Job Description

General Purpose of Job:

Serve as the primary resource for Providers, Caregivers, and Patients regarding laboratory testing that is not performed at Sparrow Laboratories. Responsible for receiving, verifying, packaging, and sending out laboratory testing. Responsible for verifying that results completed outside of Sparrow Laboratories and accurately recorded in patients' charts and sent the appropriate providers.

Essential Duties:

This job description is intended to cover the minimum essential duties assigned on a regular basis. Caregivers may be asked to perform additional duties as assigned by their leader. Leadership has the right to alter or modify the duties of the position.

• Serve as the primary source of information regarding testing that is not performed at Sparrow Laboratories. This includes talking to Providers, Caregivers and Patients about testing options;
• Research tests to identify appropriate reference laboratories based on quality of testing, turnaround time, and cost;
• Work closely with lab leadership to identify cost savings and the most efficient reference laboratory options;
• Properly prepare specimens for testing by centrifuging, aliquoting, & labelling, adhering to published procedures & guidelines;
• Receive & sort specimens, including blood, bodily fluid, & tissue;
• Evaluate specimens for correct identification & suitability for testing;
• Properly prepare specimens for testing & use complex scientific instruments to process specimens;
• Identify and correct problems and/or errors with submitted specimens, orders, and processing on scientific instruments;
• Follow established best practices to ensure that Patients, orders, & specimens are always identified & labelled correctly;
• Prioritize work based on Patient type & sample priority;
• Prepare specimens for transport & storage, deliver appropriate specimens to designated laboratory for testing;
• Use a computer to verify sample collection information, retrieve patient test data, & enter data;
• Track specimens & work pending lists to identify incomplete tests & problems;
• Resolve problems by taking appropriate actions as dictated by the circumstances;
• Communicate effectively, & in accordance with the ICARE values, in-person, via the telephone, & via email;
• Provide instruction in laboratory technique, instrumentation, & application of laboratory test procedures to new Caregivers, students, fellows, residents & clients;
• Assist in training new Caregivers;
• Maintain inventory, replenish stock & supplies;
• Perform technical, clerical, & service duties as assigned, including (but not limited to: equipment cleaning & maintenance, emptying trash, washing dishes, taking & recording temperatures, filing & retrieving specimens, handling biohazard & chemical waste);
• Follow instructions given by Clinical Laboratory Scientists, Pathologists, & Leaders.

Job Requirements

General Requirements	* Adheres to the National Patient Safety standard of always using at least two Patient identifiers; * Adheres to the National Patient Safety standard of hand cleaning to prevent infections; * Adheres to all Laboratory safety standards & universal precautions; * Demonstrates knowledge & maintains & respects Patient right to privacy by following the HIPAA Privacy & Security policies & procedures; * Adheres to ICARE values & standards of behavior (Innovation, Compassion, Accountability, Respect, Excellence); * Role model behaviors that value the diversity of our caregivers, Patients & customers & supports creating an environment that is inclusive, welcoming & respectful; * Works in a safe manner & promptly reports any hazards identified in the work environment or related to assigned responsibilities; * Adheres to policies & procedures designed to avoid, prevent & reduce the spread of communicable diseases.
Work Experience	* Experience in Sparrow Hospital's clinical laboratory; Preferred
Education	* High school diploma or equivalent; AND * Completed two college level science courses or 1 year of laboratory experience.
Specialized Knowledge and Skills	* Ability to enter data with 95% accuracy (testing required) * Ability to read, follow directions, & perform procedures associated with specimen collection, handling & processing. * Ability to recognize problems & take corrective actions. * Ability to communicate effectively & professionally both in person & via the telephone. * Ability to work well under pressure & to handle crisis situations. * Ability to function as part of a team dedicated to Patient care. * Ability to use a keyboard as required to perform the essential duties of the job. * Ability to follow instructions. * Knowledge of anatomy & physiology; Preferred. * Familiarity with Microsoft Office products, SoftLab, Lifepoint, Epic, & WindoPath. Preferred.