Job Description

General Purpose of Job:

Assist Pathologists with providing accurate & timely surgical and non-gynecological results to Physicians & Patients. Prepare & process samples for testing.

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.

• Assess specimens for proper collection & fixation and take corrective action as necessary;
• Research and interpret information from Patient charts to insure appropriate laboratory processing;
• Provide gross descriptions of non-gynecological specimens for medical reports;
• Accession test requests, including Patient demographics, insurance information, & other required data accurately & in a timely fashion;
• Receive, sort & prepare surgical and non-gynecological specimens for testing, including 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 section 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 Pathology Assistants, 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	see education
Education	* High school diploma or equivalent; AND * Completed two college level science courses or 1 year of laboratory experience. * Recent completion of a course in Medical Terminology or completion within 60 days following employment.
Specialized Knowledge and Skills	* 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.