Job Information
Virginia Mason Franciscan Health Medical Technologist in Silverdale, Washington
Position Duties:
Conducts pretesting and processing samples (Pre-Analytic); stains and prepares slides of specimen material for microscopic examination and evaluation; prepares chemical solutions and reagents:
- Evaluates and determines validity of test sample value(s) based on testing of quality control materials.
- Sets up and adjusts laboratory equipment and apparatus appropriate for the designated test(s).
Performs, analyzes, interprets, and confirms testing of samples (Analytic); maintains growth and virulence of cultures; observes reactions and makes/records readings of test results; keeps clinical laboratory records in accordance with established procedures:
- Requests additional specimens/samples to replace compromised material.
- Recognizes and defines testing problems and evaluates methods for their solution.
- Recognizes and addresses unexpected test reactions, errors and discrepancies; identifies technical, instrumental or physiologic causes of problems (e.g. test conditions, chemical reactions, instrument function, patient variables, interfering drugs).
- May determine solutions based on the theory of reactions on which the procedures are based and other clinical data.
- Operates complex automated analysis equipment and/or laboratory computer system to perform designated tests.
Documents and delivers test results (Post-Analytic); verifies and finalizes test results, evaluates collected laboratory data, and produces and distributes test results:
Records test data, makes statistical calculations, compares laboratory results with normal values and investigates atypical results to determine cause.
Performs quality control testing, checks normal ranges, reviews and validates results.
Provides basic consultative services regarding laboratory procedures, test results and examinations to medical staff, laboratory personnel and other healthcare providers, including answering questions within area of competence for physicians and other healthcare providers.
May suggest additional assays that could clarify or amplify the physician's diagnosis.
Applies an understanding of the standard reference methods used to check the accuracy of analytical results obtained by different methods.
Utilizes the LIS in the performance of job duties, including looking up patient information and entering testing data/results.
Reviews and interprets data analyzed and developed by laboratory personnel.
Consults with management and medical staff concerning difficult or unusual data or results.
Develops the skills of new employees and students by providing on-the-job training and orientation.