1) Demonstrate knowledge of all aspects of a given assay, including such concepts as analytical theory, quality control evaluation, reference ranges, critical values, clinical significance of the assay, instrumentation used, reagent stability, calibration, etc.
2) Demonstrate the ability to write laboratory procedures that conform to CLSI, CLIA, and CAP standards. Ensures that all staff in the section have read and understand all applicable procedures and /or revisions.
3) Performs testing according to laboratory procedures with acceptable accuracy and precision. Performs a high degree of skills with regards to analytical instrumentation, including operation, troubleshooting, and maintenance procedures.
4) As requested, in conjunction with the medical Director and Laboratory Manager, develops and/or evaluates new tests and methods including statistical testing, reagent issues, test codes, LIS issues, staff training, etc. Makes recommendation about implementation of these procedures.
5) Miscellaneous duties as required on a daily basis:
5.1 Perform testing on instruments depending on staffing
5.2 Available to cover benches throughout shift
6) Develops instrumentation maintenance schedule and protocol. Performs
Instrument maintenance according to schedule including documentation. Provides assistance to others when delays occur. Recognizes need for unscheduled maintenance before problem occur.
7) Demonstrates comprehensive knowledge of instrument operation including
routine and STAT modes (if any), menu options, response to error flags, and identification of instrument components. Recognizes instrument problems when they occur by responding to instrument alarms, error flags, and quality control problems. Initiates troubleshooting procedures in a systematic manner.
8) Independently evaluates results for acceptability based on proper instrument
Operation, plausibility of results, previous patient data; alerts supervisor of discrepancies. Initiates response to unusual results. Documents problems.
9) Follows established quality control procedures, evaluates acceptability of results;
Documents response to outliers and demonstrates advanced knowledge of quality control rules. Assists others in solving complex quality control problems.
10) Helps oversee the CAP Proficiency Testing program for the laboratory section,
to ensure that PT samples are tested in a timely fashion and in a manner that is compliant with regulatory requirements; completes CAP action reports for all results that exceed two standard deviations from the peer group mean; investigates outliers and shifts/trends for possible corrective actions.
11) Ensures that the laboratory section is in compliance with all items on the current CAP inspection checklist.
12) Demonstrates knowledge of general laboratory policies and procedures for quality control monitoring of equipment including temperature checks, pipette calibration, general equipment maintenance and documentation.
13) Has excellent communication skills. Effectively communicates with the staff in a
clear and concise manner. Encourages and elicits feedback from staff on work process improvement. Communicates well with other members of the Hospital staff, including physicians, nurses, managers, and supervisors of other departments. Effectively communicates pertinent issues to the Laboratory Manager.
14) Participates in continuing education and professional enrichment.
15) Demonstrates sensitivity to needs of co-workers and patients by monitoring adherence to policies governing confidentiality.
16) Accepts constructive criticism in a positive manner and takes immediate corrective action to improve performance when needed.
17) Emotional maturity is exhibited on a consistent basis; controls anger in difficult situations, and remains calm during stressful occasions.