Associate Practitioner

Job overview

The pathology departments at NTH and STH are working collaboratively to develop a joint service with services being delivered on both hospital sites. This will require cross site working as appropriate

An exciting opportunity has arisen for 2   Associate Practitioner's working  37.5 and 28.5 hours per week  per week.

Associate Practitioners provide a support function to Biomedical Scientists by performing a range of routine laboratory techniques according to protocols.

A Foundation Degree (Healthcare Practice) or equivalent is essential as is a basic understanding of human biology and medical terminology and proven experience of working in a laboratory.

Good communications skills, teamwork and an aptitude for problem solving are essential, as is a flexible attitude to work and willingness to adapt to changes in working practice.

The department has full UKAS accreditation and IBMS training approval. CPD is actively encouraged. The department operates between 07.00 - 18.00. Monday to Friday with a 1 in 5 Saturday rota. The post holder is expected to work flexibly within these hours, with the possibility of extended working in the future.

Please note  - This post may close once sufficient applications are received

Main duties of the job

Under direction of the Pathology Management Team and Cellular Pathology Senior Biomedical Scientist(s), the post holder will be required to provide a support function to Biomedical Scientists by performing a range of routine laboratory tasks according to protocols. In addition, the post holder will be required to use practical skills to carry out tasks associated with analysis which are more advanced than those of a Medical Laboratory Assistant. You will have the skills necessary to contribute towards the provision of an accurate and timely service for patients. You will be expected to acquire technical knowledge including specialised knowledge of complex instruments and test principles to support BMS staff.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Competently deal with all sample types received into the department including those which may carry transmissible infection risks and follow the appropriate protocols for handling such specimens

Triage specimens ensuring urgent specimens are prioritised and inadequate and mis-labelled specimens are identified in accordance with departmental policies and procedures

Accurately record specimen dissection descriptions and subsequent update of computerised patient records

Participate in the storing, retrieving and disposal of specimens and specimen records in accordance with legislation, policies and procedures

Undertake “house-keeping” duties as necessary including cleaning, basic maintenance of equipment and support the maintenance of stock levels

Support dispatch of samples to other laboratories which may have complex requirements