Medical Laboratory Assistant - Microbiology

Job overview

Based in Microbiology at Blackpool Teaching Hospitals

Do bacteria and viruses excite you rather than repulse you? Have you ever wondered what MRSA looks like or what a fungal infection looks like under a microscope? If the answer is yes, then our friendly Microbiology team is the place for you!

In Microbiology we process a variety of patient specimens; growing organisms to diagnose infection and treat our patients quickly and efficiently. The environment is fast paced where no two days are the same.

We offer an exciting opportunity to join our close-knit Microbiology family. The environment is busy – but you will embrace this and enjoy the challenge of working to tight turnaround times and targets. You will go home after your working day and know you have made a positive difference to patients we deal with.

You will be supported in becoming fully competent in all our testing methods by our dedicated team who are extremely hard working but have fun along the way.

As with the majority of healthcare we run a 24/7 service, and have a shift system to cover out of hours working including nights, weekends and bank holidays

Our team is small, friendly and looking forward to welcoming you!

Main duties of the job

You will be working in a UKAS accredited medical laboratory – working to a high standard which is evident in the quality service we give to our patients, and ensuring the diagnosis and treatment they require.

Experience is not necessary as training is provided in all areas and your work day will vary, which is an attractive feature of the job role! From receiving specimens, to booking them on via the laboratory computer systems and processing them; this role will keep you interested and stimulated throughout the day.

You play an essential role in excellent patient care, assisting Biomedical Scientists, who identify infectious organisms and determine the best treatment.

Teamwork is important but the ability to work independently and use your initiative is a desirable attribute.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Duties to include but not be limited to:

• To receive, label, book in and prepare clinical samples: Blood Cultures, Urines, Faeces, Wound/Respiratory/Genital/MRSA screen swabs, Sputums, Tissues, Sterile/Non-sterile fluids according to department Standard Operating Procedures.
• To take part in Internal Quality Control and Internal Quality Assurance procedures related to culture media, laboratory instruments and reagents following Standard Operating Procedures.
• To ensure the correct disposal of clinical/non-clinical waste and sharps according to defined protocols including autoclaving.
• Temperature monitoring of fridges/incubators throughout the laboratory autonomously at the beginning of each day.
• Ensuring that laboratory in use stock is within date and taking part within stock disposal/rotation processes.
• To provide accurate data entry and text/data processing using the computer/data base systems.
• Responding to telephone enquires where no interpretation of results is required.
• Working autonomously and as a team where concentration is required for long periods of time.
• Effective prioritisation of tasks especially during periods of under-staffing.
• All staff are encouraged to take part in continual professional development activities.
• To undertake routine tasks in the preparation of equipment maintenance and cleaning.
• To perform duties in accordance with Trust and Directorate Health and Safety at Work Polices.
• To ensure safe handling of hazardous and infective materials according to defined protocols.
• To ensure equipment is used safely and according to manufacturer’s guidelines and faults and breakdowns are reported to senior staff.
• To ensure that a high standard of care and service is maintained to patients, members of staff and the general public in accordance with Directorate Polices.
• NOTE: When completing your application please ensure your supporting information is aligned to the essential and desirable criteria required for this role.