Medical Laboratory Assistant

Job overview

We are inviting applications from motivated and passionate candidates to join our friendly and hardworking team in Specimen Reception department at West Suffolk Hospital Pathology department.

Candidates should have a minimum of GCSE Mathematics and English or equivalent.

This is an opportunity to join a friendly, well-motivated team and we would encourage you to contact us to discuss the post further.

This role involves the handling, receipt and distribution of pathology samples, as well as general laboratory and clerical duties.

The work is interesting and varied and there is an emphasis on accuracy and attention to detail.

Experience of computer systems and telephone enquires is desirable.

Previous laboratory experience or data entry would also be an advantage but is not necessary as full training will be given.

Training and competency assessment will be undertaken with an expectation for the candidate to participate in the shift rota including evening , weekend, nights and bank holiday working.

Main duties of the job

The successful candidate will be part of the team receiving samples and preparing them for analysis. Preparation involves labelling and entering on to the computer system.

A small amount of maintenance on the analysers will be expected - full training will be given. You will be performing these tasks, with associate practitioners and biomedical scientists performing more complex tasks.

Attention to detail and manual dexterity are necessary skills.

The role involves a work pattern covering 24hrs a day including weekends, late shifts, day shifts and night work.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Please see job description for full details.

Technical and scientific:

• Under supervision, perform a range of manual, semi-automated and fully automated laboratory investigations accurately and efficiently.
• Responsible for sample receipt, numbering and data entry on to the computer system. Use own judgement to identify, action and report mislabelled or mislaid specimens, unsuitable sample or process failure.
• Supports quality control processes.
• Participate in the day to day management of stock control and usage.
• Assist in the introduction of new techniques.
• Clean and maintain equipment to achieve the optimum instrument performance and maintain a clean and safe working environment.
• Report any equipment faults to a biomedical scientist.
• Participate in processing samples for Research and Development, clinical trials and equipment testing.

Communication:

• Communicates with colleagues and clinicians, e.g. provides test results by telephone as appropriate.
• Undertake reception duties, including communication with patients.

Information resources:

• Records test results/maintains integrity, accuracy of laboratory data, including data entered by self.
• Be able to record test results on the computer and manual systems in accordance with agreed standard operating procedures.
• To ensure patient confidentiality and conformance to Data Protection Act and Caldicott Guidelines.
• Be able to use Laboratory Information system, email, internet and automated operating systems, and other software packages as required.