"Specimen Processing Technician"

Specimen Processing Technician

The Specimen Processing Technician I processes, distributes, and provides quality assurance for all patient specimens. Supplies accurate information to providers and other clinical staff regarding laboratory testing, test requirements and patient results.

Hours will be from 10:00am - 6:30pm, Monday through Friday with rotating weekends.

Responsibilities:

• Performs pre-analytical specimen processing: Receives patient specimens from within the institute and outside institutions.
• Becomes familiar with patient and specimen requirements; stores and transports specimens according to procedures; ensure specimen integrity is preserved at all times.
• Unloads and loads the pneumatic tube system and accurately distributes specimens; does routine and stat specimen delivery runs to BWH laboratories; does specimen pickup runs from clinic locations at DFCI.
• Receives specimens into the Laboratory Information System (LIS) by scanning barcodes or manual entry.
• Verifies upon receipt that all samples are labeled according to policy and addresses variances according to policies.
• Documents in the LIS any specimen or test cancellations per policy; contacts the appropriate provider or reference laboratories with questions regarding discrepancies with test orders or specimen containers.
• Processes add on tests according to policy.
• Processes tests sent out to reference laboratories; communicates with reference labs as needed.
• Processes specimens by loading the pre-analytic automation system or via centrifugation, aliquoting, storing, and shipping per test requirements.
• Performs various quality checks to ensure all requests are accurate before dispensing the specimens to the appropriate performing lab.
• Responds to telephone inquiries to assist providers, nurses and other caregivers with lab test, test requirement and result inquiries.
• Performs all duties with accuracy and efficiency to ensure patient care is not compromised.
• Utilizes electronic system for faxed tests results from reference laboratories.
• Reviews pending lists as required; addresses and corrects discrepancies or pending test results by contacting the reference lab and the provider as necessary.
• Processes bone marrows orders and specimens.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

High School diploma required. 0 years of experience required.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience in a healthcare or laboratory setting preferred. AS or BS in a physical science preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Develops knowledge to accurately and efficiently ensure all test requests are in the LIS.
• Understands lab safety policy and procedures and Department of Transportation specimen shipping regulations.
• Develops understanding of specimen processing for all specimen types.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, including phone etiquette; customer service skills.
• Basic proficiency in computer skills - able to perform essential tasks such as using a keyboard and mouse, navigating the operating system, managing files and folders, and using basic software applications like word processors and web browsers.
• Computer skills.
• Ability to work well in a heavily team-oriented environment.
• Ability to work efficiently and effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Capacity to remain flexible and multitask is key.