Cytogenetics / Laboratory Technologist: MetroHealth Medical Center

$2,000 Sign-On Bonus

Job Summary:

Provides expertise in the performance of advanced/complex laboratory preparations, examinations and analyses of chromosomes found in biological specimens in order to diagnose, and provide information for the treatment of genetic diseases, with minimal technical supervision. Follows procedural guidelines and professional standards. Ensures all testing performed adheres to departmental guidelines, safety and regulatory requirements, and quality control standards. Identifies and recommends improvements in operating procedures. Provides training to laboratory staff and residents. Cooperates with a diverse group of people and skill levels in performing daily operational tasks. Upholds the standards of the system-wide customer service program and departmental policies.

Responsibilities:

Contributes to patient safety by:

a. Providing a safe environment for patients.

b. Reporting safety concerns, errors and near misses.

c. Participating in system improvement initiatives to prevent errors.

d. Providing evidence-based care as applicable to the role.

1. Performs a variety of cytogenetic tests and procedures of high complexity, following procedural guidelines and professional standards by:

a. Ensuring patient identity, sample integrity, and appropriate sample processing, including: centrifuging, labeling, aliquoting and delivering specimens to proper locations with in the department of pathology.

b. Preparing specimen for cell culture and performs harvesting procedures.

c. Preparing slides and makes microscopic evaluations of chromosome number and morphology.

d. Utilizing microscopy, photomicroscopy, computer image analysis, and karyotyping to analyze specimens.

e. Utilizing fluorescent-labeled DNA to detect chromosome abnormalities, which includes fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH).

f. Verifying test results; initiating appropriate corrective action and developing resolution of test result discrepancies.

g. Maintaining knowledge of nomenclature to identify normal or abnormal chromosomes and applies this knowledge appropriately.

h. Applying judgement, knowledge and standard genetics laboratory practices to collate and interpret all facets of the results of cytogenetic studies without compromising turnaround time or quality outcome.

i. Demonstrating familiarity with the quality control programs, the assay procedures and the flow of specimens and data within the Cytogenetics department.

j. Applying meticulous detail to record keeping and documentation

k. Reporting panic/alert/delta and other values that require physician notification values according to department protocol. Communicating test results and other relevant information to authorized sources in a professional manner.

l. Operating equipment and instruments, trouble-shooting, and resolving instrument problems as required. Initiating a call to technical support and service if needed.

m. Performing and documenting required preventative maintenance of equipment, instrumentation and to minimize testing delays; documenting related problems and communicating to supervisor.

n. Operating peripheral computer equipment, Health Information System/Laboratory Information System (HIS/LIS), and instrument specific computer equipment.

o. Training laboratory staff and residents as needed.

p. Ensuring all performed testing adheres to departmental guidelines, safety and regulatory requirements and quality control standards. Identifying and recommending improvements in operating procedures.

q. Following established guidelines for sample and requisition storage, allowing for rapid retrieval.

.

2. Provides backup support to other ancillary areas of Pathology, such as, but not limited to: central processing, phlebotomy, surgical grossing, etc.

3. Participates in the development, maintenance and enhancement of the quality control and quality assurance programs. Identifies and recommends improvements as needed.

4. Monitors inventory levels of laboratory supplies, initials inventory control records; reports status to supervisor. Maintains well-organized, stocked and clean work area.

5. Keeps abreast of standard genetics laboratory trends, developments and practices participating in continuing education courses and reading current literature. Participates in hospital required education programs such as fires safety, chemical right to know, etc. Develops and presents continuing education programs as required.

6. Performs other functionally related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Required:

Bachelor of Science with 2 years of recent medical laboratory experience in a full service Cytogenetics Laboratory.

Registered MT/ASCP or registry-eligible Medical Technologist.

Registry-eligible consists of:

q Completion of a NCCLS approved program or 10 years of relevant Laboratory experience. Successful completion and notification of MHMC of a passing score on a certification exam (categories listed above) within 6 months of hire is required for continued employment.

q If registry cycle is greater than 6 months, notification of successful completion must occur one month after the next available registry date for continued employment.

Experience with laboratory equipment and computer systems.

Must have good interpersonal and communication skills.

Preferred:

CLSp(CG) certified