SUMMARY:

Under the general supervision of the Pathology Manager and in accordance with Hospital and department policies and procedures, performs a variety of duties to provide for pre-analytical specimen processing, patient registration, test ordering and specimen distribution within laboratories. Performa a variety of functions on laboratory and hospital computer systems.

Brown University Health employees are expected to successfully role model the organization's values of Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence as these values guide our everyday actions with patients, customers and one another.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Receives specimens for pre-analytical processing (i.e., spinning of bloods, aliquoting of samples, patient registration, test ordering, generating bar code labels, verifying proper labeling of specimens, specimen distribution within laboratories and result inquiry.) Maintains logbooks and similar documents as required.

In conjunction with technologist, checks specimens to identify any requiring special handling or processing due to specimen requirements, testing procedures, sample condition and/or patient diagnosis.

Contacts patient care units, departments and physician offices as necessary to clarify testing requests, to notify of samples needing to be redrawn, to prioritize tests to be run if specimen quantity is insufficient for tests requested. Answers central telephone line for laboratories. Resolves issues and answers questions within the scope of authority or directs to appropriate person after assimilating sufficient background information. Responds to general and specific inquiries related to patient specimen and culture reports and availability of test procedure. Assists with both verbal and faxing of test results. Responds to and assists in tracking and resolution of lab related problems and concerns requiring knowledge of various laboratory procedures, practices and specimen handling requirements.

Accepts and prepares transfer packing lists between affiliate hospitals.

Receives test results from laboratory sections. Phones patient care units or physician offices with “stat” laboratory results.

Prepares and maintains detailed records of lab procedure requests and results; enters ICD-9 coding in Brown University Health computer system, Laboratory Information System (LIS) and/or Health Information System (HIS), submitting appropriate forms to update physician information in computer system and maintaining inventory and working stock.

Maintains subject/data confidentiality by adhering to Brown University Health’s Confidentiality Policy.

Performs all duties in a timely manner.

Maintains quality assurance, safety, environmental, and infection control in accordance with established hospital department policies, procedures, and objectives.

Performs other related duties, as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
 

Level of knowledge normally acquired through completion of high school with course work in Biology and Chemistry.

Applies standard precautions. Organizational and clerical skills to maintain a variety of logs and records. Computer skills.

Ability to track and assist in resolution of problems and concerns when answering central telephone line. Interpersonal and communication skills to exchange factual information with physicians, nurses, external laboratories, etc., regarding laboratory services, test results and test procedures.

EXPERIENCE:

One year experience performing similar duties successfully in another institution or one year on-the-job training under supervision at The Miriam Hospital.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Sits, stands and walks intermittently throughout the day. May be exposed to odors, chemicals, and infectious materials when handling laboratory specimens. Hazards are minimized by following established universal precautionary procedures.

Pay Range:

EEO Statement:

Brown University Health is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and maintaining a work environment free from all forms of unlawful discrimination and harassment.

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Driving Required: