Laboratory Technician

**Job Description: Laboratory Technician**

**Mission**:
The mission of Laboratory Technicians is to uphold the highest standards of quality and accuracy in the management and analysis of patient samples. The responsibilities includes handling of every sample from receipt to reporting, ensuring each phase of the process is executed with precision and integrity. The person in this role is required to maintain a secure, organized, and safe working environment, and continuously striving to improve our customer satisfaction.

**Sample Management**

1. Check each sample upon receipt for correct and complete labeling including patient name, date of collection, and type of sample. Verify accompanying requisition forms for essential clinical information and tests requested. Record receipt in the laboratory information system (LIS) ensuring each sample is accurately logged.

2. Identify samples that do not meet acceptance criteria (mislabeling, insufficient volume, degradation). Document the reason for rejection in the LIS and notify the sender with a rejection note explaining necessary corrective actions. Store rejected samples appropriately or dispose of them following laboratory safety guidelines.

3. Manage the barcoding using the LIS. Measure the volume if not visually ascertainable. Record any discrepancies in the LIS.

4. Visually inspect each sample for signs of clotting or hemolysis. Document the condition of samples and process accordingly.

5. Organize samples by testing priority and compatibility with analytical equipment. Load samples into analyzers, ensuring that they are correctly placed according to the machine's specifications.

**Results Handling**

1. Review test results in comparison with reference values, considering patient history and clinical indicators. Utilize LIS to identify abnormal results needing urgent attention.

2. Identify results that require rechecking either due to internal flags or critical value thresholds. Perform necessary repeats or confirmatory tests.

3. Log all AMR findings and corrective actions taken in response to equipment or procedural failures. Immediately report any test results that fall within panic value ranges to the relevant healthcare provider.

4. Compare current results with previous data to check for consistency and accuracy, especially in chronic cases. Ensure all results are validated through Consultants and Secondary checks before finalizing the report.

5. Continuously monitor the progress of tests to identify any that are overdue. Document reasons for delays and implement corrective measures to maintain or improve TAT.

**Reagents and Instruments Management**

1. Perform start-up checks and calibrations on all instruments. Clean and maintain the working condition of all equipment surfaces and interfaces.

2. Schedule and conduct thorough inspections and functionality tests of all equipment. Document all maintenance activities in the log book with details of actions taken and observations. Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) for each instrument's operation.

3. Regularly assess stock levels of reagents and consumables; reorder before reaching critical low levels.

4. Check deliveries of new stocks against orders and store reagents according to manufacturer instructions to maintain efficacy.

**Workplace Housekeeping, Safety & Security**

1. Implement daily cleaning schedules for all laboratory areas, focusing on disinfection of high-touch areas. Ensure proper disposal of all laboratory waste in designated containers.

2. Conduct regular safety audits and update emergency response procedures as necessary.