NI-Specimen Control & Receiving Technician

J  o  b    D  e  s  c  r  i  p  t  i  o  n

JOB INFORMATION

Effective Date:

11/6/2024

Entity:

Illinois

Job Code:

NI-7246AC

Job Title:

NI-Specimen Control & Receiving Technician

Exemption Status:

Non-Exempt

JOB SUMMARY

The UW Health Specimen Control & Receiving Technician is responsible for receiving specimens and research kits into the laboratory, checking specimens and requisitions for correct labeling and appropriateness, entering tests into the Laboratory Information System, processing specimens, directing them to the appropriate workstation, technologist, or storage area. In addition, the Technician is also responsible for daily checklist duties and clerical duties (filing, mailing, faxing).

Problems encountered are of a moderate degree of complexity but may require innovation because reference sources and subject matter experts are not always readily available.

Depending on the laboratory, the incumbent may interact daily with pathologists, residents, physicians, technologists, clinical staff, nursing unit personnel, couriers, outside clients and patients.  Decisions are made in consultation with technical staff or the Laboratory Manager.  This position operates under general supervision and requires a high degree of organizational skill and ability to multi-task.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

•

Receive specimens and carefully check paperwork for accuracy and completeness, including documentation of medical necessity. Contact ordering source if any information is incomplete.

•

Monitor specimen identification using the laboratory’s specimen identification policies. Resolve problems and complete documentation as required.

•

Process test requests with accompanying specimens and enter orders as required. Use established policies and procedures for specimen acceptability and troubleshoot or clarify questions regarding specimen integrity.

•

Process specimen using established policies and procedures.

•

Prepare and return blood components and tissues following patient and product identification procedures.

•

Troubleshoot laboratory’s defined equipment and document system error codes.

•

Respond to telephone and computer requests regarding add on tests, patient results, availability of products, and department procedures. Refer calls to medical technologists/medical laboratory technicians when appropriate.

•

Practice universal safety precautions according to Infection Control policy and procedures at all times (e.g. use of gloves, lab coat, and other Personal Protective Equipment).

•

Monitor internal and external lab test work queues and results, as applicable.

•

Retrieve lab computer reports as necessary.

•

Operate pneumatic tube system as needed.

•

Complete daily checklists, restock, and order supplies as necessary.

•

Perform routine equipment maintenance, including decontamination and cleaning, as required.

•

Answer laboratory door, provide direction to the visitor.

•

Train other laboratory staff, students, and other healthcare professionals within the scope of their responsibilities.

•

Communicate training needs and materials to manager.

ALL DUTIES AND REQUIREMENTS MUST BE PERFORMED CONSISTENT WITH THE UW HEALTH PERFORMANCE STANDARDS.

X

Non-Clinical

JOB REQUIREMENTS

High School Diploma

or equivalent.

Required

Some post-secondary education in a healthcare or a related science field that may include course work in Medical Laboratory Technician, Cytotechnologist, Histotechnician or Medical Laboratory Scientist degree/certification.

Preferred

6 months

healthcare or laboratory related work experience.

Required

1 year

healthcare or laboratory related work experience.

Preferred

PBT(ASCP) Certification. 

Preferred

•

High level communication skills and the ability to maintain good interpersonal relationships with co-workers and clients.

•

Ability to organize and prioritize work.

•

Competence in problem identification and resolution.

•

Ability to work independently.

•

Knowledge of laboratory medicine and universal precautions preferred.

•

Knowledge of medical terminology preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORKING CONDITIONS

Standing

X

Walking

X

Climbing

X

Bending

X

Crouching

X

Pushing / Pulling

X

Carry

X

Fine Hand / Eye Coordination

X

Color Discrimination

X

Hearing Ability

X

Lifting / Lowering 1 -15 lbs.

X

15 - 30 lbs.

X

30 - 50 lbs.

X

Over 50 lbs.

UW Health does not require, nor does it expect that its employees lift more than 50 lbs unassisted. Objects in excess of 50 lbs should be lifted or moved with mechanical means or through a team lift. Employees in patient care areas are expected to utilize mechanical lifts and adhere to the "Use of Mechanical Lifts (Liko)" policy in the Patient Services Policy and Procedure Manual.

Concentration on Detail

X

Attention Span of 1 + Hours on a Task

X

Ability to Remember Multiple Tasks

X

Oral Communication

X

Written Communication

X

Exposure to Blood and Body Fluids

X

Exposure to Toxins, Cytotoxins, Poisons

X

Exposure to Extreme Heat, Cold, Temp Fluctuations

X

Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals

X

Exposure to Radiation

X

Other - Working with patients in crisis who may be volatile and potentially violent.

Note: The purpose of this document is to describe the general nature and level of work performed by personnel so classified; it is not intended to serve as an inclusive list of all responsibilities associated with this position.