Medical Laboratory Assistant – Sample Reception

Job summary This post is only open for applications for individuals employed within the Hampshire and Isle of Wight NHS Care SystemOrganisations within scope are as follows:Hampshire and Isle of Wight Integrated Care BoardSouthern Health Foundation TrustPortsmouth Hospitals University NHS TrustUniversity Hospital SouthamptonSolent NHS TrustSouth Central Ambulance ServiceIsle of Wight NHS TrustHampshire HospitalsBlood Sciences is looking for a part time Medical Laboratory Assistant to work in the busy Sample Reception area at Queen Alexandra Hospital.The Department of Blood Sciences provides a comprehensive Haematology and Biochemistry service to the local population and a range of specialised services to a wider area. We aim to provide a user friendly, efficient and timely service to allow clinical decisions regarding the diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of disease to be made rapidly. We have a team of clinical staff with an extremely wide range of experience and knowledge readily available to provide interpretation and advice on patient's blood test results.The staff in Sample Reception provide essential support to all Pathology departments but more closely with Blood Sciences. Sample Reception staff are responsible for the receipt and preparation of blood samples including all pre analytical checks. Main duties of the job As a Medical Laboratory Assistant in Sample Reception you will handle these tasks: taking receipt of deliveries of Pathology specimens for distribution to all Pathology departments, dealing with patients blood test requests and ensuring all samples are labelled with a unique identifier, the data entry of patients confidential details, dealing with some telephone enquiries and visitors delivering specimens to the department. This role would suit a motivated, caring and dedicated person. The role does include some physical tasks, for example the sorting of all Pathology specimens is completed while standing, so an interest in fitness would be an advantage.Applicants must have good typing skills and should experience with data input and a good telephone manner. GCSE or equivalent Maths and English C grade or above is essential. A background in science subjects to GCSE level and experience in using computers would be an advantage as would previous experience of working in a Clinical/Medical Laboratory. If you have passion for working together for patients within a non-clinical role then working in the Blood Sciences, Sample Reception department is a great place to make a positive difference to the patient experience. About us Here at Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust, we are proud to provide expert, compassionate care for our local population. We are ranked as the third in the country for research, embedding education and training across the organisation. Our main hub is the Queen Alexandra Hospital, which is one of the largest hospitals on the south coast employing over 8,700 staff.Our patients come from all walks of life and so do we. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds because it makes our hospital stronger. If you share our values and our enthusiasm for getting it right for patients, colleagues, and our community, you will find a home at Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust. Job description Job responsibilities Receive patient samples and request forms according to departmental procedure, including entry of patient requests into the laboratory information system and loading analytical systemsMonitor and maintain basic laboratory equipment for example centrifuges, fridges and freezersPerform basic laboratory techniques as applicable, for example specified analyser maintenance and reagent preparationEnsure adequate supplies of laboratory consumables and process deliveries of goods accordinglyStore, retrieve and dispose of samples in accordance with departmental proceduresRespond to telephone and face-to-face enquiries in a polite and efficient mannerContribute to the work of the laboratory as an effective team member, following all relevant policies and proceduresMonitor, promote and adhere to Trust and Departmental Health and Safety requirements including correct disposal of waste and control of infection hazardAdhere to all relevant Blood Sciences Quality StandardsParticipate in Annual Personal Development Review (APDR) and undergo any professional development requirements, including statutory and mandatory training requirementsSupport the development of other staff as requiredIf working in Haematology, the MLA may be required to attend Bone Marrow Biopsies, where they would be trained to assist the Haematology Consultants passing them the equipment and preparing slides of the biopsy at the bedside Person Specification Experience Essential Experience with electronic handling of data Fluent and accurate keyboard skills Desirable Previous laboratory or administrative experience Skills and Knowledge Essential Evidence of ability to work using own initiative and without supervision Good verbal and written communication skills Demonstration of manual dexterity through previous employment/interests Previous telephone/customer care skills Conscientious, methodical approach to duties Qualifications Essential GCSE or equivalent level of education including English Language