Laboratory Lead-General

Responsible, under the direction of a Pathologist and the Manager, for assuring good laboratory practice for assigned pre-analytic, analytic, and post analytic laboratory workflows, specifically those processes related to sample handling/retention, quality control, testing and result reporting. Responsibilities include: 1) lean process improvement, 2) regulatory and accreditation compliance, 3) inspection readiness, and 4) equipment, supplies and document management.

Why UnityPoint Health?

• Culture – At UnityPoint Health, you matter. Come for a fulfilling career and experience  a culture  guided by uncompromising values and unwavering belief in doing what's right for the people we serve.
• Benefits – Our competitive  Total Rewards  program offers benefits options like 401K match, paid time off and education assistance that align with your needs and priorities, no matter what life stage you’re in.
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Commitment – We’re committed to ensuring you have a voice that is heard regardless of role, race, gender, religion, or sexual orientation.
• Development – We believe equipping you with support and  development opportunities  is an essential part of delivering a remarkable employment experience.
• Community Involvement – Be an essential part of our core purpose—to improve the health of the people and communities we serve.

Hear more from our team members about why UnityPoint Health is a great place to work at  https://dayinthelife.unitypoint.org .

Exceptional Care Delivery

• Greets everyone with a pleasant and professional manner, using patient experience best practice guidelines (AIDET, 5/10 Rule and No-Point, etc).
• Identifies patients and samples using two patient identifiers, always labeling samples in the presence of the patient.
• Performs venous and capillary blood collections independently for patients of all ages within specified safety parameters, timelines and pace.
• Performs sample processing, aliquoting, and preparation for transport.
• Actively shares knowledge of computer programs and systems for patient identification, order, sample tracking and reporting test results.
• Role models the use of supply items in a cost-effective manner, recognizing when to reorder and assisting with unpacking and/or restocking items consistent with Kanban workflows.
• Participates in maintenance of process control activities and audits documentation for completeness.
• Assists in developing and assuring the continuing effectiveness of all technical, clerical and quality improvement activities of assigned workflows. These activities include, staff training, troubleshooting, procedure updating, and quality assurance.
• Assists with development of the competency assessment program to ensure a properly functioning process that meets regulatory requirements.

Committed Team

• Accountable to the clinical workload and may be scheduled for administrative duties at the discretion of a Manager.
• Assists Laboratory Managers in the day to day operations of the clinical departments.
• Communicates clearly, openly and consistently with management and team members to assure common access to hospital and department information to promote trust and confidence.
• Prioritizes work in the best interest of the patient, sharing the work with team members.
• Assists with training new employees and students, being helpful and supportive in their teaching.
• Leads department huddles and attends staff meetings and other required training.

Checks emails regularly for huddle minutes and important communications relevant to assignment.

• High School diploma or equivalent
• At least one year of clinical laboratory or similar healthcare experience
• Phlebotomy Technician (American Society for Clinical Pathology) (ASCP) or Medical Laboratory Assistant (American Society for Clinical Pathology) certified or equivalent upon hire, or within twelve months of employment and/or eligibility. Exam eligible candidates must attempt the exam within nine months of hire to allow time for retesting if needed within the twelve-month timeframe.
• Must maintain active certification throughout employment.
• Writes, reads, comprehends and speaks fluent English.
• Multicultural sensitivity.
• Microsoft Office – basic computer skills.
• Customer/patient focused.
• Critical thinking skills using independent judgment in making decisions.
• Demonstrates and actively shares knowledge of computer programs and systems for patient identification, order, sample tracking.
• Achieves mastery of the key processes and procedures with assigned oversite.
• Achieves advanced understanding of lab tests to answer team member and provider questions in a way that assures mutual understanding.
• Continually improves the work performance of self/others by proactively applying new knowledge/skills and training and/or supporting others within or outside the department.
• Demonstrates knowledge that patient and workplace safety is a priority by preventing errors, accidents and infections and reporting potential or actual concerns immediately.
• Use of usual and customary equipment used to perform essential functions of the position.