Healthcare Science Assistant

Sample Preparation

1. Receive and sort pathology samples.

2. Distribute samples to departments.

3. Label samples and prepare them for analysis.

4. Record and inform service users and senior staff of requests received that do not comply with the Specimen Acceptance Criteria

Data Handling

1. Enter data onto the laboratory computer system.

Housekeeping and Maintenance Tasks

1. Dispose of clinical and non-clinical waste in accordance with Trust and departmental policies

2. Clean and decontaminate working areas and equipment in accordance with laboratory protocols and record such actions.

3. Maintain adequate stocks of consumables and ensure any stock is stored in a timely manner.

Communication

1. Communicate with a limited range of Trust staff in person, eg passing of information to colleagues within Pathology

2. Be expected to communicate in a pleasant and caring manner at all times whilst maintaining confidentiality.

3. Attend department meetings as required, to ensure an awareness of developments within the work area.

4. Maintain an effective communication network; verbal, written and electronic, keeping registered practitioners informed.

5. Assist in maintaining, recording and storing information, including patient records, in line with Trust policy.

Training and Development

1. Training is provided.

2. Be trained to have a working knowledge of all health and safety procedures

3. Participate in the appraisal process and, as part of the appraisal, in discussion with the line manager, develop an annual Personal Development Plan to identify training and development needs in line with personal and organisational objectives

4. Develop own skills and knowledge.

5. Attend mandatory training as directed.

6. Assist in the training of new staff when required.

Organisational Responsibilities

1. General clerical and administrative duties including scanning request forms, photocopying, filing and shredding confidential waste.

Professional Responsibilities

1. Maintain confidentiality at all times, ensuring information is only divulged to authorised sources and by appropriate means.

2. Exercise independent judgement and initiative by taking appropriate action to resolve any problems when they arise.

3. Ensure compliance with policies, procedures and clinical guidelines for self and others.