This vacancy may be closed early if sufficient number of applications are received.

Medical Laboratory Assistants work as part of a team supporting the Biomedical Scientific staff in the effective provision of the blood science service. Biomedical Scientists analyse blood, body fluids, tissues and cells to determine the presence or absence of abnormal pathology. This information can then be used to enable diagnosis and also monitor the effectiveness of treatment.

The main role of the MLA is divided into laboratory and specimen reception duties with the latter consisting of the receiving and sorting of specimens, including the checking of data for accuracy and information given. Repackaging of send away specimens between sites or to referral centres will also be expected.

Our vision is to provide outstanding care for every patient. Patient care is at the heart of what we do at our three sites: Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital, Royal Hampshire County Hospital in Winchester and Andover War Memorial Hospital. Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust provides medical and surgical services to a population of approximately 600,000 people across Hampshire and parts of West Berkshire.

Our cultural ambition is to have a culture that places people at the heart of all we do, where we all belong, and where learning, improvement and excellence thrive.

We provide specialist services to people across the UK and internationally. We are one of only two centres in the UK treating pseudomyxoma peritonei (a rare form of abdominal cancer) and we are leaders in the field of tertiary liver cancer and colorectal cancer.

The trust employs more than 9,000 staff and has a turnover of over £500 million a year. As a Foundation Trust, we are directly accountable to our members through the governors. The Council of Governors represent the interests of their constituencies and influence the future plans of the Foundation Trust.

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After training, MLAs will be required to carry out a range of laboratory procedures including maintenance and operation of Preanalytical systems (Roche 8100 Track) and loading of samples onto Roche 8000 lines.

The post holder will also be required to work as part of the administration team entering patient data from request forms onto the host laboratory computer and answering telephone enquiries to the lab as required.

Under the supervision of a State Registered Biomedical Scientist

To undertake a range of laboratory procedures to help maintain and operate equipment with minimal supervision.

To adhere strictly to standard operating procedures (SOP’s) used within the laboratory, drawing the attention of Biomedical Scientists to any issues identified with the pre analytical workflow.

To monitor the operation and assist in the maintenance of selected laboratory equipment as defined in the health and safety policy.

The operation of laboratory equipment adhering to set protocols and procedures

To plan and organise their work within the demands of the team, assisting new staff to become fully informed of the routine laboratory procedures performed by MLA’s.

The reception and sorting of specimens according to laboratory protocols ensuring unlabelled or incorrectly taken samples are identifies and appropriate action taken.

Receive uniquely identify, label and prepare samples analysis

The cleaning, sterilisation or disinfection of work areas and equipment.

The safe disposal of specimens, solutions, glass and confidential waste in accordance with department policy and Health and Safety regulations.

To perform the re-packaging and sending of samples away for referral analysis.

To advise Biomedical Scientists when stocks of reagents and consumables are approaching minimum stock levels.

To enter patient data into the departmental computer system. Maintaining accurate patient data files

Perform general office duties, including sorting, photocopying and filing as required.

To work flexibly to provide a service that is in the best interests of the department.

Conform to departmental policies and procedures, confidentiality and security.

Information technology and equipment.

Be able to use the Hospital Information system within Trust protocols and guidelines.

To use and search other data bases for patient information in response to enquiries.

Environment and location

Frequent exposure to unpleasant blood, body fluids and other biological material that are potentially infective with pathogenic micro-organisms and viruses

To wear the personnel protective clothing whenever appropriate.

Light lifting and carrying will be required including using stairs during the transport of chemicals, reagents and samples.

Health and safety

Maintain and promote high standards of health and safety at work.

Conform to policies and protocols of Manual Handling, Health & Safety, COSHH regulations.