Medical Laboratory Scientist - Blood Banks

Job Description

Job Purpose:

The Medical Laboratory Scientist – Blood Banks is responsible for performing a wide range of laboratory procedures and testing focused on blood and blood products, ensuring safe transfusion practices and compliance with regulatory standards. The role holder will also be responsible for blood component preparation (e.g., red blood cell concentrates, platelets, plasma), blood typing and crossmatching, quality control testing, and maintaining accurate and comprehensive records.

Blood Bank Operations and Testing:

• Perform ABO and Rh typing, antibody screening, and cross-matching to ensure compatibility between donors and recipients.
• Investigate and resolve blood group discrepancies or unexpected antibody reactions.
• Analyse post-transfusion samples to identify adverse reactions.
• Report findings to the clinical team and provide recommendations for further management.
• Conduct advanced serological tests to identify and characterize alloantibodies or autoantibodies.
• Evaluate rare or complex serological cases using specialized techniques.

Blood Product Management:

• Maintain optimal levels of blood products, including whole blood, red cells, platelets, and plasma.
• Monitor expiration dates and ensure proper storage conditions according to regulatory standards.
• Ensure all blood products are correctly processed, labeled, and documented in compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Perform quality control checks on processed units.
• Handle specialized preparations such as irradiation or washing of blood products.

Quality Assurance and Regulatory Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with guidelines from regulatory bodies such as the FDA, AABB, CAP, or equivalent.
• Maintain accurate documentation and records for inspections and audits.
• Regularly calibrate, maintain, and validate laboratory equipment and reagents.
• Participate in proficiency testing and internal/external quality assessments.
• Assist in developing and updating standard operating procedures (SOPs) and protocols.

Technical Problem-Solving:

• Identify and resolve technical problems with laboratory equipment, reagents, and procedures.
• Escalate complex issues to supervisors or manufacturers when necessary.
• Collaborate with clinicians to address unusual cases or transfusion challenges.
• Provide expert recommendations based on serological findings.

Staff Development:

• Train new staff, students, or residents in blood bank protocols and procedures.
• Conduct competency assessments and continuing education sessions for team members.

Data Management and Reporting:

• Ensure accurate and complete documentation of laboratory tests and procedures in the laboratory information system (LIS).
• Generate and analyze reports to monitor trends, usage, and incidents.
• Document and report adverse events, errors, and near-misses according to established protocols.

Qualifications

Educational Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Medical Laboratory Science, Pathology
• Master’s degree in a related field is an added advantage.

Professional Requirements

• Certification as a Technologist or Specialist in Microbiology is an added advantage.

Experience Requirements:

• 1-4 years of experience in a blood bank setting, demonstrating progressive responsibility and expertise.
• Demonstrated ability to perform basic blood bank procedures such as blood typing, antibody screening, and compatibility testing under close supervision

Knowledge Requirements

• In-depth knowledge of blood bank principles, including blood collection, processing, storage, and transfusion.
• Comprehensive understanding of blood group systems, red cell antigens, antibodies, and blood compatibility testing.
• Knowledge of transfusion therapy, including indications, complications, and adverse reactions.
• Proficiency in various laboratory techniques, including serological testing and blood component preparation.

Skill Requirements:

• Technical Skills
• Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills
• Communication Skills
• Interpersonal Skills
• Attention to Detail
• Critical Thinking Skills
• Organizational Skills

Personal Abilities:

• Professional attitude towards work.
• Shares the AMCE’s vision.
• Proactive and organized.
• Has personal and professional credibility and commands the respect of colleagues and peers. 
• Supportive and approachable and capable of inspiring confidence in staff members.
• Ability to adapt accordingly.
• High levels of honesty and integrity.

Additional Information

African Medical Centre of Excellence, Abuja (AMCE Abuja) aims to be an Employer of Choice, providing equal opportunity for everyone regardless of their background, gender, race and other protected characteristics. We welcome applications from qualified applicants across Africa