Blood bank jobs include technicians, specialists, quality assurance specialists, medical assistants, and laboratory technical coordinators. They require attention to detail, understanding of healthcare regulations, and patient and team member relations. Responsibilities range from initial collection and handling of blood samples to overseeing bank operations and ensuring regulatory compliance. Education and certification requirements vary.
For those not taken in by the sight of blood, working in a blood bank can be an exciting and rewarding career. These jobs require strict attention to detail, an understanding of healthcare regulations, and the ability to relate to the patient and other team members. The different types of blood bank jobs include technicians, blood bank technicians or specialists (SBB), quality assurance specialists, medical assistants, and laboratory technical coordinators.
Blood bank technicians are responsible for the initial collection and handling of blood samples. They must obtain blood from donors safely, following all medical and clinical guidelines. Technicians ensure that enough blood is collected and that it is properly sealed in preparation for handling and transport. They counsel patients about the blood draw procedure and any potential risks.
A technologist or blood bank specialists will perform routine blood tests and tests, as well as more complex blood tests. They prepare blood samples for testing using various types of laboratory equipment. Some duties include determining blood type, checking for viruses, investigating transfusion-related reactions, and identifying childhood blood disorders. A bachelor’s degree, preferably in the field of medical science or technology, and certification are required for these blood bank jobs.
Quality Assurance Specialists work within the back office of blood banks to ensure that all safety, privacy and health regulations are being followed. They track any incidents or regulatory violations, provide compliance training and report to local and national agencies. Some may be responsible for maintaining and calibrating the laboratory and other equipment.
Blood bank jobs for medical assistants focus on initial patient interactions and preliminary health checkups. The medical assistant will greet the patient and perform all necessary customer service tasks. He or she may then take vital signs, including blood pressure, weight, pulse and temperature. It is the assistant’s responsibility to have all medical paperwork completed and set up, as well as to clean the donation areas.
One of the highest paying blood bank jobs is that of the laboratory technical coordinator. This person oversees bank operations, demonstrates the highest level of technical and testing skills, conducts employee training and reviews, and ensures employees are following agency and regulatory requirements. The technical coordinator must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in the fields of medical technology or clinical laboratory sciences and at least three years of clinical experience.
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