Laboratory Technicians-Blood Banks

About the Position

Laboratory Technicians-Blood Banks

The African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE) in partnership with King's College Hospital London (KCH) is seeking talented individuals to fill the role of Laboratory Technicians-Blood Banks.

Responsibilities

Blood Donation Processing and Screening:

• Perform blood donation collection procedures, ensuring the proper identification and labeling of donated blood.
• Screen blood donors for eligibility, including medical history and physical assessment.
• Conduct initial and confirmatory tests on donated blood for diseases such as HIV, Hepatitis B and C, syphilis, and other transmissible infections.
• Utilize centrifugation and other laboratory techniques to separate blood into components (e.g., red blood cells, plasma, platelets).

Blood Typing and Crossmatching:

• Perform ABO and Rh typing on donor and patient samples to determine compatibility.
• Conduct antibody screening tests to identify any unexpected antibodies that may affect transfusions.
• Perform compatibility testing (crossmatch) between donor and recipient blood to ensure safe transfusions.
• Accurately interpret blood typing and crossmatch results, identifying any discrepancies or issues for further evaluation.

Transfusion Support and Management:

• Ensure proper labeling, verification, and preparation of blood products for patient transfusions.
• Maintain an inventory of blood products, ensuring adequate stock levels and proper rotation of blood products to prevent expiration.
• Safely distribute blood products to clinical departments based on physician orders and patient needs.
• Maintain meticulous records of all transfusion-related activities, including patient identification, product lot numbers, and transfusion outcomes.

Laboratory Testing and Analysis:

• Conduct specialized tests such as direct antiglobulin tests (DAT), antibody identification, and hemoglobin electrophoresis.
• Regularly perform and document quality control procedures for blood bank testing reagents and equipment.
• Assist in resolving complex transfusion reactions and investigate discrepancies between donor and patient blood.

Documentation and Compliance:

• Document all laboratory results, patient information, and blood products in compliance with institutional and regulatory requirements.
• Ensure all blood bank activities are compliant with guidelines set by the FDA, AABB, CAP, and other accrediting bodies.
• Generate reports on blood bank activities, including inventory, testing results, and transfusion statistics.

Safety and Quality Assurance:

• Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) for laboratory safety, including the proper handling and disposal of biohazardous materials.
• Engage in continuous quality improvement initiatives by identifying potential improvements in laboratory processes.
• Regularly inspect, clean, and calibrate blood bank equipment to ensure optimal performance and compliance with regulations.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Collaborate with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure the safe and effective use of blood products.
• Communicate critical laboratory findings, such as incompatible blood crossmatches or abnormal test results, to the appropriate clinical staff promptly.
• Educate new staff or interns on blood bank procedures and laboratory best practices.

Requirements

Educational Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science (MLS), Medical Technology, Clinical Laboratory Science, or a related field

Experience Requirements:

• Minimum of 1 year 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.

Skill Requirements:

• Excellent manual dexterity and fine motor skills.
• Ability to perform laboratory procedures accurately and efficiently.
• Attention to detail and ability to identify discrepancies.

We Offer

• Opportunity to work in a cutting-edge healthcare facility.
• Be part of a pioneering institution in Africa.
• Professional growth and development opportunities.

About the Company

The African Medical Centre of Excellence, Abuja (AMCE Abuja), a multi-specialty medical institution developed by Afreximbank in partnership with King's College Hospital London (KCH), aims to revolutionize healthcare in Africa. Established to address critical gaps, the AMCE Abuja is committed to providing world-class care through innovative research, development, and education. The partnership with King's College Hospital ensures global expertise, world-class clinical training, research, and professional development. The Centre will offer comprehensive services in oncology, haematology, cardiovascular care, and general healthcare across the continent, with plans for expansion.

Set to commence operations in early 2025, this flagship facility in Abuja is a key part of Afreximbank’s network of healthcare facilities, actively countering brain drain, reducing medical tourism by offering advanced procedures such as stem cell transplantation and state-of-the-art treatments for various diseases, and fostering employment opportunities. The vision for the AMCE initiative is to shape a healthier and more educated future for Africa.