We are seeking an Associate Practitioner with relevant experience working within a laboratory. This is an opportunity to join the Blood Sciences Department at NHS Dumfries and Galloway, where the post holder will be based at Galloway Community Hospital in Stranraer. The post holder will work closely with staff working at Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary, utilising modern technology. The laboratory provides services to both primary and secondary care within the Wigtownshire and Stewartry areas of Dumfries and Galloway.
Stranraer is a superb base to enjoy all outdoor activities. There are a variety of stunning locations within the region and beautiful countryside all around. This post will allow the successful candidate to embrace the unique challenges and benefits of multidiscipline experience along with a team of friendly staff in the heart of the local Hospital. Stranraer has transport links to Belfast via the Ferry ports and road/rail links to Ayr, Glasgow and Dumfries.
Candidates will be enthusiastic, outgoing, motivated and innovative, with good organisational skills and well developed communication skills. After a period of suitable training, you will be expected to participate in periods of lone working as part of an extended working day and weekend working. Out of hours laboratory service is provided by point of care testing instrumentation, performed by clinical staff.
Dumfries & Galloway has a population of 150,000 people with approximately 230,000 samples analysed in Haematology, 17,000 samples in Blood Transfusion and 300,000 samples in Biochemistry. The laboratory at Galloway Community Hospital analyses a proportion of these specimens, with approximately 23,000 Haematology and 28,500 Biochemistry specimens analysed annually in the department. Blood Transfusion services are performed at Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary, however the post holder is expected to have a strong understanding of Blood Transfusion theory and guidelines as the laboratory is responsible for the maintenance of blood and blood product storage equipment and stock management software.
The laboratory holds UKAS ISO15189 accreditation and is compliant with BSQR. You will rotate in all areas of the laboratory including Haematology Automation (FBC and Coagulation) and Biochemistry. The department utilizes a wide range of analytical equipment, of which you will be required to become proficient in after suitable training, following Departmental SOPs.
This post will require the successful applicant to obtain Standard Disclosure Clearance.