Night Morgue Attendant - Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine : Job Details

Overview

Responsible for intake and release of decedents; answering phones; scheduling of organ/tissue procurement; preparation of tools and paperwork; performing diagnostic imaging activities using CT scanner and Lodox; requesting records, distributing slides for histology; completing inventory, stocking, and laundry for the Department of Pathology.

Responsibilities

* Performs intake and release of decedents, facilitating this process with funeral homes/transport companies, and completion of necessary documentation, maintaining a legal chain of custody of eachdecedent.

* Performs diagnostic imaging activities (LODOX, CT scanner, etc.) on each decedent and body donor transported to WMed.

* Prepares for autopsies each morning by preparing bodies, setting up stations, creating histological cassettes and rulers using cassette printer, as well as folders and paperwork for each decedent requiring a postmortem examination.

* Answers and coordinates all internal and external phone calls regarding intake and release of decedents, WMed North cases, consultant examinations, private examinations, WMed body donations,etc.

* Assists in the Anatomy Laboratory to include: support with transfer of cadavers to anatomy laboratory and into storage, maintenance of cadavers and cleanliness of the anatomy lab.

* Assists with embalming process of all WMed body donors, including post-embalming clean-up.

* Assists in the Research Histology Laboratory to include: maintaining organization of all glass slides and paraffin blocks; ensuring proper accessioning and labeling of all tissue samples, including operation of slide and cassette printing equipment, prepares samples for shipment, including inventory procedures and generating shipping documentation; performs routine and non-routine activities involved in the preparation of slides for microscopic evaluation, as directed by Lead Histotechnologist.

* Assists investigations by obtaining medical records, checking content and accuracy of Medical Certificates of Death, reviewing each investigated case for accuracy, and assisting in the preparation of cremation permits for review by a medical examiner or deputy medical examiner.

* Scheduling and coordination of all organ/tissue procurement via communication with organ procurement organizations.

* Acquires knowledge for new technology and policy/procedure revisions.

* Performs all procedures and documentation related to decedents sent to WMed for storage.

* Maintains inventory and stocking of supplies.

* Maintains cleanliness of walk-in coolers (forensic and anatomy), as well as inventory of all decedents located therein.

* Responsible for all laundry operations, including scrubs and the cleaning and preparation of all recycled rags/mops.

* Organizes workload to complete assignments within the requested period.

* Attends and actively participates in departmental meetings.

* Availability to work occasional overtime on weekends or evenings to complete time sensitive projects.

* Occasionally responsible for cleaning up bodily fluids from cadavers outside of department.

* All other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

* High School Diploma/GED required; Associates or Bachelor's degree preferred

* Exceptional time management skills required

* Experience in customer service or medical specialty preferred

* Radiology experience (LODOX/CT) preferred

* Experience organizing and shipping samples preferred

* Experience operating cassette and slide printing equipment a strong plus

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

* Ability to work independently without direct supervision and make correct decisions based on training and experience

* Demonstrate care and understanding in communicating with grieving individuals

* Knowledge and proficiency with web-based applications and other software as required by the department

* Ability to interpret, comprehend, and transmit complicated and detailed instructions accurately and efficiently

* Ability to communicate effectively with others verbally and in writing

* Knowledge and proficiency in grammar and spelling skills

* Ability to understand and interpret written material, including technical material and instructions

* Demonstrates strong organizational and time-management skills

* Discretion, compassion, and exemplary attention to detail

* Ability to operate automated standard office equipment such as multi-line phone system, copier, photography equipment and more

* Demonstrates the ability to recognize priorities in organization of work flow

* Able to perform duties independently, with a minimal need for direct supervision

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

* The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

* The employee works in a clean, well-lighted, temperature controlled, and smoke-free environment. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Minimal risk of exposure to noxious substances and infectious agents.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

* The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

* The employee must be able to perform a combination of sitting, standing, and walking. Must have the ability to hear within normal range and possess the physical capability and hand dexterity to operate basic office equipment.

* Occasionally lifts average of 30 pounds.

INTERPERSONAL REQUIREMENTS:

* Exhibits a commitment to the values expressed in the medical school mission, vision and values; Educational Pledge; Code of Professional Conduct; and building a supportive learning and working environment with a positive attitude at the work place and toward their job.

* Demonstrates excellent interpersonal skills and ability to interact in a positive and helpful manner with all constituents both internally and externally in a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability.

* Ability to work effectively on group projects with internal and external customers in a collaborative manner.

* Applies knowledge of principles and process for providing exemplary stakeholder service and support. This includes assessment of stakeholder needs, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of stakeholder satisfaction.

* Maintains the confidentiality of all patient, employee, physician, student, and institutional information.

* Supports and assists enhancing the diversity, culture and inclusiveness of the medical school.