Monitor and follow up urgent / significant microbiology results provided by the laboratory. Advise clinicians about interpretation of the results and after discussion with a Microbiology Consultant / Specialty Doctor support clinical decision making and antibiotic treatment choices. Identify complex clinical cases and scenarios and discuss all these cases with the consultant Microbiologist. Have knowledge and understanding of clinical scenarios which require immediate attention and escalation to the Consultant Microbiologist and or/communication to the relevant medical or nursing team for the patient.
Advise on the validation of complex laboratory results. Participate in authorisation of serology results. Investigate any erroneous or unusual patient test results. Participate in core clinical work independently, as directed by the Consultant Microbiologist during the working day.
This would include lab liaison, clinical liaison, ward rounds, patient reviews and MDT attendances, documentation, updating notes and collecting relevant patient history. Work independently with the antimicrobial Pharmacists and contribute to the antimicrobial stewardship agenda in the Trust under the supervision of the Consultant. Works independently demonstrating expertise within the defined protocols of clinical microbiology and virology, exercising initiative in day-to-day responsibilities. Liaise with the Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) nurses regarding new results of IPC significance.
Work closely with the Infection Prevention and Control Team to promote good practice in Infection Prevention within the Trust. Work alongside the laboratory leads in Microbiology ensuring relevant policies and procedures are produced and upheld in a manner befitting of accreditation status. Leads the implementation and review of policies within the microbiology service, identifying and proposing changes to enhance service quality and impact beyond their immediate area. Develops and maintains specialist Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for equipment, tests and techniques, ensuring alignment with best practice and consideration of their impact on wider laboratory services.
Demonstrates leadership within microbiology, contributing to service development and supporting the wider objectives of the Pathology department, Division, and Trust.