Dear all,
We are seeing an increasing number of adverts for NPT (or
POCT) co-ordinator posts.
What are people’s views on the professional background
from which applicants should come from?
Most of us assume that it should be a BMS background, probably
biased towards a Biochemistry trained / qualified / experienced person, (but
should also encompass Haematology BMSs, due to the increase in the amount of
Haematology related NP testing, especially clotology).
Do people think that an applicant from a Nursing background
would / could be appropriate (cf. blood transfusion SPOT)? Nursing staff
perform a lot of the NP testing, and someone who understands the nursing point
of view and who could communicate effectively could be a huge advantage. With
few and notable exceptions, BMS staff do not get out of the lab enough to understand
the pressures / hierarchies etc. etc. and dare I say it, perhaps do not
communicate well with the outside world (a vital function IMHO of the role of
NPT co-ordinator). But perhaps that is not seen as a disadvantage.
And what about Clinical Engineers and ODAs who often do a lot
of NP testing? Should they be encouraged to apply?
I would be interested in people’s views,
Thanks,
Chris
Chris Royle
NPT Project Manager
Royal Brompton and
Harefield NHS Trust
SW3 6NP
tel 020 7351 8413 (direct
line)