Rachel Yerich MLS (ASCP)

Transfusion Medicine Medical Laboratory Scientist

Cleveland, Ohio, United States

About

Hello! I am a veteran from the United States Navy who turned my love of troubleshooting into a career in healthcare. After 8 years of honorable service as an Electrician's Mate, I transitioned into healthcare through earning my BS in Biology at Baldwin Wallace and completing a post-baccalaureate program in Medical Laboratory Science at the Cleveland Clinic. Recently certified as a Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) through ASCP, I bring the same dedication to accuracy and attention to detail from working on Naval submarines to the critical work of diagnostic testing. I apply the discipline and accuracy I developed in the Navy directly to clinical laboratory work, where every test represents quality patient outcomes. I'm excited to channel my analytical skills and quality-driven approach toward supporting healthcare teams through dependable laboratory results. Core Competencies: • ASCP-certified Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) • Laboratory instrumentation and analytical testing methods • Microscopy and diagnostic testing • Military-trained reliability and attention to detail • Excellent communication and documentation skills • Strong background in quality control

Experience

  • Cleveland Clinic (2 yrs 6 mos)
    • Laboratory Technician IV
      Jan 2024 - Present · 2 yrs 6 mos

      As a Blood Bank Laboratory Technician at a major medical center, I manage and distribute vital blood products including red blood cells, plasma, platelets, and cryoprecipitate. My responsibilities encompass receiving and processing blood samples, thawing frozen products, and selecting appropriate blood products for patient needs throughout the hospital. I solve complex antibody workups using many different blood banking techniques including eluates, titration, prewarm procedures, and LISS/PEG. I operate specialized equipment for blood product irradiation and perform precise aliquots as required. Proficiency in Epic hospital software as well as blood bank interfaces like SafeTrace is essential for tracking and managing our inventory. Being a blood banker demands meticulous attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work efficiently in a dynamic medical environment. While working in this position, I have achieved my goal of becoming a medical laboratory scientist certified by ASCP and now am working as a full time blood banker.

    • Medical Laboratory Scientist
      Jan 2024 - Present · 2 yrs 6 mos

  • Baldwin Wallace University (2 yrs 5 mos)
    • Microbiology Lab Assistant / Gross Anatomy Lab Assistant
      Jan 2023 - Dec 2023 · 1 yr

    • Student
      Aug 2021 - Dec 2023 · 2 yrs 5 mos

  • Patient Care Assistant at Southwest General Health Center
    Jun 2022 - Apr 2023 · 11 mos

    Administration of basic nursing procedures including electrocardiograms, monitoring and recording vital signs, and physical assistance for patients. Performed preliminary diagnostic tests and collected specimens.

  • Electrician's Mate, 2nd Class at US Navy
    Jun 2013 - Aug 2021 · 8 yrs 3 mos

    Electrician's Mate 2nd class in charge of inspecting electrical systems and equipment. Work Center Supervisor for over 3 years, in charge of overhauling and maintaining submarine motors, generators, and controllers in the PNW. Extensive knowledge of safety standards, work packages, and job tracking.

  • Assistant Retail Sales Manager at Bed Bath & Beyond
    Jan 2020 - Jul 2021 · 1 yr 7 mos