Lab Assistant-PRN

The following information is designed to outline the functions and position requirements of this job. It does not identify all tasks that may be expected, nor address the performance standards that must be maintained.  Job functions may change based on the organizational need.

General Position Summary:

Responsible for ensuring accurate patient test results through accurate patient identification, labeling, and collection of proper/adequate samples, and loading specimens onto instruments

Essential Functions / Major Responsibilities:

·         Collects, processes, labels, and delivers specimens accurately.

·         Executes invasive procedures, venous and capillary, efficiently and successfully.

·         Records collection and receipt of samples in the computer system, including those collected internally as well as other samples that come into the Laboratory from outside locations.

·         Order Laboratory tests in the Laboratory system computer.

·         Looks up test orders in Hospital system for problem solving.

·         Watches Laboratory order monitor to maintain desired turnaround times on collections.

·         Prepares the Laboratory drawing rooms and trays by cleaning and stocking supplies. Checks daily for outdated supplies.

·         Prepares Mayo and Pathology samples for transport.

·         Packages and orders reference lab samples for shipping.

·         Transmits orders for testing to reference lab.

·         Conducts QC and maintenance on Laboratory BGM meter.

·         Cleans, sanitizes, and organizes the Laboratory.

·         Conducts miscellaneous clerical duties, as needed.

·         Miscellaneous duties as requested by Medical Technologist, (i.e. cleaning refrigerators, defrosting and cleaning freezers).

·         Performs basic duties of Laboratory System Coordinators in their absence.

o   Looks for orders: Standing and Regular.

o   Processes Pathology reports.

o   Faxes reports as needed.

o   Registers patients in Hospital system in a temporary account to be finished by System Coordinators.

·         Displays proper etiquette and mannerisms that reflect the SHINE Behavior Standards

·         Promotes the Patient Safety Standards as a core value of the organization.

·         Loads specimens on automated track system; urinalysis, chemistry and hematology analyzers, with training

·         Responsible for Eye Wash and Shower testing and documentation.

·         Assist with preparing Bone Marrow samples for transport.

·         Order and put away supplies as needed.

·         Assist Technologists, as needed

Secondary Functions:

·         Participates in departmental and association-wide informational meetings and in-services, including staff meetings, association -wide forums, and seminars.

·         Reviews department and association -wide policies and procedures annually.

·         All other duties as assigned.

Additional / Seasonal Responsibilities:

·         None.

Job Scope:

This job involves:

·         Recurring work situations with occasional variations from the norm.

·         A moderate level of complexity.

·         Typical operation from established and well-known procedures.

·         Performance of duties under moderate supervision.

Supervisory Responsibility:

·         None, for Laboratory Assistant I and II.  As needed for Laboratory Assistant III.

Interpersonal Contacts:

Contacts:

·         Are normally made with others inside the hospital.

·         Are made with own department, staff, and supervisor as well as other departments and locations.

·         Frequently contain confidential/sensitive information necessitating discretion at all times.

·         Usually include face-to-face and telephone contact, with little e-mail.

·         Include contact with staff and patients, with little physician contact.

Specific Job Skills & Mental Activities:

This position requires operational knowledge of general equipment and office equipment in the Laboratory department, including: fax, printer, phone systems, computer, and commonly used hospital computer programs (including Hospital Information Systems, MS Office, e-mail, and internet).

Must be service oriented and have excellent computer skills, customer service skills, organizational skills, multitasking skills, professional interpersonal skills, time management skills, the ability to prioritize work, and telephone etiquette.

Must read, write, speak, and understand English.

Education and/or Experience:

·         High school diploma or equivalent (required).

·         Basic computer skills (required).

·         Current CPR/BLS Certification (required within 30 days of hire date)

·         1-2 years Laboratory Assistant or Phlebotomy experience preferred.

·         Phlebotomy certification is encouraged

Physical Demands & Job Conditions:

Exert up to 50 lbs. of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 lbs. of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Physical demands are in excess of those of sedentary work. Light work usually requires walking or standing to a significant degree.  The worker is subject to contact with chemicals, contact with infectious fluids, constant standing, extensive close work, and encounters with upset/disturbed individuals.

Physical motions include finger dexterity, standing, walking, stooping, talking, reaching, feeling, sitting, bending, kneeling, grasping, listening/hearing, handling, lifting up to 20 pounds, and repetitive motions of the hands, wrists, and feet.

This is considered a safety-sensitive position.

OSHA Exposure Category:

Involves exposure to blood, body fluids, or tissues.