Laboratory Assistant (Temporary, W-Su)

This is temporary position.  Performs a variety of procedures to assist in providing laboratory services. Follow established policies and protocols including but not limited to handling and accessioning specimens, entering laboratory information into computer, and instructing patients on specimen collection.  Provides clerical and customer service support to laboratory department.

Follow written standard procedures and standard phlebotomy practices for positive patient identification; understand and follow written and oral instructions when obtaining blood specimens from patients under a variety of conditions.

Perform venipuncture and finger sticks based on SOP and using standard equipment to include vacutainer tubes and sleeves, tourniquets, blood culture, syringes and butterfly needles.

Communicate to patients on the procedure to be done using  (AIDET) protocol; collect and distribute specimens from patients for laboratory testing per testing requirements; label, centrifuge and store blood samples for analysis by the clinical laboratory staff and/or external laboratory service providers.

Perform test order recording into electronic system per procedure; process non-blood clinical specimens accordingly for testing or send outs.

Perform other duties as required including assisting Nurses, Medical providers, and/or laboratory personnel in obtaining blood from "hard to draw patients" and maintaining appropriate records of specimens drawn.

Perform other  clerical duties as required including  communicating to Nurses, Medical providers, and/or laboratory personnel in regards to patients specimens status , type of  test order and reporting of patient results.

Handle and properly label bio hazardous specimens according to the hospital rules and regulations.

Maintain a clean, neat and safe work environment.  

Properly dispose needles and other used equipment according to the hospital guidelines on biohazardous waste management.

Assist scientists with other miscellaneous duties such as urine plating , ordering supplies and stocking supplies.

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent.

Experience: Completion of recognized training program in phlebotomy, six months to one year related experience, or equivalent combination.   
Licenses & Certifications: Current CA CPT Certification as Phlebotomist.  Current BLS Certification.
Required Skills & Knowledge: Excellent verbal communication skills. Strong organizational and problem solving skills. Versatility, flexibility and a willingness to work within constantly changing environment. Ability to effectively communicate with people at all levels and from various backgrounds. Must be able to work as a team with other Laboratory Assistants and Clinical Laboratory Scientists.