MEDICAL LAB ASSISTANT

Description

Position Summary

The Medical Laboratory Assistant provides professional clinical laboratory science services, including performance of clinical laboratory examinations, proficiency testing, quality control, instrument maintenance and validation, testing validation, testing management, and other functions toward the attainment of these goals under the direct supervision of a medical technologist. Areas of sample analysis are limited to moderate complexity testing platforms. This position oversees the work of phlebotomists and trainees. All work is performed under supervision by the Laboratory Manager or a Medical Technologist. 

Primary Responsibilities

1. Performs clinical laboratory examinations on body fluids and exudates utilizing

quantitative, qualitative, or automated methods: 

a) performs chemistry, immunology, and hematology tests (excluding manual differentials) to obtain data for use in diagnosis and treatment of disease including proficiency testing, quality control, and validation studies(excluding compatibility testing and immunohematological clinical laboratory examinations) 

b) performs microbiological clinical laboratory pre-analytical testing procedures and studies; 

c) performs clinical laboratory examinations on patients of all ages

d) performs quality control checks and evaluates quality control data, completing documentation as required. Laboratory Assistant responsibilities may include phlebotomy duties, pre-analytical specimen processing, testing procedures, and receptionist/clerical duties. 

2. Additional duties may include processing bacteriology specimens for referral and  assisting in positive blood culture preliminary work-ups

3. assist in review and updating policies and procedures concerning specimen collections and handling

4. assist in data collection and review of quality control including IQCP plan assessments

5. miscellaneous duties as deemed appropriate and when assigned by supervisors or manager.

6. Sets up and adjusts laboratory instrumentation as required; 

7. performs and completes defined equipment and instrument maintenance protocols

8. performs instrument setup prior to testing following the recommended manufacturer and

department procedures

9. troubleshoots and resolves instrument malfunctions to assure real time availability of equipment

10. after training, operates any scientific instrument and performs any required procedure.

11. Performs test reporting of critical values and stat values

12. recognizes and resolves problem scenarios and handles difficult situations with little supervision

13. reviews departmental testing logs for completeness of testing requests communicates with medical professionals

14. recognizes and resolves out-of-control scenarios; receives written or electronic requests from physicians for routine or special laboratory tests

15. interacts with and uses laboratory information system (LIS) and/or hospital information system (HIS) computer functions as they relate to testing and reporting

16. performs clerical duties in any area of the laboratory for which appropriate training and competency has been demonstrated.

17. performs phlebotomy duties as warranted

18. performs therapeutic phlebotomies as warranted

19. performs inventory checks and restocks work area as needed

20. performs special projects and miscellaneous duties as deemed appropriate and when assigned by manager. 

Competencies

1. Knowledge of laboratory procedures in multiple departments to include hematology, chemistry, immunology/serology, and microbiology. 

2. Ability to use problem solving skills in handling difficult situations without direct supervision.

3. Ability to work independently.

4. Good technical reading skills.

5. Ability to be flexible.

6. Ability to prioritize and coordinate multiple tasks for greatest laboratory efficiency.

7. Good organizational skills.

8. High degree of accuracy.

9. Knowledge and comprehension of medical and technical material. 

10. Knowledge of basic computer operation and programs. 

11. Good mathematical skills.

12. Good reasoning skills.

13. Ability to read, write, speak, understand, and communicate effectively in English.

14. Ability to use appropriate discretion in handling confidential material and information.

Requirements

Required Education and Experience

1. High School Diploma 

2. State licensure as Clinical Laboratory Assistant.

Preferred Education and Experience

1. 2 years Clinical Laboratory experience preferred.