Medical Lab Assistant I

JOB DESCRIPTION: Performs and evaluates semi-technical laboratory procedures on patient specimens test material/reagents blood products and quality control material. Works in various areas of the clinical and anatomic pathology laboratories.

Duties may include registering patients ordering tests collecting samples and assessing the acceptability of samples for testing. Processes samples for testing including centrifugation aliquoting storage and shipping. Provides support for clinical testing including preparation of slides loading instruments and result reporting.

May perform waived and point-of-care testing. Uphold the values of the organization including providing and demonstrating exemplary customer service skills throughout the pre-analytical analytical and post analytical processes.

Communicates with hospital nursing service physicians procurement agencies and others regarding testing of laboratory specimens. Communicates any issues quickly and respectfully. Reviews patient information and test orders on paper requisitions and computerized test requests. Operates departmental computer programs to order laboratory tests appropriately; follows up on all specimens with incomplete information or questionable test orders.

Reconciles outstanding test orders that have not been resolved through standard operating procedures. Verifies complete courier delivery. Enters specimen tracking laboratory data and patient information in the computer. Receives specimens appropriately and in a timely manner. Performs proper specimen registration and accessing in the computer if necessary. Verifies and monitors all specimens received in laboratory for accurate packaging labeling and correct specimen collection requirements and are received appropriately. Initiates appropriate action or intervention on unacceptable specimens as needed.

Accurately labels and processes specimens for laboratory testing; ensures preservation of the integrity of each sample prior to distributing. Processes all samples according to their order priority within the required time frame. Assists with referral testing when requested. Maintains the stock of commonly used supplies performing routine inspections of supply levels to ensure adequate availability. Routinely uses laboratory equipment/instruments. Performs troubleshooting as necessary.

Performs preventative maintenance on equipment and calibrates instruments as required. Participates in quality improvement. Maintains accurate and complete documentation on processes/procedures patient information and equipment maintenance ensuring compliance with all accreditation regulations. Observes universal precautions barrier protection methods and infection control and isolation procedures when working with body fluids and other contagions to ensure a safe work environment.

Practices the principles of sterile technique and other infection control policies and standards. Takes the necessary precautions in keeping with laboratory organizational and other safety mandates. Escalates issues problems and opportunities to supervisory level for resolution. May perform venipuncture as required.

Attends educational in-services and training classes as appropriate. Works with leader to formulate a plan for professional development. Perform other duties as required.



MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: A high school diploma or equivalent.



PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS (Medium): 20-50 lbs; 0-33% of the work day (occasionally); 11-25 lbs 34-66% of the workday (frequently); 01-10 lbs 67-100% of the workday (constantly); Lifting 50 lbs max; Carrying of objects up to 25 lbs; Occasional to frequent standing & walking Occasional sitting Close eye work (computers typing reading writing) Physical demands may vary depending on assigned work area and work tasks.



ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS: Factors affecting environment conditions may vary depending on the assigned work area and tasks. Environmental exposures include but are not limited to: Blood-borne pathogen exposure Bio-hazardous waste Chemicals/gases/fumes/vapors Communicable diseases Electrical shock Floor Surfaces Hot/Cold Temperatures Indoor/Outdoor conditions Latex Lighting Patient care/handling injuries Radiation Shift work Travel may be required. Use of personal protective equipment including respirators environmental conditions may vary depending on assigned work area and work tasks.