Laboratory Assistant 1 - Relief

Responsibilities

• Performs specimen collection and patient preparation ensuring correct patient and specimen identification per NAH policy.
• Properly labels specimens at point of care followed by the Final Check protocol.
• Properly collects blood cultures using aseptic technique to prevent contamination.
• Collections blood bank specimens according to established procedures.
• Handles bio-hazardous and infectious material while following universal precautions and OSHA guidelines.
• Confirms specimen and patient requirements prior to collection.
• Ensures specimen integrity by using appropriate techniques as required.
• (Ex. Protected from light and temperature control.)
• Accesses specimens into LIS selecting the appropriate location, date and time of service.
• Properly distributes specimens within the lab announcing STAT if applicable.
• Uses two identifiers correctly to re-label and initial specimens with Cerner generated labels.
• Keeps a well organized processing area and correctly prioritizes the upcoming draw times based on the priority of the collection (RT, STAT, TM, ASAP, AM).
• Aliquots and labels specimens according to established departmental procedures if needed.
• Properly plates micro specimens as appropriate.
• Checks quality of specimens and takes appropriate actions for unacceptable specimens.
• Recognizes and provides input towards opportunities for improvements, to decrease cost, improve productivity, and improve service.
• Performs other technical support functions as determined by the laboratory.
• Enters data into LIS computer to ensure accurate documentation and billing.
• Navigates through PowerChart to print out patient requisitions and confirm timed studies.
• Identifies when to do a quick reg, full, or client bill.
• Demonstrates the use of each applicable Cerner icons.
• Completes documents legibly and accurately per site protocol.
• Uses appropriate documentation to record communications.
• When appropriate places the specimen into recollect or cancels with proper documentation.
• Pulls up a fax list daily and ensures faxes get completed timely.
• Maintains a pending list and discusses at shift change.
• Verifies patient demographics, insurance, and diagnostic test information for all outpatient/outreach services.
• Correctly logs in specimens into the correct location.

Compliance/Safety

• Reports any safety-related incidents in a timely fashion through the Midas/RDE tool.
• Attends all safety-related training programs.
• Performs work in a safe manner.
• Maintains a safe work environment for possible safety issues and ensures others are also performing work in a safe manner.
• Stays current and complies with state and federal regulations/statutes and company policies that impact the employee's area of responsibility.
• If required for the position, ensures all certifications and/or licenses are up-to-date and valid prior to expiration dates.
• Completes all company mandatory modules and required job-specific training in the specified time frame.
• Ability to monitor patients for unexpected reactions and respond to emergency situations as required.