Laboratory Assistant

Overview

The Laboratory Assistant is responsible for the performance of basic assigned Laboratory tasks.

Responsibilities

• Collects blood by performing venipunctures and/or capillary punctures, and other patients' specimens.
• Performs physical part of urinalysis.
• Records specimens and performs record keeping pertaining to the job.
• Prepare media.
• Inoculates bacteriology specimens.
• Prepares parasitology specimens.
• Prepares blood specimens for examination.
• Prepares equipment and glassware for special tests, if applicable.
• May cut pathological specimens and prepare for physician review, if applicable.
• May stain and coverslip slides, if applicable.
• May perform EKG's, EEG's and Holter monitor hookups as required.
• May wash glassware and pipettes as required.
• Answers telephone and delivers reports to nurses' stations.
• May assist with autopsies, where applicable.
• May be assigned to one specific area of the Pathology/Clinical Laboratory to provide technical assistance as required.
• Assists in keeping supplies at stock level.
• Completes daily log sheets.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent required.
• Some science classes desirable.
• Must have taken and passed a phlebotomy training program within the last five (5) years.

Experience

Candidates must meet one of the following qualifications:

• One (1) year of prior acceptable experience in laboratory technique, covering at least fifty percent (50%) of the clinical duties required in the position; OR
• Nine (9) semester hours of laboratory-related college science courses from an accredited college or university, or successful completion of a Medical Assistant program of at least nine (9) months; OR
• Satisfactory completion of at least fourteen (14) weeks of a basic course in laboratory technique offered by one of the branches of the Armed Forces with at least six (6) months of experience in general laboratory work; OR
• Satisfactory completion of an approved CNA or LPN curriculum within the last four (4) years.

Three (3) months of orientation required to determine proficiency in the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities.

Required Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

• Knowledge of specimen collection techniques and laboratory procedures.
• Ability to perform phlebotomy procedures accurately and safely.
• Ability to identify patients and label specimens accurately.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with patients, providers, and laboratory staff.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Knowledge of infection control and safety procedures.
• Ability to work effectively in a clinical and laboratory environment.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times.