Laboratory Assistant

About the Role

Lab Assistant / Phlebotomist performs any three of the following non-technical functions under the supervision of the department supervisor, manager, or director: collecting specimens, processing specimens, submitting and monitoring specimens to referral laboratories, and patient registration. Performs duties consistent with written procedures and regulatory requirements. Supports the department in achieving goals for service, quality, regulatory compliance, financial performance, patient satisfaction, healthy work environment, and integration of intra and inter-departmental activities.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrates a thorough understanding of specimen collection and testing requirements as well as specimen rejection criteria.
• Demonstrates proficiency in venipunctures and/or finger sticks on pediatric, neonatal, adults, and geriatric patients.
• Demonstrates proficiency in heel sticks on infants (as patient population requires).
• Utilizes supplies appropriately.
• Follows established procedures for patient identification and specimen collection based on test orders.
• Completes appropriate specimen collection documentation.
• Educates patient and/or family regarding specimen collection procedures prior to obtaining specimen.
• Uses computer information system relative to job functions.
• Responsible for clerical duties (i.e., faxing, phones, pneumatic tube system, reports).
• Demonstrates ability to deal with priorities first and plans for completion of duties.
• Reviews Outstanding Specimen Report (OSR) and pending specimen collections/accessioning issues; takes action as appropriate.
• Receives laboratory specimens into the laboratory information system.
• Performs registration and order entry procedures, as requested, with accuracy and in a timely manner.
• Labels specimens and aliquots according to established protocols and according to testing ordered.
• Centrifuges and aliquots specimens appropriately, based on specimen type and tests ordered.
• Prepares specimens to be ready for courier pick-up and includes special instructions as requested by physician orders.
• Discards laboratory specimens according to established schedule.
• Performs periodic preventive maintenance and quality assurance procedures as assigned.
• Collects chain-of-custody drug collections according to established policy (as laboratory may require).
• Keeps appropriate records/documentation relating to specimen problems and other problems encountered; takes corrective action as necessary to ensure validity and accuracy of testing.
• Cleans the area upon emergency spills of specimens.
• Assesses specimen requirements for referral testing and troubleshoots any specimen requirement and/or referral testing specimen or order entry issues.
• Processes, sorts, and prepares specimens for submission to referral laboratories for testing in accordance with specimen requirements for tests ordered.
• Regularly monitors and reviews the status of referred testing to assure that results are received and made available to physicians within established turnaround times.
• Reviews Outstanding Specimen Report (OSR) and pending referral testing issues; takes action as appropriate.
• Communicates and troubleshoots any problem specimens in a timely manner.

Requirements

• Ability to interact with co-workers in a team environment, promoting a harmonious and cooperative working environment.
• Demonstrates excellent customer service practices in all interactions.
• Effectively communicates with all personnel to exchange accurate and timely technical information.
• May assist in communication to customers, floors, and physicians regarding problem and/or pending specimens.
• Requires 2+ years of experience performing registration, clerical duties, and sending out specimen processing.
• Follows safety policies and procedures.
• Protects sensitive and confidential information by actively participating in the Privacy & Security Awareness program.
• Adheres to company policies and standards regarding security.
• Completes assigned courses and training on an annual basis.
• Available to work during disasters.

Qualifications

• Vocational/Technical Degree preferred.
• 1-3 years in a clinical laboratory setting preferred.

Skills

Phlebotomy, Medical Assistant, Paramedic, or EMT certification preferred.

About the Organization

HCA Healthcare Laboratory Services is a full-service provider for clinical laboratory and anatomic pathology services, providing hospitals, physicians, and clients with timely diagnostic information for patient care. Our infrastructure includes a fully automated esoteric core laboratory in Fort Lauderdale, a histology and microbiology operation in Largo, Florida, and a network of hospital-based rapid-response laboratories present in four HCA Healthcare divisions within the state of Florida. Our core laboratories support more than 250 acute and rehab hospitals, physician practices, surgery centers, and commercial accounts.