Laboratory Assistant I - General Lab

About the role

Trained to perform processing of blood and other body fluids, sendouts, and other tests as required. Obtains blood samples from the correct patient, ensuring that the blood is properly drawn and labeled following established procedures to assure the proper specimen for the requested testing. Trained to become competent at venipunctures and skin punctures. May register and interview patients, obtaining accurate demographic and financial information. May be required to verify medical necessity for all Medicare patients.

Responsibilities

• Meets expectations of the applicable OneCHRISTUS Competencies: Leader of Self, Leader of Others, or Leader of Leaders.
• Performs daily phlebotomy procedures and tests on a fluctuating work schedule.
• Obtains an adequate specimen on all patients, including correct timed specimens when indicated.
• Observes established personnel policies, OSHA requirements, and lab procedures to ensure safe practice.
• Assures proper identification of patient and specimens in accordance with established laboratory identification procedures, and cares for patients promptly and courteously.
• Maintains integrity of specimens while processing specimens and distributes specimens to the proper department or reference laboratory.
• Plates and smears all specimens received for culturing onto appropriate media.
• Processes microbiology specimens when assigned.
• Processes sendout testing when necessary.
• Answers pneumatic tube system at all times.
• Assists in orienting new personnel as directed by the lead tech or lab director.
• Continuously practices universal precautions.
• Follows all hospital, section, and safety policies and procedures.
• Performs age‑specific criteria for all age groups, fingersticks, heel sticks, venipuncture, blood cultures, syringe collections, and the use of butterfly needles.
• Registers and interviews patients, obtaining accurate demographic and financial information.
• Performs therapeutic phlebotomies.
• Stocks drawing stations and outpatient rest rooms; maintains phlebotomy area and trays in orderly, usable condition.
• Maintains a system of inventory control of assigned areas and assumes responsibility for neatness and cleanliness of patient area.
• Follows hospital safety policy, including wearing gloves while performing phlebotomy and utilizing safeguard needles and syringes.
• Follows needlestick policy in the event of needlestick or mucous membrane exposure.
• Contacts patients or nursing stations for additional specimens, if necessary.
• Performs daily clerical duties such as entering results into the computer, receiving specimens, answering the telephone, printing logs, looking up results, monitoring label printing, problem solving, and assisting office personnel as needed.
• Reports to CLS, CLT, or Supervisor any irregularities encountered in performing daily workload.
• Maintains a clean work area.
• Helps to unpack and distribute laboratory supplies.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to register patients, obtain specimens, and dispense critical information in accordance with section, laboratory, and hospital policies and procedures.
• Must be able to read and write English and communicate effectively.
• Must be able to operate laboratory equipment and computer systems.
• Relevant experience preferred.
• No specific licenses, registrations, or certifications required, though all associates must obtain required certifications for their positions within the designated time frame per CHRISTUS Health policy.

Schedule

Multiple shifts available; work type is Per Diem / As Needed.