Laboratory Assistant (Per Diem)

About the Role

The Laboratory Assistant performs phlebotomy, specimen processing, registration, and limited laboratory testing.

Responsibilities

• Exhibits courteous and cooperative behavior toward patients, families, visitors, volunteers, students, peers, and providers.
• Anticipates service needs and proactively resolves issues; practices service recovery skills.
• Works collaboratively both inside and outside the department; promotes performance improvement.
• Follows through on statements and actions in a timely manner; strives for excellence in all endeavors.
• Obtains specimens and independently performs lab tests in the CLIA "waived" and "moderate" complexity category.
• Assists Medical Technologist/Medical Laboratory Technician with performance of other tests, quality controls, and projects as assigned.
• Performs phlebotomy duties, including obtaining venous and capillary blood specimens as ordered.
• Completes paperwork necessary to process specimens (registration, order entry, and result entry).
• Transports STAT blood work and alerts Laboratory Technician to STAT testing; transports specimens from the OR.
• Cleans and disinfects equipment; maintains a safe environment with attention to standard precautions.
• Assesses patients for risk or potential of neglect or abuse and makes referrals as appropriate.
• For Medicare patients, determines if ordered laboratory tests meet Medicare medical necessity guidelines and obtains Medicare ABN (Advanced Beneficiary Notice) prior to obtaining specimen when indicated.
• Consults with ordering practitioner about diagnosis for specific tests if needed.
• Accurately registers patients and enters test orders in Meditech; completes all necessary paperwork in a timely fashion.
• Processes reference laboratory and pathology testing.
• Performs breath alcohol testing and maintains current certification.
• Performs urine drug screen collections and maintains current DOT certification.
• Understands and complies with patient privacy and HIPAA regulations.
• Complies with phone usage policy.

Requirements

• High school graduate or equivalent; associate degree preferred.
• One year of phlebotomy experience is preferred; phlebotomy certificate is desirable.
• Clerical/secretarial experience is preferred.

Skills

• Knowledge of medical terminology is desirable.
• Familiarity with computer applications required; technical aptitude and willingness to learn software applications.
• Congenial and pleasant disposition; strong interpersonal skills for public contact.
• Time management skills and detail-oriented.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills.