Laboratory Assistant/ Phlebotomist

Pay

$22.64/hr. to $31.22/hr.

About the role

The role of Laboratory Assistant encompasses many areas of the laboratory. Laboratory Assistants perform phlebotomy and drug screen collections; receive and process specimens; occasionally perform some technical procedures under direct supervision; access information in computer, register patients, order tests and perform charting functions. They play a key role in the pre-analytic and post-analytic process of specimen testing.

Responsibilities

• Performs phlebotomy collections from inpatients and outpatients, assuring proper patient identification prior to collection; properly labeling specimens; and promptly assuring specimen is received into the laboratory for testing.
• Assures that samples are processed promptly and distributed to appropriate testing location.
• Provides input for revising and presenting new procedures for Clinical Services and/or work team.
• Keeps work areas clean and well stocked.
• Assists with supply ordering and restocking, as needed.
• Performs computer registration and order entry for patients and/or received specimens.
• Maintains competency and performs drug screen collections to meet Federal guidelines.
• Communicates with physicians, nursing staff and Clinical Services Team to ensure proper procurement of specimens, and that correct orders are placed.
• Distributes completed patient reports to appropriate locations.
• Calls abnormal results as specified in laboratory policies or by specified provider request.
• Provides care appropriate to the age of patients served, neonate, infant, pediatric, adolescent, adult, and geriatric.
• Follows up unusual test requests by researching and consulting with appropriate reference laboratories to assure correct testing is performed.
• Arranges for couriers and cabs for prompt specimen pickup, as needed.
• Follows up all problems or errors by collecting documentation for Lab Director and/or pathologists, assisting with reviewing problem and retraining of staff involved.
• Aids in solving problems or concerns regarding specimen, paperwork or test results.
• Aids in answering phones, taking orders and transmitting results to authorized personnel.
• Looks for ways to improve customer service.
• Supports team and patient care during absence of co-workers by being available to cover vacation and sick time.
• Acquires accurate billing related information from providers when needed.
• Participates in training of employees to assure that all lab staff receives appropriate training and maintain competency in Clinical Services.

Requirements

• Required High school diploma or equivalent.
• Preferred (1) year related experience.

Qualifications

• Certificate of completion from Lab Assistant, Medical Assistant or CNA accredited program.
• ASCP or NCA Phlebotomy certificate.

Skills

• Assumes responsibility for maintaining competency in all areas where training was completed.
• Keeps abreast of new computer functions, computer usage and changes having to do with computers and printers.
• Demonstrates confidentiality according to PHI regarding patient and co-worker information according to PHI level of access.
• Follows organizational departmental policies and procedures and carries out duties in all areas where training and documentation of competency have been documented.
• Functions as a cooperative laboratory team member, supporting others.
• Must be able to speak, read and write conversational English.
• Typing and previous computer use.
• Possesses knowledge and skills through experience and/or training to be able to provide care appropriate to the age of patients served in this job.
• Ability to be thorough and accurate in paperwork.
• Uses effective communication skills.
• Personal appearance makes a good first impression.
• Excellent customer service skills a must.
• Flexible, able to work to meet the needs of the department.
• Preferred Word processing.
• Medical terminology.
• Laboratory terminology.
• Bilingual skills a plus.