Laboratory Assistant/ Specimen Processor

About the role

Performs processing of specimens, maintains the accessioning/send-out department, performs phlebotomy functions and non-technical duties in areas including the hospital laboratory, outpatient and off-site services. Performs limited waived testing as assigned.

Responsibilities

• Answers pneumatic tube station and promptly handles receiving in of specimens, centrifugation of specimens, and distribution of specimens to the various departments.
• Loads DxA appropriately and manages system alerts.
• Processes all send-out tests, ensuring correct specimen type, adequate volume, proper storage, ordering and packaging and accurate/timely completion of the batch list for LabCorp (interfaced tests).
• Maintains the specimen and reference lab problem log, following through on issues thoroughly and in a timely manner.
• Enters lab miscellaneous orders in and verifies that information is complete for billing.
• Performs phlebotomy (venipuncture, fingerstick, and heelstick) according to established procedures and utilizes computers as appropriate in completing assigned functions.
• Verifies all information for accuracy and performs order entry with no errors.
• Generates collection lists and can add on or cancel tests properly.
• Identifies patients and properly labels specimen tubes.
• Uses handheld device to scan wristband, print labels, and scan labeled specimens in to the system at the patient's chairside/bedside.
• Orders are checked to the printed specimen labels to ensure all tests are ordered and correct (i.e. a checkmark is placed next to each test on the order requisition).
• Labels all specimen tubes following established procedure: LIS barcode label, date and time of draw, and phlebotomist initials.
• Performs venipuncture using correct technique and with minimal discomfort to the patient.
• Performs fingerstick procedures with correct technique and when unable to obtain specimen by venipuncture.
• Performs heelstick on babies with correct technique.
• Performs bleeding times according to procedure.
• Verifies all information for accuracy and performs order entry with no errors.
• Ensures a safe environment by instituting appropriate control measures.
• Attends annual education programs.
• Wears clean gloves when drawing all patients.
• Performs proper hand hygiene before and after contact with patients, following glove removal and prior to leaving the department.
• Disposes of needles in biohazard sharps containers.

Requirements

• Equivalent of four years of high school education
• One Year Of Full Time Experience Preferred
• Certified or certified eligible with National Phlebotomy Association preferred
• Successful completion of Phlebotomy training program and internship, or equivalent.

Qualifications

• Experience with specimen processing and handling preferred.

Skills

• Knowledge of techniques, procedures, and correct use of protective barrier equipment.
• Ability to follow the hospital exposure control plans/bloodborne and airborne pathogens.
• Ability to follow established guidelines for troubleshooting procedures.
• Ability to follow established guidelines for resolving patient specimen problems.
• Ability to troubleshoot instruments, equipment, reagents, and patient specimen's when problems occur.
• Ability to follow the chain of command if unable to solve the problem.

Benefits

Comprehensive Benefits Package- Medical & Dental coverage, 401K match, paid time off, tuition assistance and more!

Pay

N/A

Schedule

2nd Shift (1:30pm - 10:00pm)