SR LAB ASSISTANT

Responsibilities

• Customer service and specimen collection is recognized as the first priority.
• Transcribes medical orders in a timely manner, orders the appropriate laboratory tests as indicated for patients, lab contracts, and specimens.
• Follows-up on all verbal orders with requests for written orders.
• Answers the departmental telephones and transfers calls to proper laboratory/pathology section; follows through with problem resolution; assists physicians/staff in obtaining, faxing or telephone receipt of laboratory test results; and responsible for strict adherence to proper handling of confidential test results.
• Processes all specimens including accessioning; recognition of test priorities; centrifugation; separation/processing, logging, and special collection requirements.
• Collects blood samples from venous and/or capillary (heel or finger) sites as required by facility.
• Uses aseptic technique in the collection of blood culture specimens.
• Accurately labels all specimens.
• Uses blood bank armband and labeling system.
• Adheres to proper identification of patient’s name and DOB by hospital armband and by asking the patient his/her name, or by asking the RN to visually identify the patient.
• Adheres to proper disposal of needles/sharps, and used gloves during phlebotomy.
• Maintains clerical and phlebotomy work areas in a neat and sanitary manner.
• Participates in Laboratory performance improvement activities.
• Complies with Laboratory policies and procedures, including Exposure Control, Chemical Hygiene Plan, Disaster Plan, the Joint Commission standards, CLIA and State regulations.
• May be a resource for difficult sticks.
• Follows policies, procedures, and safety standards.
• Completes required education assignments annually.
• Works toward achieving goals and objectives, and participates in quality improvement initiatives as requested.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Minimum Education: None specified; will accept any combination of formal education and/or prior work experience sufficient to demonstrate possession of the knowledge, skill and ability needed to perform the essential tasks of the job, typically such as would be equivalent to a high school diploma or GED.
• Preference may be given to individuals possessing a HS diploma or GED.
• Minimum Experience: None
• Licensure Requirement: Certification by NCA, ASCP, ASPT, or comparable institution is desirable.