Medical Laboratory Assistant, Core Lab (Medical Labs)

Works in various areas of the laboratory, registering patients, collecting samples, and assessing the acceptability of samples for testing. Processes samples for testing including centrifugation, aliquoting, storage, and shipping. Provides support for clinical testing including preparation of slides, loading instruments, and result reporting. Performs waived and point-of-care testing.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1.Collects laboratory specimens.

• Laboratory specimens are collected following laboratory procedures and policies.
• Patient identifiers are verified prior to collection in accordance with department policy.
• Specimen collection is conducted in a timely and productive manner.
• All collection devices and specimens are handled and disposed following Standard Precautions and other applicable safety policies.

2. Operates Pneumatic Tube system (PTS).

• Specimens are packaged properly for safe transport.
• Specimens are transported to correct locations.
• Specimens not approved for transport in pneumatic tube system are identified and handled according to departmental policy.
• Investigation into specimens possibly lost in the PTS are initiated promptly

3. Ensures all specimens received meet specimen acceptance criteria.

• Specimens are evaluated for adherence to labeling criteria prior to electronic accession process.
• Time-sensitive specimens are identified when received in the Laboratory and processed according to policy.
• Problem resolution of specimens not meeting acceptance criteria is initiated in a timely manner.
• Problem resolution of ‘precious specimens’ are referred to a resident for investigation and approval when applicable.

4. Enters written and receives electronic orders for Laboratory requests into Laboratory Computer System.

• Laboratory test requests are entered/received accurately on each patient.
• Requests are entered/received according to priority.
• Add-on orders are processed promptly.

5. Processes laboratory specimens.

• Specimens are processed according to test requirements.
• Specimens are stored at correct temperature after processing.
• Specimens are processed without labeling errors occurring.
• Specimens not requiring processing are identified as such.

6. Performs limited laboratory testing in accordance with regulatory agency requirements.

• Laboratory tests are performed accurately.
• Tests are reported within laboratory’s stated Turn-Around-Time (TAT).
• Results are reviewed, defined variances are rechecked, and critical results are communicated to health care providers in accordance with departmental and organizational policies.
• Proper patient identification procedures are followed throughout all steps from sample receipt to result verification according to department policy.

7. Performs supply inventory, instrument maintenance and troubleshooting.

• Inventory is completed and supplies restocked in a timely manner.
• Routine instrument maintenance is performed and documented on a scheduled basis, consistent with departmental policy.
• Basic troubleshooting of equipment is performed with minimal downtime.
• Accurate records of problems and resolution related to inventory and equipment are maintained.

8. Performs Quality Control (QC) functions.

• QC material analysis is performed and results recorded in accordance with departmental policy.
• QC results are reviewed to ensure compliance with departmental policy and regulatory requirements.
• Resolution of unacceptable QC results is initiated and achieved prior to patient testing.
• Documentation of resolution steps for unacceptable results is maintained and communicated to appropriate supervisors/personnel.

9. Investigates, documents and resolves problems or complaints.

• Problems are resolved with proper consultation and follow-up documentation.
• Customer complaints are handled professionally and in a timely manner.
• Unresolved problems are communicated to a supervisor or incoming shift staff.
• Cancelled test requests are called and documented according to Medical Laboratory policies.
• Inquiries, including phone calls, are answered courteously, and information is communicated to appropriate staff.

10. Serves as trainer and role model for new team members and health care professional students.

• Procedures are explained in an accurate manner.
• Training documentation is completed accurately in a timely manner.
• Assessment of trainees, including problems or concerns, is provided and communicated constructively.
• Trainees are supervised at all times.

11. Performs area-specific suppor