Laboratory Assistant

Overview Obtains and/or prepares specimens for laboratory testing. Frequently participates in accessioning, testing and reporting functions. Performs functions in the analysis and reporting of laboratory data, review of specimen logs and completion of daily and periodic quality control.

Responsibilities

Receives specimens in the laboratory utilizing knowledge of the age specific laboratory needs of the patient. Performs clerical duties as necessary to process laboratory specimens and reports, including reference lab reports, work lists and department logs. Answers the phone and assists the customer as much as possible. Refers questions and complaints to the appropriate level or individual. Assists with inventory management, ordering and restocking of all supplies. Checks, inspects and ensures proper storage and handling. Responsible for all documentation required for all of the tests performed. Checks and records temperatures on refrigerators, incubators, freezers and/or other temperature sensitive equipment. Performs specimen management including accessioning, preparation for testing, storage, location of specimens for additional testing. Disposes of specimens according to department and infection control policies and procedures. Routinely performs diagnostic testing under the guidance of certified personnel in accordance with training and documented competency. Loads instruments for testing. In pathology, may assist pathologists and/or pathology assistant with frozen sections or autopsies. Performs all required quality control and preventive maintenance in accordance with policies and competency assessment. Answers alarms for tube system or automation. Assists in the orientation of new staff or students as assigned. DCH Standards: Maintains performance, patient and employee satisfaction and financial standards as outlined in the performance evaluation. Performs compliance requirements as outlined in the Employee Handbook. Must adhere to the DCH Behavioral Standards including creating positive relationships with patients/families, coworkers, colleagues and with self. Performs essential job functions in a manner that ensures the safety of patients, visitors and employees. Identifies and reduces unsafe practices that may result in harm to patients, visitors and employees. Recognizes and takes appropriate action to reduce risks and hazards to promote safety for patients, visitors and employees. Requires use of electronic mail, time and attendance software, learning management software and intranet. Must adhere to all DCH Health System policies and procedures. All other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

High school graduate or possess a GED certificate. Certification by a nationally recognized phlebotomy agency (ASPT, NCA, ASCP, AMT) plus one year of phlebotomy experience is preferred. In lieu of phlebotomy certification, applicants may have an associate degree or baccalaureate degree in biology or chemistry from an accredited institution. Must be able to operate general office equipment, computers and general laboratory equipment. If driving is required for job duties, possesses a valid driver’s license and must be insurable by DCH auto insurance. Abilities are demonstrated in areas of assigned responsibilities by successful completion of annual laboratory competency testing. Must be able to read, write legibly, speak, and comprehend English. Able to stand, walk, and sit for long periods of time, reach and bend, with or without accommodation. Is able to lift a maximum of 50 pounds with frequent lifting and/or carrying objects weighing up to 20 pounds. Ability to lift with assistance objects weighing up to 100 pounds. Vision and hearing must be normal or corrected to within normal. Normal color vision for those tasks requiring color differentiation. Includes exposure to human body fluids, disease, infection, laboratory chemicals and hazardous material. Requires wearing common protective or safety equipment. Physical presence on site is essential. Able to perform the duties with or without reasonable accommodation. Frequent interaction with others in the Laboratory and other departments in person, by telephone or by email, to resolve issues with patient care that are impacted by laboratory testing. Due to the emotional and/or emergency nature of patient care some customers may be unpleasant, angry or discourteous in their requests for Laboratory services.