LAB ASSISTANT – CENTRAL PROCESSING

Job Description

General Purpose of Job:

Sort & handle incoming & outgoing laboratory specimens.

Essential Duties:

This job description is intended to cover the minimum essential duties assigned on a regular basis. Caregivers may be asked to perform additional duties as assigned by their leader. Leadership has the right to alter or modify the duties of the position.

• Receive & sort specimens, including blood, bodily fluid, & tissue;
• Evaluate specimens for correct identification & suitability for testing;
• Properly prepare specimens for testing by centrifuging, aliquoting, & labelling, adhering to published procedures & guidelines;
• Follow established best practices to ensure that Patients, orders, & specimens are always identified & labelled correctly;
• Prioritize work based on Patient type & sample priority;
• Prepare specimens for transport & storage, deliver appropriate specimens to designated laboratory section for testing;
• Use a computer to verify sample collection information, retrieve patient test data, & enter data;
• Track specimens & work pending lists to identify incomplete tests & problems;
• Resolve problems by taking appropriate actions as dictated by the circumstances;
• Communicate effectively, & in accordance with the ICARE values, in-person, via the telephone, & via email;
• Assist in training new Caregivers;
• Maintain inventory, replenish stock & supplies;
• Perform technical, clerical, & service duties as assigned, including (but not limited to: equipment cleaning & maintenance, emptying trash, washing dishes, taking & recording temperatures, filing & retrieving specimens, handling biohazard & chemical waste);
• Follow instructions given by Clinical Laboratory Scientists, Pathologists, & Leaders.

Job Requirements

General Requirements	* N/A
Work experience	* Experience in a clinical laboratory preferred
education	* High school diploma or GED. * Completed two college level science courses or 1 year of laboratory experience. * Recent completion of a course in Medical Terminology or completion within 60 days following employment.
Specialized Knowledge and Skills	* Ability to read, follow directions, & perform procedures associated with specimen collection, handling & processing. * Ability to recognize problems & take corrective actions. * Ability to communicate effectively & professionally both in person & via the telephone. * Ability to work well under pressure & to handle crisis situations. * Ability to function as part of a team dedicated to Patient care. * Ability to use a keyboard as required to perform the essential duties of the job. * Ability to follow instructions. * Knowledge of anatomy & physiology preferred. * Familiarity with Microsoft Office products, SoftLab, Lifepoint, Epic, & WindoPath preferred.