Laboratory Assistant/ Phlebotomist

The role of Laboratory Assistant encompasses many areas of the laboratory.  Laboratory Assistants perform phlebotomy and drug screen collections; receive and process specimens; occasionally perform some technical procedures under direct supervision; access information in computer, register patients, order tests and perform charting functions.  They play a key role in the pre-analytic and post-analytic process of specimen testing.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES – 

Performed majority of the time -- 

·       Performs phlebotomy collections from inpatients and outpatients, assuring proper patient identification prior to collection; properly labeling specimens; and promptly assuring specimen is received into the laboratory for testing.

·       Assures that samples are processed promptly and distributed to appropriate testing location.

·       Provides input for revising and presenting new procedures for Clinical Services and/or work team.

·       Keeps work areas clean and well stocked.  Assists with supply ordering and restocking, as needed.

·       Performs computer registration and order entry for patients and/or received specimens.

·       Maintains competency and performs drug screen collections to meet Federal guidelines.

·       Communicates with physicians, nursing staff and Clinical Services Team to ensure proper procurement of specimens, and that correct orders are placed.

·       Distributes completed patient reports to appropriate locations.

·       Calls abnormal results as specified in laboratory policies or by specified provider request.

·       Provides care appropriate to the age of patients served, neonate, infant, pediatric, adolescent, adult, and geriatric.

·       Follows up unusual test requests by researching and consulting with appropriate reference laboratories to assure correct testing is performed.

·       Arranges for couriers and cabs for prompt specimen pickup, as needed.

·       Follows up all problems or errors by collecting documentation for Lab Director and/or pathologists, assisting with reviewing problem and retraining of staff involved.

·       Aids in solving problems or concerns regarding specimen, paperwork or test results.

·       Aids in answering phones, taking orders and transmitting results to authorized personnel.

Performed occasionally but critical to successful performance of the job:

·       Looks for ways to improve customer service.

·       Supports team and patient care during absence of co-workers by being available to cover vacation and sick time.

·       Acquires accurate billing related information from providers when needed.

·       Participates in training of employees to assure that all lab staff receives appropriate training and maintain competency in Clinical Services.

Decision making and budget responsibilities (e.g. impact limited to the employee, entire unit or organization-wide):

·       Limited to the employee.

Education:

Required

·       High school diploma or equivalent.

Preferred

·       Associate’s degree or higher.

Experience:

Required

·        

Preferred

·       (1) year related experience.

·       Experience in phlebotomy, processing.

Licenses, Certifications and/or Registrations:

Required

·        

Preferred

·       Certificate of completion from Lab Assistant, Medical Assistant or CNA accredited program.

·       ASCP or NCA Phlebotomy certificate.

Job Related Skills, Abilities and Behaviors:

Required

·       Assumes responsibility for maintaining competency in all areas where training was completed.

·       Keeps abreast of new computer functions, computer usage and changes having to do with computers and printers.

·       Demonstrates confidentiality according to PHI regarding patient and co-worker information according to PHI level of access.

·       Follows organizational departmental policies and procedures and carries out duties in all areas where training and documentation of competency have been documented.

·       Functions as a cooperative laboratory team member, supporting others.

·       Must be able to speak, read and write conversational English. 

·       Typing and previous computer use.

·       Possesses knowledge and skills through experience and/or training to be able to provide care appropriate to the age of patients served in this job.

·       Ability to be thorough and accurate in paperwork.

·       Uses effective communication skills.

·       Personal appearance makes a good first impression.

·       Excellent customer service skills a must.

·       Flexible, able to work to meet the needs of the department.

Preferred

·       Word processing.

·       Medical terminology.

·       Laboratory terminology

·       Bilingual skills a plus.