Laboratory Assistant

Overview

The Laboratory Assistant is responsible for the performance of basic assigned Laboratory tasks.

Responsibilities

• Performs specific duties in one or more of the following areas:
• Collects blood by performing venipunctures and/or capillary punctures, and other patients' specimens.
• Performs physical part of urinalysis.
• Records specimens and performs record keeping pertaining to the job.
• Prepare media.
• Inoculates bacteriology specimens.
• Prepares parasitology specimens.
• Prepares blood specimens for examination.
• Prepares equipment and glassware for special tests, if applicable.
• May cut pathological specimens and prepare for physician review, if applicable.
• May stain and coverslip slides, if applicable.
• May perform EKG's, EEG's and Holter monitor hookups as required.
• May wash glassware and pipettes as required.
• Answers telephone and delivers reports to nurses' stations.
• May assist with autopsies, where applicable.
• May be assigned to one specific area of the Pathology/Clinical Laboratory to provide technical assistance as required.
• Assists in keeping supplies at stock level.
• Completes daily log sheets.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Education

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent required.
• Some science classes desirable.
• Must have taken and passed a phlebotomy training program within the last five (5) years.

Experience

Candidates must meet one of the following qualifications:

• One (1) year of prior acceptable experience in laboratory technique, covering at least fifty percent (50%) of the clinical duties required in the position; OR
• Nine (9) semester hours of laboratory-related college science courses from an accredited college or university, or successful completion of a Medical Assistant program of at least nine (9) months; OR
• Satisfactory completion of at least fourteen (14) weeks of a basic course in laboratory technique offered by one of the branches of the Armed Forces with at least six (6) months of experience in general laboratory work; OR
• Satisfactory completion of an approved CNA or LPN curriculum within the last four (4) years.
• Three (3) months of orientation required to determine proficiency in the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities.

Required Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

• Knowledge of specimen collection techniques and laboratory procedures.
• Ability to perform phlebotomy procedures accurately and safely.
• Ability to identify patients and label specimens accurately.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with patients, providers, and laboratory staff.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Knowledge of infection control and safety procedures.
• Ability to work effectively in a clinical and laboratory environment.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times.