Laboratory Assistant

Department: Laboratory SVH Exempt: No Schedule: VARIABLE Position Type: Full Time 0.6 FTE or More FTE: 0.000001 Base Wage $24.32 to $36.19 Location: Skagit Valley Hospital The information described in this job description has been designed to indicate the general nature of the work performed. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job. Other information: Job Summary The information described in this job description has been designed to indicate the general nature of the work performed. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job. The Laboratory Assistant is dedicated to providing quality service in a timely, courteous, and cost effective manner and will work in tandem with the Medical technologists, the nursing staff and the physicians to help provide quality diagnostic service to our customers. This position may float to other locations in support of patient care/organization need. Works effectively and cooperatively within the workplace. Location specific tasks and competencies may apply. Essential Functions Phlebotomy: Checks laboratory requisition for tests ordered. Properly identifies the patient by checking their name band or by asking the patient to identify themselves (to include their full name and date of birth). Performs venipuncture or capillary puncture with minimal trauma to patient, using aseptic technique, and correct equipment according to phlebotomy manual procedures. Assures proper management and administration of proper procedures for newborns through adults to include geriatric patients. Properly labels all blood tubes as outlined by the policy. If unsuccessful after 2 venipuncture attempts, consults with another lab staff member. If tech is working alone, he/she will assess whether to attempt another venipuncture or notify the nurse/physician of the situation. Process the tubes properly as required by the tests ordered. Specimen Accessioning: Properly labels tube and the appropriate requisition with the specimen number. Enters the patient demographics into the laboratory computer system accurately. Enters the specimen information and test requested properly to insure appropriate billing and assure that all test ordered are run. Reporting Results: Accurately enter and review results in the laboratory computer. Deliver reports in a timely manner to the nurses station and physicians boxes. Specimen Collection: Collect nasal smears, throat cultures and eye cultures as ordered by the physician. Communicate effectively and cooperatively in the workplace. Complete all mandatory learning requirements in a timely manner. Maintain current licensure and/or certification as required. Attend and actively participate in all department, team and/or committee meetings. Comply with all Skagit Regional Health, department and location specific policies and procedures. Perform other duties as assigned by Supervisor or designee. Education High School graduate or GED required. Experience/Training At least six months previous hospital lab experience preferred. License/Certifications Current Washington State Medical Assistant Phlebotomy (MA-P, PC) OR Medical Assistant - Certified (MA-C) license required. Other Skills None required. Physical Demands and Work Environment The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear. Repetitive tasks such as typing, sitting, answering phones, and interacting with computers and computer systems most of the day is a function of the position. This position is very active and requires standing, sitting, walking, bending, kneeling, stooping, and crouching all day. The employee must frequently lift or move objects up to 20 pounds and position patients to perform phlebotomy. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to focus. Skagit Regional Health offers a comprehensive benefit package including medical, dental, vision, 457b/401a (retirement), long term disability, and paid time off to all employees holding an FTE of 20 or more hours per week. Eligible employees also receive sick time pay.