Laboratory Assistant

Laboratory Assistant

This job performs various laboratory functions which support the department which may include phlebotomy; specimen receiving and processing into the LIS; centrifugation; aliquoting, labeling and distribution of specimens to the appropriate test sites. Performs waived and moderately complex procedures; maintain and monitor equipment; and perform appropriate quality control.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties.

This job description is a summary of the primary duties and responsibilities of the job and position. It is not intended to be a comprehensive or all-inclusive listing of duties and responsibilities. Contents are subject to change at the company's discretion.

Education

Required - High School diploma or equivalent

Preferred - Formal phlebotomy training

Work Experience

Required - Experience working in a controlled environment, following safety measures to minimize exposure to chemicals, body fluids, blood borne pathogens, etc.

Preferred - 1 year hospital based phlebotomy experience

Certifications

Required - Current License as a Laboratory Assistant or Laboratory Assistant Trainee in the state of practice. The Laboratory Assistant Trainee license will only be valid for this position during the first 180 days from the date of hire. Louisiana License as a Laboratory Assistant must be acquired and submitted to laboratory management within 180 days from date of hire

Knowledge Skills and Abilities (KSAs)

• Must have computer skills and dexterity required for data entry and retrieval of information.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills and the ability to present information clearly and professionally.
• Must be proficient with Windows-style applications, various software packages specific to role and keyboard.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Analytical skills necessary to operate laboratory computers, printers and laboratory equipment.
• Judgment skills necessary to identify and solve problems as well as handle difficult situations.
• Self-directed with the ability to work independently.
• Ability to read and perform basic math calculations.
• Ability to manage stress in order to maintain a professional atmosphere and provide quality service.

Job Duties

• Performs specimen collection.
• Processes orders.
• Performs patient testing and specimen set up.
• Performs and documents quality control and meets all educational requirements.
• Orders, inventories and stocks supplies.
• Adapts behavior to the specific patient population, including but not limited to: respect for privacy, method of introduction to the patient, adapting explanation of services or procedures to be performed, requesting permissions and communication style.
• Other related duties as required.

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work only. They are not an exhaustive list of all required responsibilities, duties, and skills. Other duties may be added, or this description amended at any time.

Remains knowledgeable on current federal, state and local laws, accreditation standards or regulatory agency requirements that apply to the assigned area of responsibility and ensures compliance with all such laws, regulations and standards.

This employer maintains and complies with its Compliance & Privacy Program and Standards of Conduct, including the immediate reporting of any known or suspected unethical or questionable behaviors or conduct; patient/employee safety, patient privacy, and/or other compliance-related concerns.

The employer is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability status.

Physical and Environmental Demands 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. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Medium Work - Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects. (Constantly: activity or condition exists 2/3 or more of the time) to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for Sedentary Work. Even though the weight lifted may be only a negligible amount, a job should be rated Light Work: (1) when it requires walking or standing to a significant degree; or (2) when it requires sitting most of the time but entails pushing and/or pulling of arm or leg controls; and/or (3) when the job requires working at a production rate pace entailing the constant pushing and/or pulling of materials even though the weight of those materials is negligible. NOTE: The constant stress and strain of maintaining a production rate pace, especially in an industrial setting, can be and is physically demanding of a worker even though the amount of force exerted is negligible.

Ability to work in a medium to heavy activity with the ability to sit/stand at a counter/bench approximately 2 - 3 ft. high and to move freely about the campus.

Must be able to transport items up to 30 lbs. (i.e.: supply boxes, files, 24 hr urine containers, etc.)

Must be able to bend, reach and/or stoop while performing various functions.

Must have mental and visual acuity and ability to discern colors.

Duties performed routinely require exposure to blood, body fluid and tissue.

The incumbent works in a patient care area; works in an area where patients enter; works directly with patients; and/or works with specimens that could contain communicable diseases. There may be an occupational risk for exposure to communicable diseases.

Because the incumbent works within a healthcare setting, there may be occupational risk for exposure to hazardous medications or hazardous waste within the environment through receipt, transport, storage, preparation, dispensing, administration, cleaning and/or disposal of contaminated waste. The risk level of exposure may increase depending on the essential job duties of the role.

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