JOB SUMMARY

Under the general direction of the Laboratory Director, the Medical Laboratory Assistant, Performs routine laboratory and general clerical tasks necessary for daily operation of laboratory, records observation and measurements, and reports results in accordance with TJC, federal, state, and local guidelines, organizational and departmental policies, and procedures. Communicates with medical staff, other departments, and outside agencies while maintaining confidentiality. Position requires self-motivation, creativity, and capabilities to function in a semi-autonomous role within a fast pace and dynamic environment.

STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE

• Ensures adherence to proper infection control, OSHA, CLIA, and safety standards.
• Maintains accurate and complete documentation on processes/procedures, patient information, and equipment maintenance, ensuring compliance with all accreditation regulations.
• Performs preventive maintenance on laboratory instruments and calibrates instruments as required.
• Monitors specimens received in laboratory for accurate packaging, labeling, and correct specimen collection requirements.
• Communicates with hospital nursing service, physicians, and others regarding testing of laboratory specimens.
• Escort members for urine specimen collection to the rest room and explain collection procedure.
• Order lab supplies as assigned by Laboratory Director.
• Assist lab director with Medonic maintenance including controls and scheduled cleanings and printing of daily and monthly quality controls and graphs.
• Reports all unexpected results and sterilization checks to supervisors.
• Enters specimen tracking, laboratory data and patient information in the computer.
• Answer incoming laboratory phone calls.
• Process and reconcile laboratory electronic billing claims to maximize proper reimbursements through clearinghouse portal.
• Always maintains patient confidentiality.
• Maintains an excellent working relationship with the medical profession and other related facilities and organizations.
• Assure that all chemicals and biologicals are labeled in accordance and in compliance with facility policies and procedures, and with regulations issued by governmental agencies, or by TJC.
• Assist in the proper disposal of chemicals and/or biologicals in accordance with current regulations, as well as our established policies and procedures.
• Assist with ensuring that adequate stock of reagents and other lab supplies is on hand to meet facility needs.
• Assist in identifying and correcting problem areas, and/or the improvement of services.
• Participates and assist in departmental studies and projects as assigned or that may become necessary.
• Participates in continuing education.
• Report hazardous conditions/equipment problems immediately to the Lab Director, and to maintenance, and record in the maintenance log.
• Accurately reports test results in a timely manner.
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Level of Education: A high school diploma or equivalent.

Licensure, Certification, Registration: Phlebotomy certification through ASCP, ASPT, NCA or equivalent agency is required within 12 months of hire.

Work Experience: One (1) year of experience as a phlebotomist, laboratory processor, laboratory assistant or related work experience required. Current enrollment in a Medical Technologist or Medical Laboratory Technician program may be substituted for experience.