ASSISTANT LAB TECHNICIAN

Position Summary

Under general supervision, this position is responsible for receipt, verification, and preparation of specimens, collection and processing of specimens in preparation for testing. Acts as a liaison between client office personnel and MGMC laboratory personnel to insure professional and efficient response to questions and concerns. This position contributes directly to patient care by accurately and timely processing specimens and dispersing information both in and outside the laboratory. Ensures all actions taken in carrying out responsibilities support patient centered care.

Position Responsibilities

Unit Specific Position Responsibilities

Collects blood specimens required for the tests ordered. This includes blood collection using the vacutainer system, syringe method, butterflies, and capillary collections from heals (babies only) or fingers.

Transports blood specimens to/from/within the laboratory to/from various locations within or outside the hospital, as assigned.

Enters collection and workload data into the laboratory and/or hospital computer system.

Performs nontechnical duties such as clerical and maintaining inventory supplies, as assigned.

Cleans phlebotomy equipment and maintains work area

Performs related work as required.

Collect difficult draws in phlebotomy. Willing to switch to phlebotomy coverage as needed.

Ensures specimen integrity in pre-analytical phase according to established written procedures including test ordering, receiving and processing specimens, specimen storage, forwarding specimens to referral laboratories, following quality guidelines and problem documentation.

Ensures patient and customer satisfaction through quick, efficient, and thorough responses to requests for services or information regardless of route (phone, fax, email, in person, pneumatic tube, etc.); “owning” the request until resolution or another person accepts ownership.

Ensures the overall quality and safety of laboratory processes through active participation in performance and quality improvement activities; adhering to all laboratory policies and procedures; maintaining competency in all job functions and responsibilities; continuing education in areas of responsibility.

Prepare specimens for transport according to Department of Transportation regulations.

Prepare specimens for shipment to outside reference laboratories.

Assesses specimen acceptability for specimen type, volume, hemolysis, clots, time past collection, duplication, and appropriate collection guidelines; and appropriately cancels accessions due to misordering, unacceptable specimens, uncollected work, or by request of other healthcare employees.

Supports, participates in and complies to LEAN work and productivity standards.

Performs Legal Urine Collections and Breath Alcohol Testing.

Load laboratory analyzers with samples and reagents as trained to perform.

Report CLIA waived written results into Epic Beaker such as CoaguChek INR and Hemoccult results.

Perform CLIA waived laboratory testing if Medical Laboratory Assistant Certified.

Communicates with physicians, nurses, patients, the general public and outside organizations; informs the public and answers concerns on AIDS testing, well-patient testing, and blood donation.

Registers, orders, and accessions specimens utilizing the laboratory and hospital information systems by entering and/or verifying patient information.

Matches requested tests to Laboratory offered tests.

Follows all MGMC policies regarding coding and Medicare compliance.

Prioritizes specimens and relays special requests, and all additional information.

Qualifications, Knowledge & Experience

Required Qualifications (Including any licensure, certification, education):

Organizational Requirements:

Maintain stroke education per regulatory requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

Highschool diploma or GED

Graduate of an accredited phlebotomy training facility

National Medical Laboratory Assistant Certification

Required Knowledge, Skills & Experience:

Must be able to read, write, and speak fluent English.

Skills in performing automated and manual test procedures.

Ability to demonstrate clinical competence and maintain current knowledge in caring for neonatal through geriatric patients.

Basic computer skills (mouse, keyboard, internet).

Active listening skills, giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times

Preferred Knowledge, Skills & Experience:

Phlebotomy experience

Lab Assistant experience