Medical Laboratory Assistant PT (12679)

## Description

**Job Summary**

The Laboratory Assistant processes clinical laboratory specimens and assists technical staff with laboratory procedures within their scope of training. This individual works under the direction of certified laboratory technicians.

**Essential Functions**

**Technical:**

• Successfully perform all phases of laboratory testing: pre-analytic, analytic, and post-analytic
• Working knowledge of electronic medical record (EMR) and laboratory information systems (LIS).
• Working knowledge of specimen collection requirements and rejection criteria.
• Perform specimen accessioning/processing including, sample labeling, centrifugation, pipetting, distribution, and storage.
• Accession addon testing and distribute specimens appropriately.
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot preanalytical equipment.
• Archive and dispose of lab specimens.
• Process and ship reference lab samples and review pending orders for completion.
• Perform waived and/or moderately complex assays per manufacturer instructions.
• Evaluate patient results and perform delta checks prior to approval.
• Process and distribute lab reports to appropriate individuals and institutions.
• Inventory and receive supplies and reagents according to lab protocol.

**QA/QC/Regulatory:**

• Report lab results within established turnaround times
• Document critical values in the LIS and notify physician staff.
• Correct patient results within the LIS and notify physician staff and management.
• Follow Westgard rules and recognize shifts/trends occurring on Levy-Jennings charts.
• Document out of range quality control values and take corrective action.
• Participate in continuous improvement activities, examine existing processes/procedures, and look for ways to improve them.
• Complete necessary documentation when specimen variance or adverse events occur.
• Perform proficiency testing as required.
• Adhere to all regulatory standards within the clinical laboratory.

**Safety/Organizational/Productivity:**

• Follow universal precautions and safety procedures established by the lab/compliance departments.
• Comply with clinical laboratory policy and procedures.
• Participate in the introduction and evaluation of new supplies and equipment.
• Train new staff as required.

**Communication/Teamwork:**

• Maintain positive working relationships with fellow staff and clinic personnel.
• Must be able to interact well with patients, employees, physicians, and management.
• Answer questions from patients and provider staff regarding the clinical laboratory.

## Qualifications
**Qualifications:**

• Must have excellent communication skills, both oral and written
• Must have excellent organizational skills to prioritize and manage tasks in a timely and effective manner.
• Must be willing to adapt to a flexible schedule and work environment.
• Act independently and accept responsibility for actions and performance.
• Complete competency assessments and 12 hours of continuing education annually.