Overview The Medical Laboratory Assistant is a vital member of the Laboratory team in a hospital setting. This individual plays a key role in supporting the MLT/MLS in performing a variety of laboratory procedures to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. The primary responsibilities include specimen processing, specimen shipping (send-outs), analyzer loading, waived testing, PCR testing, laboratory maintenance, data entry, and adherence to quality control and safety protocols. This is a supportive role that does not include resulting reporting.

Responsibilities Specimen Processing:

• Load samples onto laboratory analyzers as needed
• Specimen acceptability for testing
• Specimen prioritization and distribution
• Specimen processing (e.g., centrifugation, aliquoting)
• Specimen storage; specimen transport
• Special handling considerations (time, temperature, and light)
• Specimen transport to include preparation for shipment, specimen requirement verification, packing, tracking and follow-up on send-out specimens.
• Receive and log clinical specimens for microbiological analysis.
• Prepare slides for microscopic examination and perform initial culture setup

Laboratory Procedures:

• Preparation, labeling, and staining of slides
• Waived testing
• Microbiology setup and plating
• Processes related to reagents, standards, and controls
• Analytical instrumentation (loading, test initiation, error recognition and reporting, specimen dilution, and calibrations)
• Quality control
• Critical values and STAT results
• Result retrieval and reporting
• Inventory maintenance

Data Entry and Record Keeping:

• Accurately enter and maintain laboratory patient information in the laboratory information system (LIS).
• Maintain detailed records of all laboratory procedures, ensuring completeness and compliance with regulatory standards.
• Accurately enter and maintain laboratory patient information in the laboratory information system (LIS).
• Maintain detailed records of all laboratory procedures, ensuring completeness and compliance with regulatory standards.

Quality Control:

• Follow established quality control procedures to ensure the accuracy and reliability of laboratory results.
• Participate in proficiency testing programs and assist in the implementation of quality improvement initiatives.
• Perform New lot/new shipment QC and monthly

QC Inventory Management:

• Assess inventory daily
• Put away reagents and supplier orders

Data Integrity:

• Ensure the integrity and confidentiality of patient data and laboratory records.
• Follow data management best practices and assist in maintaining data security.

Compliance/Safety:

• Perform instrument maintenance as outlined.
• Adhere to all safety protocols and guidelines to ensure a safe working environment.
• Comply with regulatory requirements and assist in audits and inspections.

Other Essential Functions:

• Undertake additional special project responsibilities and tasks as delegated by the Clinical Microbiologist II, Clinical Leads, MLS, MLT, Clinical Supervisors, Laboratory Manager, and/or Laboratory Director
• Act as a float and assist in areas of demand as needed.

Qualifications Education:

Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science, Microbiology, or a related field. -

Required Certification & Licensures:

ASCP Medical Laboratory Assistant Certification -

Preferred Experience:

Previous experience in a clinical laboratory setting is preferred, but may not be necessary depending on other factors such as certifications and college education