Medical Lab Assistant

The Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) is responsible for collecting and accessioning patient specimens as directed by medical providers and governed by established procedures. The MLA is responsible for processing various bodily fluids using designated equipment following proper policies and procedures. Participation in quality control programs, proficiency testing, and participates in development of new technical procedures. Ensures high quality diagnostic testing and assists in maintaining compliance with regulatory agency standards. Performs all related clerical duties.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

: The following are primary tasks, duties, and standards for this job. However, additional skills and/or assignments may be given: Collections and/or prepares specimens such as blood, tissue, and body fluids according to established procedures and physician's orders. Order entry using the Laboratory Information System (LIS), to include, correct interpretation of written orders, and proper processing of electronic orders. Understanding and completing all instructions for reference laboratory sample preparations. Blood draws at partnered facilities if needed. Moderate complexity testing following established policies and procedures. Performs designated equipment maintenance including cleaning, emptying waste, and replenishing supplies as needed. Performing E-Screen drug test collections for St. Luke Employees and other E-screen accounts. Federal and Non-Federal drug screen collections. (Federal Department of Transportation certification available for those who are not certified) Faxing, filing, record keeping, and telephone system operation. Ability to openly communicate with all co-workers, staff, and healthcare providers to ensure high quality patient care.

PHYSICAL/MENTAL DEMANDS/ENVIRONMENT

The Laboratory Department Provides technical services in Chemistry, Hematology, Coagulation, Urinalysis, Serology, Blood Bank, and Microbiology. Phlebotomy will be performed with skill and compassion. The highest priority for this position is sample quality, accuracy, and processing. All errors MUST be brought to the attention of the Laboratory Technicians and/or Laboratory Manager immediately upon discovery. These occurrences must be properly documented. Strict adherence to policies and procedures for test performance is mandatory for this role. Staying current on these policies and procedures is the responsibility of the MLA. Strict patient confidentiality is strongly enforced. This position requires daily contact with providers, nursing staff, and other patient/resident care personnel. Excellent customer service skills are vital to this role. Ability to work independently, with strict attention to detail, and high-quality time management skills are required for this position. On-call rotation is mandatory for this position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

MLA (ASCP) Certification preferred but not required. Ability to obtain certification or enrollment in a NAACLS accredited Medical Laboratory Technician program, after 2 years of documented training, is required for this position. The position of Medical Laboratory Assistant requires the incumbent to learn and follow established policies, procedures, and schedules. Follow verbal and written instructions and maintain accurate records with high attention to detail.

EDUCATION

High School Diploma or equivalent.

EXPERIENCE

One year phlebotomy experience preferred but not required. Two years Laboratory Assistant experience preferred but not required. One year work experience in healthcare setting preferred but not required. Highly motivated individuals who has enthusiasm and willingness to take on new challenges are welcomed to apply.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES

Use of LIS for data collection and order entry. Interprets lab requisitions for accurate entry. Proper processing of electronically entered orders. Follows established policies and procedures for collecting and processing body fluids for testing. Performs clerical duties, including but not limited to, filing, faxing, telephone system, report processing, employee health records, and additional assistance as directed by Laboratory Technicians and/or Laboratory Manager. Perform moderate complexity testing as needed, following proper policies and procedures. Blood draws at partnered facilities if needed.

MEASURES OF EFFECTIVENESS

The following indicators of proficient performance in this position: Contribution to the efficient function of the lab throughout the entire testing process. Accurately perform waived testing. Willingness to listen and take instruction.