Clinical Laboratory Assistant

Job Summary

Processing biological specimens for laboratory analysis and preparing samples to send to the Reference Laboratory. Performs pre-analytical quality assurance checks on specimens, enters physician laboratory test orders into the LIS. Specimen collection to include neonate to geriatric populations, legal specimen collection and urine drug screen DOT/non-DOT collection. Communicates with physicians and medical staff to clarify orders and troubleshoot ordering issues. Performs CLIA waived and moderately-complex tests, understand and follow procedures and operate and perform routine maintenance on standard laboratory equipment (centrifuges, incubators, pneumatic tube system).

Essential Functions

Specimen Collection
· Properly identifies all patients using 2 patient identifiers (name, DOB) and labels all specimens according to SJMC policies.
· Follows procedures for properly collecting patient specimens (phlebotomy, UA collection, finger and heel sticks) in all situations (routine, trauma, legal, DOT or disaster).
· Ensures that phlebotomy trays and area are fully stocked prior to shift end.

Specimen Processing
· Performs pre-analytical Quality Assurance checks and documents completely.
· Ensures that the correct tests are ordered for all outpatient draws with orders.
· Follows documentation and change order procedures.
· Communicates with staff, patients and physicians about clarification on orders.

Reference Labs
· Process all Reference Lab tests accurately (preparation, aliquots, labels, correct temperature, packing, sending).
· Monitors Reference Lab delay in testing reports and following up with issues.

Communication
· Answers questions from phone calls or directs the phone call to the appropriate person, faxes results, addresses questions from patients and hospital staff at the laboratory front desk, and communicates with the Scientists about specimen samples.

CLIA waived and moderately-waived kit testing
· Perform and result testing in accordance with procedure manuals.
· Perform Quality Control and concurrent testing monthly or as indicated by the procedure.

Job Requirements

Minimum Education

Required: High school diploma or equivalent.

Preferred: AS or BS Degree in any Applied Sciences.

Minimum Work Experience

Required: Demonstrates experience with MS Word and Excel. Good communication skills (written and verbal).

Preferred: 1 year of phlebotomy and laboratory experience.

Required Licenses: BLS and Phlebotomy certificate required at time of hire

Functional Demands

Working Conditions

Hospital Clinical Laboratory, OP draw room and St. John’s Health facilities. Exposure to infectious, flammable and caustic agents; working in small, closed areas and subject to high stress. Must be on-site at the St. John’s Health campus or other facilities to fulfill the responsibilities of this role.

Physical Requirements

30% of the time sitting and computer use. 70% of the time standing or walking. Ability to lift 25 pounds. Bending and reaching required. Manual dexterity essential. Must be able to pass color blind test upon hire.

Direct Reports: None

Reports to: Manager Clinical Laboratory

**Internal and External Contacts:**Patients, patient families, all hospital staff, practitioners and their office staff.

Leadership Capabilities

Attention to Detail

• Completes tasks in a way that ensures there are no errors
• Methodically and patiently reviews work to identify any mistakes or discrepancies
• Creates and stores documentation in a way that is thorough and easy to access

Problem Solving

• Uses logic and methods to solve problems with effective solutions
• Can see hidden problems
• Looks beyond the obvious and doesn't stop at the first answers

Dealing with Ambiguity

• Copes effectively with change
• Handles risk and uncertainty comfortably

Interpersonal Skills

• Relates well to all kinds of people, up, down and sideways, inside and outside the organization
• Builds appropriate rapport
• Uses diplomacy and tact

Time Management

• Uses his/her time effectively and efficiently
• Concentrates his/her efforts on the more important priorities
• Gets more done in less time than others