LAB ASSISTANT

The Lab Assistant demonstrates excellent customer service performance in that his/her attitude and actions are always consistent with the standards contained in the Vision, Mission and Values of Covenant and the commitment to Keeping our Promise of Caring. This individual has documented training for the processing of patient specimens prior to testing and analysis. Training ensures the skills required for proper specimen collection, handling and processing. The skills required include proper instrument use, and performing preventative maintenance under the supervision of Histology and Cytology Technologists.

Demonstrates excellent customer service.

Contributes to organization success targets for patient satisfaction and net operating margin.

Demonstrates a positive attitude in the workplace showing dependability, cooperation, and desire to produce the most accurate, timely and cost-effective results attainable.

Assists in the training of new employees under direct control of the General Supervisor.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

Performs all necessary clerical duties including, but not limited to, answering telephones, filing, and computerized order entry.

Maintains proper communication with physicians, nursing staff, laboratory personnel, coworkers, supervision and administration.

Follows laboratory procedures for specimen suitability for testing.

Adheres to the laboratory quality control policies.

Documents activities, instruments and procedural calibrations and maintenance performed including troubleshooting.

Capable of identifying problems that may adversely affect test performance or reporting of test results. Immediately notify the General Supervisor or designated Charge Technologist who will correct the problem or immediately notify the Technical Supervisor.

Comply with all Covenant and Laboratory policies, procedures and safety practices.

Demonstrates working knowledge of appropriate safety protocol to include universal precautions, MSDS safety program, use of personal protective equipment in designated areas, and performs proper hand washing techniques.

Places electronic laboratory orders and assigns the appropriate laboratory billing code (CPT) for each specimen type and block/slide quantity.

Inspect specimens prior to transport, for proper labeling requirements and specimen type.

Verifies collection information on computer and documentation on log sheets.

Prepares tissue specimens for gross examination.

Reviews morning reports checking for incomplete reports.

Types Anatomical Path report headings, preparing report for transcription.

Transports specimens utilizing the pneumatic tube system or physical transportation to the Laboratory.

Processes reference laboratory specimens for transportation with necessary documentation.

Prepares slide trays and reports for Pathologist review.

Processes gyn and non-gyn specimens for review by the cytologist.

Prepares and delivers slide trays to pathologists as needed.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

High School education or equivalent.

College level Anatomy and Physiology preferred.

Medical Terminology course preferred.

Minimum of 1 year laboratory, phlebotomy or surgical assistant experience preferred.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

Skill using equipment such as glass slides, sharp instruments, and histology instrumentation.

Knowledge of LIS applications.

Strong verbal and communication skills.

Attention to detail in specimen manipulation.

Ability to prioritize and multitask.

Ability to use independent judgment and work autonomously.

Ability to meet/exceed timelines/deadlines consistently.

Knowledge of computers and word processing programs.