Jobs for People with MS: National MS Society

Title:Lab Assistant Reports to:Ancillary Services Manager FLSA Status:Non-Exempt Personnel Supervised:None

POSITION SUMMARY: This position performs the daily duties of clinical lab operations and testing to include; phlebotomy, other specimen collection as ordered, EKGs, completion of lab requisitions, computer entry and data retrieval, basic x-rays if licensed and trained in x-ray technique, processing of in-house and send-out lab results in collaboration with nursing and provider staff, calibration and quality control of lab equipment, operation of Cell-Dyn, or other CBC systems, including waived and moderately complex testing, preparation of lab specimens for transport, data entry and other duties as assigned by the Ancillary Services Manager.

MINIMAL QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School Diploma
• Medical Assistant with Phlebotomy training or minimum of two years' experience in Phlebotomy
• Active BLS
• Phlebotomy skills
• Computer skills

SPECIAL SKILLS:

• Excellent eye / hand coordination
• Ability to deal effectively with stress related to performance of multiple activities simultaneously
• Organizational skills
• Operate equipment (computers, calculators, etc.)
• Reading/understanding forms, instructions/technical information
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Knowledge of safety regulations and appropriate safety measures, OSHA / CLIA / COLA standards, etc.
• Ability to identify deviations from expectations
• Ability to respond in an affirmative manner to constructive criticism

RESPONSIBILTIES AND PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Obtain proficient knowledge of CFHC's programs' philosophies, goals and objectives. Comply with all policies and procedures as well as state and federal guidelines.
2. Understand the requirements of CFHC's exposure control plan. Utilize Universal Precautions.
3. Provide off hours coverage as needed.
4. Attend Laboratory staff meetings.
5. Assist with Quality Control logs and documentation.
6. Perform in-house testing expediently, including EKGs. Date stamp and direct all lab results to Nursing staff for Provider review in a timely manner. Maintain back-up copies of all lab results.
7. Label all collected specimens and complete lab requisitions appropriately. Make necessary notation on encounter tickets for completed lab work.
8. Ensure that all specimens are properly packed for transport.
9. Maintain daily logs of all labs obtained and insure receipt of all reports from reference laboratory.
10. Follow-up on all written or verbal reports of critical lab values; report these values to the ordering provider or nurse if provider is absent.
11. Review all lab results for inconsistencies/errors, or problems. Follow-up with reference laboratory on any apparently erroneous lab results, requesting re-evaluation as necessary. Consult lab supervisor if concerns remain.
12. Ensure that a Consent form for HIV, AFP, and Drug screening is signed by the patient before obtaining these specimens.
13. Perform scheduled calibration and Quality Assurance testing to insure accurate in-house testing. Maintain lab equipment in proper working order. Keep complete and accurate inspection and maintenance records. Document all QA, calibrations, repairs, and/or maintenance activities.
14. Review all lab results to identify reportable diseases. Refer these results to Nurse Supervisor or lead nurse for appropriate follow-up with the Health Department. Document referral of lab results to appropriate staff.
15. Maintain lab supplies in an orderly manner and in adequate quantity to ensure continuity of services. Restock as needed. Submit supply requisitions via laboratory Supervisor according to CFHC's procedure. Reorder supplies from reference lab as needed.
16. Assist lab relief personnel in proper performance of procedures to insure maximal efficiency.
17. Exhibit ent usiasm, dependability, skills, versatility, and dedication in daily activities.
18. Attend continuing education activities as recommended by your supervisor.
19. Participate in quality improvement by making suggestions to enhance lab services, efficiency, paperwork reduction, etc.
20. Demonstrate ability to work cooperatively with other members of the medical team. Be supportive of coworkers.
21. Communicate with patients in a compassionate manner, maintaining HIPPA compliance and obtaining 2 identifiers for patient identification according to JCAHO standards.
22. Maintain neat and professional appearance at all times.
23. Keep a clean work area. Decontaminate work area daily and as needed.

Additional Preferred Performance Skills:

1. Laboratory experience
2. Bilingual English/Spanish

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

1. Standing/walking/sitting for long periods
2. Independently mobile
3. Ability to lift weight equivalents to what would be required when (and if) asked to assist and position patients, reposition equipment and lift supplies.
4. Ability to adapt and function in varying environments of workload, patient acuity, worksites and work shifts.