Job Description

Job Title: Lab Assistant I

Department: Laboratory

Reports To: Laboratory Manager

FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt

Job Summary: Assists laboratory personnel in daily accessioning activities. Performs pre-analytical processing of specimens and a variety of clerical duties in support of the department.

Responsibilities:

• Assures all specimens and requisitions are properly labeled according to laboratory policy. Seeks supervisor input when necessary for specimen acceptance.
• Operates the laboratory computer system for order entry, information inquiry, and other appropriate duties as assigned.
• Operates the hospital computer system for the purpose of specimen registration and inquiry.
• Receives, logs, centrifuges, aliquots, labels, preserves, and processes laboratory specimens in preparation for testing by others.
• Calls floors/units/offices when necessary in order to ascertain or relay information regarding a patient or specimen.
• Assures all specimens are properly labeled at the conclusion of each shift. Trouble shoots (using established procedures) and resolves issues regarding specimens that are not received, outstanding, pending, or not resulted for any reason.
• Receives and tracks batches from outside collection depots using the laboratory information system.
• Delivers specimens to the appropriate section in a timely manner.
• Processes, packages, and logs specimens for offsite testing retrieved by URMC courier services.
• Provides accurate test information including collection/handling information and results to hospital staff and clients.
• Uses the lab/hospital computer system to provide lab reports, patient information, billing information, or other appropriate information to an authorized person(s) upon request for such information while adhering to HIPAA guidelines.
• Answers, screens and directs phone calls received in Laboratory
• Contributes to the orientation of new staff
• Monitors supplies and informs supervisor when supplies are low or near expiration.
• Adheres to the infection control policy in regards to the proper use of personal protective equipment.
• Handles client & healthcare practitioner inquiries.
• Attends/completes all hospital and laboratory mandatories/in-services.
• Demonstrates organization ICARE values.
• Other duties as assigned by laboratory supervisor or laboratory manager.

Job Specifications:

Education: Minimum High School Diploma/GED

Experience: Previous clinical laboratory or healthcare experience preferred.

• Medical terminology, Keyboarding, Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Outlook experience preferred.
• Possess the ability to participate as an effective team member while making independent decisions when circumstances warrant such action.
• Demonstrate good verbal and written communication skills.
• Possess the ability to deal tactfully with personnel, physicians, visitors, agencies and the general public.
• Possess the ability to seek out new methods and principles and be willing to incorporate them into existing practices.
• Must be able to follow written and oral instructions.

Physical Demands:

• Must be able to move frequently throughout the day.
• Sits, stands, bends, lifts, moves frequently during working hours.
• Uses equipment of various sizes and weights.

Mental Demands:

• Must possess emotional stability
• Poised self-confident professional manner.
• Interactions: Internal and external customers and co-workers

Work Conditions:

• Works primarily in a space restricted laboratory area, as well as throughout the facility and its premises.
• Is subject to frequent interruptions.
• Is willing to work beyond normal working hours when necessary.

Hazards:

• Potential exposures to chemicals, communicable diseases, and related medical waste.
• Daily exposure to biohazards such as bodily fluids and surgical specimens.

Employee Signature: Date:__________________

Created By: Laboratory Manager

Reviewed: Foundation Director, Director Decision Support

Revised: February 3, 2020; 12/2020