Medical Laboratory Assistant

Company: Medstar Research Institute
Location: Olney
Posted on: June 7, 2021

Job Description:

Job Summary Processes all laboratory specimens with appropriate use of hospital and laboratory information systems.# Accessions specimens, evaluating samples for proper submission, recording any problems and employing basic problem resolution skills. Responsible for reference laboratory send-outs, inventory management, and temperature checks. Performs blood collection by venipuncture. May provide guidance and training to other phlebotomists and accessioners.# # Minimum Qualifications Education/Training High School Diploma or equivalent. # Experience Previous experience in high volume outpatient lab or inpatient setting is preferred # License/Certification/Registration Completion of Medical Laboratory Assistant program recommended## Certification in Phlebotomy required# # Knowledge, Skills # Abilities Good verbal and written communication skills. Basic computer skills to perform Data entry and specimen verification.# Experience with computerized laboratory information systems preferred HIPAA policies on Confidentiality# Primary Duties and Responsibilities Specimen Processing: Manages pending list of non-collected specimens.# Operates clinical laboratory equipment, prepares specimens for analysis and determines specimen acceptability for testing in regards to specimen labeling and specimen integrity requirements. Notifies unit when unacceptable specimens are received Sorts specimens and delivers to appropriate laboratory sections. Able to implement downtime procedures for managing laboratory orders and specimen processing during computer downtime. Processes specimens for reference laboratory send-out. Phlebotomy: Collects and obtains blood specimens from patients and evaluates the samples suitability for testing purposes following established policies/procedures. Greets each patient and family member(s) in a courteous manner.# Educates patient and family member(s) about the procedure to be performed. Performs correct patient identification for accurate labeling, collection, and processing of laboratory specimens. Performs blood specimen collection skillfully and according to established hospital and laboratory policies and procedures. Labels all patient specimens and barcode order requisitions with initials, time drawn, and verifies orders in the laboratory computer system. Uses Language Line and Interpreter Services when needed to communicate with the patients. Adheres to all safety protocols including standard precautions, transmission-based precautions, and other infection control policies. Works efficiently and organizes work during heavy workload situations to expedite patient results. Follows procedures for blood culture collection and maintains a #3% contaminated blood culture rate. Consistently checks the uncollected list and identifies problems associated with CPOE errors. Clerical:# Supports work of the department by performing some clerical duties and other support functions.# Demonstrates good customer service skills. Responds to inquiries from patients, visitors, and other hospital or medical personnel, referring non-routine questions to appropriate person or supervisor. Screens visitors and telephone calls, takes messages, provides lab results and/or information, and refers calls as necessary. Where possible, resolves customer service related problems according to established department protocol. Demonstrates a comprehensive knowledge of both the Hospital and Laboratory information systems and computers. Mails and faxes laboratory reports to physician offices as necessary. Enters outpatient orders into Laboratory system for STAT specimens from outpatient drawing stations, home health, and after hours drop off specimens according to laboratory procedures.# Logs Newborn Testing (PKU) specimens and notifies courier services when normal pickup is to be canceled or altered.# Maintains required records, reports, statistics, and files as directed. Other Laboratory duties: Orders laboratory supplies and maintains supply inventories as directed. Receives laboratory supplies upon arrival, checks delivery ticket for accuracy, and stores in respective storage locations. Records refrigerator and freezer temperatures, empties/discards specimen samples according to established policy and procedures. Performs other duties as assigned. Development:# Maintains current knowledge, certification, and licensure.## Identifies learning needs in self and initiates actions to address these education needs. Attends hospital sponsored training programs as required by the department. Completes at least 3 CE units of education/year, with documentation given to Quality and Accreditation Specialist. Completes all mandatory MMMC requirements and laboratory competencies. Keeps certifications current, renewing within allotted timeframe. Organizational knowledge: Works effectively within and between departments. Maintains awareness of changes in procedures or protocols. Attends department meetings as required or reads/initials meeting minutes within the specified time frame if not in attendance. Demonstrates a constructive approach during all interactions with staff, supervisors, and managers both inside and outside the laboratory.# Participates on inter-departmental teams and committees, communicating unit knowledge as appropriate. Provides department/unit with information and knowledge acquired during participation with interdepartmental teams and committees.# Department/Unit Specific Functions and Duties # Contributes to the achievement of established department goals and objectives and adheres to department policies, procedures, quality standards and safety standards. Complies with governmental and accreditation regulations. Cleans and sanitizes Phlebotomy areas. Checks cart and tray used each shift for compliant supplies and signs the daily log to document the check.#

Keywords: Medstar Research Institute, Olney , Medical Laboratory Assistant, Other , Olney, Maryland