Anatomic Pathology Lab Assistant I - Full-time

Mercy•Springfield, MO

21h•Onsite

About The Position

Performs computer functions, processes patient specimens, maintains department inventory, operates and maintains equipment, and performs record keeping tasks and QI functions. Adheres to patient identification, Lab safety, and other Mercy Lab and department policies and procedures. Performs duties and responsibilities in a manner consistent with our mission, values, and Mercy Service Standards. Mercy is seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Anatomic Pathology Lab Assistant I to support the daily operations of our Anatomic Pathology Department. This role is responsible for specimen processing, laboratory documentation, equipment maintenance, inventory management, quality improvement activities, and providing technical support to pathologists and laboratory staff. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a commitment to patient safety, accurate specimen handling, and Mercy's Mission, Values, and Service Standards.

Requirements

High School Diploma or equivalent
Greater than 2 years of laboratory experience
Strong organizational and computer skills
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced healthcare environment
Strong attention to detail and accuracy
Ability to prioritize and manage multiple responsibilities
Excellent communication and teamwork skills
Commitment to quality patient care and laboratory excellence
Ability to meet turnaround time expectations and productivity standards

Nice To Haves

Previous Anatomic Pathology laboratory experience
Experience with laboratory and hospital information systems
Knowledge of medical terminology
Strong computer proficiency

Responsibilities

Accession pathology cases into the Laboratory Information System (LIS)
Enter laboratory tests and patient information accurately into LIS
Research patient information using Hospital Information Systems (HIS) and LIS
Troubleshoot computer-related issues as needed
Receive, prepare, and process pathology specimens prior to accessioning
Apply proper specimen fixatives and perform specimen preparation procedures
Prepare Gynecologic Cytology specimens as required
Assist with autopsy procedures as needed
Cut frozen sections and prepare slides for pathologist review
Coverslip, label, and organize pathology slides
Prepare and document specimens for referral testing and send-outs
File and retrieve tissue blocks, slides, and archived laboratory materials
Perform routine maintenance and documentation for laboratory equipment, including: Cryostats, Tissue processors, Bone saws, Other pathology laboratory instruments
Maintain accurate maintenance records and notify leadership of equipment concerns
Initiate specimen problem reports and laboratory variance reports
Maintain laboratory documentation and records
Participate in inventory management and supply control activities
Support quality improvement initiatives and regulatory compliance efforts
Assist Pathologists, Pathologists' Assistants (PAs), Histotechnicians (HTs), and Cytotechnologists (CTs) during laboratory procedures
Prepare laboratory reagents and solutions accurately
Utilize analytical scales and other laboratory tools as required
Foster positive working relationships across departments while adhering to Mercy Service Standards
Mentor and support other AP Lab Assistant team members as assigned
Provide training and guidance to AP Lab Assistants as needed
Assist with staffing and scheduling processes
Manage Epic billing workqueues as assigned
Coordinate laboratory purchasing and supply ordering
Oversee documentation for equipment maintenance activities
Manage legal record requests and special projects as assigned
Complete a minimum of 12 continuing education units (CEUs) annually
Maintain documentation of completed education activities
Complete all required compliance and mandatory education within established timelines
Participate in department training and competency assessments
Organizes, prioritizes, and completes work to meet departmental turnaround times and professional expectations.