Lab Assistant - Core Lab

Tenet Healthcare • Detroit, MI

9h

About The Position

The Lab Assistant works under general supervision and follows specific, detailed procedures to perform pre-analytical and post-analytical tasks. The role involves processing and verifying information and laboratory data with attention to detail, interacting with patients and healthcare professionals, responding to routine inquiries, and maintaining the work area, instruments, and supplies. The Lab Assistant is expected to support DMC values and a High Reliability Culture focused on safety, service, respect, integrity, accountability, innovation, teamwork, and effective resource use.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent education.
• Six months of experience in medical training and/or certification in a healthcare environment or related science field, such as Lab Assistant, Medical Assistant, Nursing Assistant, Phlebotomist, or Health Science studies.

Nice To Haves

• Basic studies in medical terminology or a related health science field.
• Customer service experience in a service environment.
• Phlebotomy certification for candidates working as Phlebotomists.

Responsibilities

• Prioritize incoming specimens and process patient specimens according to department safety procedures and OSHA guidelines; ensure stat and other critical tests are processed accurately and immediately.
• Document specimen problems and refer them to a supervisor or designated lead.
• May draw blood samples according to physician orders and safety guidelines; verify patient identification and collect insurance information.
• Generate and attach labels to specimens and blood samples; may process and aliquot specimens according to established test requirements.
• Verify patient identification and specimen suitability, and sort, rack, and deliver specimens to the appropriate testing laboratory.
• Enter and review laboratory test data in the laboratory computer system and correct errors according to laboratory policies and quality standards.
• Explain procedures to patients and answer routine questions from physicians, nurses, and other appropriate healthcare professionals.
• Maintain a neat and clean work area, stock supplies, inventory as needed, and clean glassware, equipment, and small instruments.
• May deliver specimens and reports, timestamp or computer-verify laboratory requests, and order tests in the system.
• May inspect, maintain, and perform quality control checks on equipment, record temperatures, and promptly report unusual findings.
• May prepare patients for or administer tolerance tests or other tests specific to the assigned area.
• Perform clerical duties such as answering phones, scheduling appointments, maintaining records, and relaying messages.
• Monitor individual work behavior and performance, make improvements, and communicate training and development needs to management.
• Follow departmental safety policies and procedures and OSHA guidelines, including use of applicable personal protective equipment.
• Check organizational communications daily, including Outlook, laboratory software, and posted notices.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer match.
• Paid time off (PTO).
• Career development and continuing education opportunities.
• Health savings accounts and healthcare-dependent flexible spending accounts.
• Employee Assistance Program and employee discount program.
• Voluntary benefits including pet insurance, legal insurance, accident and critical illness insurance, long-term care, elder and childcare, and auto and home insurance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED