Lab Assistant-FT-Covington

Ochsner Health•Covington, LA

About The Position

This job performs laboratory functions supporting the department, which may include phlebotomy; receiving and processing specimens into the LIS; centrifugation; aliquoting, labeling, and distributing specimens to appropriate test sites. The role performs waived and moderately complex procedures, maintains and monitors equipment, and performs appropriate quality control. The position performs specimen collection, order processing, patient testing, and specimen setup. It also involves documenting quality control, meeting educational requirements, and ordering, inventorying, and stocking supplies. The employee adapts communication and service to the patient population, including respecting privacy, explaining procedures, requesting permission, and using an appropriate communication style. Other related duties may be assigned. The employee must remain knowledgeable about applicable laws, accreditation standards, and regulatory requirements and comply with the employer’s Compliance & Privacy Program and Standards of Conduct. The position is based in a patient-care environment and involves direct patient interaction and handling specimens that may contain communicable diseases. Duties routinely involve exposure to blood, body fluids, and tissue, with potential exposure to hazardous medications or waste. Physical requirements include medium work, moving freely about campus, sitting or standing at a counter or bench, transporting items up to 30 pounds, bending, reaching, stooping, and having mental and visual acuity to discern colors.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Experience working in a controlled environment and following safety measures to minimize exposure to chemicals, body fluids, and blood-borne pathogens.
Current license as a Laboratory Assistant or Laboratory Assistant Trainee in the state of practice. The Louisiana Laboratory Assistant Trainee license is valid for this position only during the first 180 days after hire; a Louisiana Laboratory Assistant license must be acquired and submitted to laboratory management within 180 days of hire.
Computer skills and dexterity for data entry and information retrieval.
Effective verbal and written communication skills and ability to present information clearly and professionally.
Proficiency with Windows-style applications, software specific to the role, and keyboard use.
Strong interpersonal skills.
Analytical skills necessary to operate laboratory computers, printers, and laboratory equipment.
Judgment to identify and solve problems and handle difficult situations.
Ability to work independently and be self-directed.
Ability to read and perform basic math calculations.
Ability to manage stress while maintaining a professional atmosphere and providing quality service.
Ability to perform medium work, exerting 20 to 50 pounds occasionally, 10 to 25 pounds frequently, and up to 10 pounds constantly to move objects.
Ability to sit or stand at a counter or bench approximately 2½ to 3½ feet high and move freely about the campus.
Ability to transport items up to 30 pounds.
Ability to bend, reach, and stoop.
Mental and visual acuity, including the ability to discern colors.
Ability to work in a patient-care area, interact directly with patients, and handle specimens that may contain communicable diseases.

Nice To Haves

Formal phlebotomy training.
One year of hospital-based phlebotomy experience.

Responsibilities

Perform specimen collection.
Process orders.
Perform patient testing and specimen setup.
Receive and process specimens into the LIS, including centrifugation, aliquoting, labeling, and distribution to appropriate test sites as needed.
Perform waived and moderately complex procedures.
Maintain and monitor equipment and perform appropriate quality control.
Perform and document quality control and meet educational requirements.
Order, inventory, and stock supplies.
Adapt behavior and communication to the patient population, respecting privacy, explaining services or procedures, and requesting permission.
Remain knowledgeable about applicable laws, accreditation standards, and regulatory requirements, and ensure compliance.
Report known or suspected unethical or questionable conduct and patient or employee safety, privacy, or other compliance concerns.
Perform other related duties as required.