Laboratory Assistant / Phlebotomist, full-time, Day/Evening

Northwestern Medical Center • St. Albans, VT

13d • Onsite

About The Position

Northwestern Medical Center is recruiting for a Laboratory Assistant. This is a full-time position (80 hours bi-weekly) with varied shifts, including days and evenings, and requires working up to two weekends per month. The Lab Assistant I performs three key roles: 1) Lab customer service and charge entry, 2) phlebotomy and specimen collection, and 3) order entry/specimen processing. The role adheres to hospital policies and procedures, including safety, fire, disaster plans, and infection control.

Requirements

• High school graduate or equivalent required.
• Clerical experience in a medical setting preferred.
• Knowledge of medical terminology preferred.
• Phlebotomy experience preferred.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• BLS required.

Responsibilities

• Performs three roles: Lab customer service and charge entry, phlebotomy and specimen collection, and order entry/specimen processing.
• Adheres to hospital policies and procedures, including safety, fire, disaster plans, and infection control.
• Provides exceptional customer service to all stakeholders, answering telephones promptly and greeting customers professionally.
• Works collaboratively with clients to improve quality and resolve discrepancies.
• Provides guidance to client inquiries regarding tube selection, collection techniques, and test names.
• Obtains specimens for testing according to policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements for inpatients, outpatients, and off-site locations.
• Recognizes and adjusts for age-specific patient needs to ensure safety and quality of specimen collection.
• Performs proper patient and sample identification, resolving discrepancies before procedures.
• Follows procedures to obtain quality venous and capillary specimens using appropriate venipuncture techniques.
• Minimizes patient discomfort, need for additional attempts, and potential for bruising during phlebotomy.
• Follows specimen collection procedures for other sources like urine and swabs.
• Instructs outpatients on proper methods for obtaining special clinical specimens.
• Maintains specimen integrity using aseptic technique and complying with precautions.
• Keeps collection sites organized, restocked, and disinfected.
• Documents relevant information on appropriate forms and in computer systems.
• Ensures requisition binders are maintained and orders are clear and compliant.
• Processes specimens prior to testing, ensuring quality and adhering to policies.
• Resolves unusual test orders or contacts providers/charge nurses for clarification.
• Verifies specimen and patient identity throughout processing and testing.
• Performs pre-analytical specimen processing, including aliquoting, transferring, or repackaging.
• Processes specimens with accuracy, including demographics and tests ordered.
• Assesses and maintains sample integrity throughout processing.
• Forwards specimens to testing personnel as appropriate, adhering to special handling instructions.
• Delivers processed specimens to testing areas in a timely manner.
• Maintains adequate supply levels and keeps work area organized and disinfected.
• Recognizes and resolves potential errors or deficiencies that could compromise sample integrity.
• Performs proper charging and filing of lab work/records.
• Assists technologists and supervisors with general administrative functions.
• Performs and documents routine Quality Maintenance, Preventative Maintenance, and Quality Assurance.
• Identifies and resolves discrepancies, notifying Medical Tech II or supervisors.
• Demonstrates flexibility in working all shifts, including days, evenings, and swing-shifts.
• Seeks opportunities to assist others and provides logistical support to technologists.
• Communicates at shift change to ensure smooth processing transitions.
• Maintains good relations with patients, medical staff, co-workers, and other contacts.
• Keeps abreast of procedural changes through effective communication.
• Completes all policy/procedure updates within 30 days of posting.
• Participates in continuing education opportunities and acquires sufficient annual CME credits.
• Demonstrates a willingness to learn and perform new procedures.
• Shares technical knowledge and experience with coworkers and customers.
• Participates in committees and workgroups.
• Supports and participates in departmental initiatives and goals.
• Actively participates in the teaching and training of new employees, students, and house staff.

Benefits

• Generous benefits package with recognized national carriers designed to help employees stay healthy, balance work & life responsibilities, protect assets & plan for a secure financial future.
• Eligible for shift differentials.

What This Job Offers

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