Laboratory Assistant - Full Time - Days

Best Care•Omaha, NE

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Laboratory Assistant assists laboratory specialists by receiving specimens, entering specimen data into the computer system, preparing samples for further analysis, and transporting specimens to other laboratory departments. Duties include accessioning, splitting, sorting, labeling, and storing specimens; assigning computer-generated identification numbers accurately and promptly; and communicating with hospital and clinic staff about specimen requirements, orders, and requests. The role also handles customer contacts by phone, electronically, in writing, and in person, follows up on unresolved issues, and requires multitasking in a fast-paced team environment. The position processes patient and send-out specimens, enters patient information and test orders, evaluates specimen appropriateness, and supports timely, accurate laboratory services. It also maintains supplies and equipment, completes and documents routine maintenance, follows PPE and safety requirements, supports quality and accreditation activities, assists with staff training, and supports laboratory student education. The schedule is flexible, generally starting between 7:00 and 8:00 a.m. and ending between 3:30 and 4:30 p.m.; an occasional half-day Saturday may be required. The listed work schedule is Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with flexibility. The position is at Nebraska Methodist Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska.

Requirements

Two years of relevant experience as a phlebotomist or specimen processor in a clinical/anatomical laboratory or physician office, or certification as a Medical Laboratory Technician.
Ability to type 35 words per minute.
Ability to complete 10-key entry.
Computer knowledge.
Ability to organize and prioritize work demands and handle multiple tasks.
Good customer service skills.
Ability to handle stressful situations calmly and professionally.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Ability to exert up to 50 pounds of force.
High school diploma, GED, or equivalent combination of education and experience is preferred; a high school diploma or equivalent is required for CAP surveyors only.

Nice To Haves

Two years of college science courses.
Current national certification as a Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT).
Knowledge of basic specimen collection, selection, handling, and storage activities.

Responsibilities

Process patient specimens, including centrifuging, aliquoting, distributing, and storing them safely and appropriately.
Maintain compliance with established processes, including turnaround-time expectations, when collecting or handling specimens, orders, and results.
Enter patient demographics, test orders, and test results accurately into the computer system.
Perform and evaluate the appropriateness of patient specimens.
Prioritize and organize work to complete multiple tasks accurately and on time.
Meet section and organizational quality goals.
Follow personal protective equipment guidelines at all times.
Identify problems and promptly follow up with the Technical Coordinator, Section Leader, or Medical Director as needed.
Respond professionally to requests for flexibility in duties, schedules, and staffing.
Complete and document routine maintenance.
Maintain section materials, supplies, and equipment according to section policies.
Process send-out specimens to ensure accurate information transfer and specimen integrity.
Document orientation, training, and education to support employee competence, service quality, and accreditation requirements.
Complete organizational and department competencies and review new or revised procedures.
Assist with training new and existing staff, including orientation and skill/training checklists.
Support education of clinical/anatomical laboratory scientist students.
Answer telephones, take messages, contact clients for test clarification, and route information or calls to appropriate staff.
Handle phone calls promptly and professionally and bring concerns to the appropriate Service Leader or designee.