Medical Laboratory Assistant

PHSA • Richmond, VA

3d

About The Position

Within a client- and family-centered care model and in accordance with the organization’s vision and values, the Medical Laboratory Assistant works under general supervision to perform blood collection and specimen-processing duties. The role receives patients for testing, collects blood specimens by venipuncture and skin puncture, prepares specimens for analysis, and forwards specimens to referral laboratories or other areas. Routine electrocardiogram testing is performed where required. The position also uses laboratory information and related database systems to enter data and generate collection lists and reports, and performs telephone, filing, and distribution duties.

Requirements

• Grade 12.
• Successful completion of a recognized Laboratory Assistant training program plus one year of recent related experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Ability to type 25 words per minute.
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
• Ability to deal effectively with others.
• Physical ability to carry out the duties of the position.
• Ability to organize work.
• Ability to operate related equipment.

Responsibilities

• Receive patients and review test requisitions for current demographics and physician signatures; enter patient information into the Laboratory Information System, print labels, and attach them to requisitions.
• Explain specimen collection procedures and respond to routine inquiries.
• Greet, identify, and prepare patients for tests; collect and label blood specimens by venipuncture and skin puncture, and dispose of sharps and other materials safely.
• Perform routine laboratory tests, including urine protein and/or glucose testing with colour-coded dip sticks.
• Prepare blood and urine specimens for analysis; verify identification, check for additional or special testing, separate serum or plasma by centrifugation, prepare blood films, and forward specimens to technologists.
• Receive, spin down, split, sort, and label specimens; enter data into computerized databases, batch specimens by established priorities, and distribute them to applicable areas.
• Store analyzed specimens and discard outdated specimens according to facility procedures.
• Arrange shipment of specimens to referral laboratories, complete forms, package specimens in accordance with applicable safety procedures and regulations, and contact couriers or other carriers.
• Perform routine electrocardiogram testing where required, including explaining the procedure, attaching electrodes, operating the electrocardiograph, checking readings, and documenting relevant data.
• Answer telephone calls, take and relay messages, page laboratory and medical staff, relay test results, schedule patients into available appointments, and arrange testing.
• Respond to general enquiries from patients, nursing wards, and external facilities, or refer calls to appropriate personnel.
• Enter billing information, laboratory results, and other data into computerized databases or online systems; print reports, labels, and blood collection lists; and sort, file, and distribute laboratory reports as requested.
• Maintain the work area by cleaning blood collection baskets and disinfecting counters and work benches; identify low stock and notify the supervisor.
• Maintain stationery supplies, identify depleted items, complete internal requisitions, verify received items against purchase orders, and stock shelves.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

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