Medical Laboratory Assistant

PHSA • Richmond, VA

2d

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 duties related to blood collection and specimen processing. The position 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. It performs routine electrocardiogram testing where required and uses laboratory information and related database systems to enter data and generate blood collection lists and reports. The role also includes answering telephones, filing, and distributing materials as required.

Requirements

• Grade 12.
• Successful completion of a recognized Laboratory Assistant training program plus one year's 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 requisitions to confirm demographics, physician signature, and required information; enter demographics into the Laboratory Information system, print and affix labels, explain specimen collection procedures, and respond to routine inquiries.
• Greet, identify, and prepare patients for tests; collect blood by venipuncture and skin puncture, label specimens, and safely dispose of sharps and other materials.
• Perform routine laboratory tests such as urine protein and/or glucose testing with colour-coded dip sticks.
• Prepare blood and urine specimens for analysis; verify identification against requisitions, identify additional or special testing needs, separate serum or plasma by centrifugation, prepare blood films, and forward specimens to a Technologist.
• Receive, spin down, split, sort, and label specimens; log data into a computerized database, batch specimens according to priorities, distribute them to the applicable area, and store or discard specimens according to facility procedures.
• Arrange shipment of specimens to referral laboratories by completing forms, packaging specimens according to applicable safety procedures and regulations, and contacting carriers.
• Perform routine electrocardiogram testing where required, including explaining the procedure, attaching electrodes, operating the electrocardiograph, checking readings, and documenting relevant patient and test information.
• Answer telephones, take and relay messages, page laboratory and medical staff, relay test results, schedule patients into available appointments, arrange testing, and respond to or direct general inquiries.
• Enter information into computerized databases and online systems, including billing information and laboratory results; print reports, labels, and blood collection lists; and sort, file, and distribute laboratory reports.
• 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