Assistant, Laboratory

Job Summary
A Laboratory Assistant is responsible for the proper collection and processing of laboratory specimens under the task direction of the Laboratory Manager, Laboratory Supervisor, Assistant Supervisor, Medical Technologist II, Medical Technologist/Technician and/or Lead Lab Assistant. He/she is expected to be competent in the use of the laboratory information system, and KP HealthConnect/EPIC to assist in the handling of test orders, reports (i.e., filing, distributing, faxing) and to maintain supplies associated with assigned duties. A laboratory assistant is also expected to demonstrate excellent customer service skills, teamwork, professionalism, good judgment/critical thinking, and organizational skills.

Essential Responsibilities

• Collect laboratory specimens: Perform venipuncture proficiently on all age groups. Escort members for urine specimen collection to the rest room and explain collection procedure. Follow department policies/procedures for specimen collection, including Standard Precautions. Maintain a professional demeanor/appearance per regional policy while collecting specimens. Research and collect appropriate specimen for the test requested. Address members properly, collecting specimens efficiently with compassion. Clearly explain, ensure understanding of collection/storage instructions for patients with take home tests. Promptly respond to requests for venipunctures to be performed in areas outside of the lab. Be familiar with emergency codes and be able to execute appropriate emergency procedures. Protect PHI per HIPAA, including shred or properly dispose of all unused labels. Keep work area/ phlebotomy room clean/stocked with in date supplies, stations wiped/sanitized in between patients, and complete checklist.
• Deliver great customer service: Show care and respect for members at all times, resolving issues or finding someone who can. Establish and maintain effective relationships with internal and external customers. Prioritize work to meet member/customer needs: e.g., update members of any delays or extended wait times and verify check-in /walk-in for labs. Consistently displays good communication skills. Greet members promptly using good customer service skills (make eye contact, smile). Exhibit competency in Cerner, the laboratory information system. Exhibit competency in HealthConnect/EPIC. Maintain a professional demeanor/appearance per regional policy at all times. Use good telephone etiquette (give name, location). No eating, drinking, chewing gum, no cell phone usage in patient care and testing areas, or applying makeup. Process all orders accurately. Monitor the waiting area for members waiting, using the Caution List. Protect PHI per HIPAA. Keep lab area neat, clean and stocked with in date supplies & patient instructions.
• Process specimens: Process STATS, coagulation, and other time sensitive specimens immediately. Notify the technologist when stats are brought into the technical area. Follow through with add-on requests. Follow department policies/procedures for processing specimens. Monitor pending functions/list daily to ensure all collected specimens have been processed. Keep accessioning work area clean/stocked with in date necessary and appropriate supplies, complete checklist.
• Be informed/provide information: Complete all mandatory training, policy/procedure review and competency requirements. Assist with preparation of facility lab, participate in internal DHR inspections, being prepared to answer inspectors questions. Attend department and facility meetings as well as applicable in-service education programs. Responsible for reading and complying with information communicated in weekly laboratory newsletters and Cerner pop-ups. Document quality issues and communicate to supervisor.