Lab Assistant Specimen Processor Jobs in Kalamazoo, MI

Reports to Laboratory Manager. Collects, accessions, requisitions and processes specimens for testing. Ensures that lab requisitions are appropriately completed and authorized and obtains pertinent patient information for laboratory records and/or billing purposes. Performs general office/clerical responsibilities, performs phlebotomy, and Point-of-Care testing.

MISSION, VALUES and SERVICE GOALS

• MISSION: We deliver outstanding care, inspire health, and connect with heart.
• VALUES: Trust. Respect. Integrity. Compassion.
• SERVICE GOALS: Personally connect. Keep everyone informed. Be on their team.

Performs specimen collection, processing, accessioning and related duties necessary to ensure the efficiency of the laboratory operations and accuracy of test results by:

• Accessioning laboratory test requests, verifying work for accuracy and detail and resolving problem orders.
• Processing and handling specimens and routing them to various laboratory sections according to established procedures.
• Operating the laboratory information system to prepare the draw list and specimen labels or to print out reports and worksheets.
• Determining priority of testing and processing specimens to meet priority requirements.
• Obtaining and verifying pertinent patient information for laboratory records and/or billing purposes.
• Verifying information on requisitions and acquiring appropriate authorization.
• Performing venipuncture, arterial and capillary collections.
• Obtaining non-blood specimens (body fluids or materials and verifying specimen integrity, nasal and throat swabs as needed).
• Performing toxicology specimen collections according to regulatory requirements regarding processing and handling of specimens.
• Performing responsibilities of testing personnel for moderate complexity testing as defined in CFR.493.1425.
• Accurately identifying patients and specimens according to prescribed procedures.
• Preparing specimens and supplies for transport or following applicable shipping regulations.
• Identifying variations from procedure and documents issues as part of the laboratory quality plan.
• Providing trauma support by taking blood products to the patient, relaying any needs to the appropriate lab department and staying with the patient until dismissed by the M.D.
• Communicating with care providers regarding delays in draws and complications when obtaining specimens. Documents all specifics out of the ordinary.
• Adhering to established quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) policies and procedures.

Provides general office support in the Laboratory by:

• Using resources to provide direction and answer questions from clinical staff regarding lab procedure and specimen requirements.
• Assisting internal and external customers with questions, concerns and problems.
• Answering the telephone and responding to requests for specimen pick-up, courier dispatch, laboratory reports, test orders, and faxing etc.
• Transporting or delivering items such as specimens, reports and supplies.
• Maintaining appropriate levels of supplies and reagents and placing orders as needed.
• Maintaining cleanliness of laboratory, cleaning spills with special attention to body fluid precautions and contaminated waste disposal per OSHA guidelines.

Performs other functions to maintain personal competence and contribute to the overall effectiveness of the department by:

• Maintaining records, reports and files as required by departmental policies and procedures.
• Completing other job-related assignments and special projects as assigned.

ORGANIZATIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Associate complies with the following organizational requirements:

• Attends and participates in department meetings and is accountable for all information shared.
• Completes mandatory education, annual competencies and department specific education within established timeframes.
• Completes annual employee health requirements within established timeframes.
• Maintains license/certification, registration in good standing throughout fiscal year.
• Direct patient care providers are required to maintain current BCLS (CPR) and other certifications as required by position/department.
• Consistently utilizes appropriate universal precautions, protective equipment, and ergonomic techniques to protect patient and self.
• Adheres to regulatory agency requirements, survey process and compliance.
• Complies with established organization and department policies.
• Available to work overtime in addition to working additional or other shifts and schedules when required.

Education and Experience

• The knowledge, skills and abilities as indicated below are normally acquired through the successful completion of high school diploma (with courses in mathematics and some biological sciences preferred). Minimum of one year of patient care, customer service, general office/clerical or related experience is preferred. Completion of a phlebotomy training program or experience preferred. Qualifies as testing personnel for moderate complexity testing as defined in CFR.493.1423.

Knowledge & Skills

• Requires the ability to be effective in a fast paced, quality focused, multi-priority environment that frequently deals with stressful situations and deadlines.
• Demonstrates the interpersonal and communication skills (both verbal and written) necessary to maintain effective working relationships with patients, medical staff, other employees, and the public.
• Requires good organization skills and the ability to work effectively with general supervision.
• Requires proficient computer skills to complete work assignments accurately and in a reasonable amount of time.
• Demonstrates the ability to pay close attention to details.
• Requires the effective telephone usage skills necessary to process information accurately.

Working Conditions

• Possible exposure to communicable diseases, hazardous substances, chemicals and other conditions common to a hospital laboratory.

Physical Demands

• Requires the physical ability and stamina (i.e., to walk/stand for prolonged periods of time, push carts/wheelchairs up to 50 pounds, to position/lift patients at a maximum of 35 pounds unassisted, over 35 pounds requires assistance, etc.) to perform the essential functions of the position.