Assistant II, Laboratory Microbiology

Job Summary:

A Microbiology Laboratory Assistant II is responsible for the proper processing of laboratory specimens under the direction of the Laboratory Manager, Medical Laboratory Scientist II, Medical Laboratory Scientist /Technician and/or Lead Lab Assistant. He/she is expected to be proficient in the use of the laboratory information system and KPHC/EPIC to manage test pending lists/test reports (i.e., filing, distributing, faxing) and to maintain supplies associated with laboratory functions. Must demonstrate excellent customer service skills, teamwork, professionalism, good judgment, critical thinking, and organizational skills. Major responsibilities may be assigned as a direct or indirect function of the position.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Responsible for the processing of specimens received in the Microbiology Department: Receiving, plating, and storing of microbiology specimens for culture reading. Processing of specimens for molecular and EIA testing. Loading blood culture bottles into blood culture processing instrument. Retrieval and processing of positive blood cultures. Preparation and staining of gram stain slides (manual or automated).
• Follow department policies/procedures for specimen processing, including Standard Precautions. Maintain a professional demeanor/appearance per regional policy while processing specimens. Protect PHI per HIPAA, including shred or properly dispose of all unused labels. Keep work area/stocked with in date supplies, complete daily checklist, and other assigned duties.
• Deliver great customer service: Show care and respect for customers at all times, resolving issues or finding someone who can. Establish and maintain effective relationships with internal and external customers. Prioritize work to meet department. Consistently displays good communication skills.
• 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, or applying makeup, no cell phone usage in patient care and testing area. Process all orders accurately. Keep lab area neat, clean, and stocked with in date supplies.
• Process specimens: Follow through with add-on requests. Follow department policies/procedures for processing specimens. Monitor pending functions/list daily to ensure all specimens placed in transit have been processed or accounted for. Keep processing area clean/stocked with in date necessary/appropriate supplies, complete checklist. Other duties as assigned.
• 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 Laboratory Newsletters, and Cerner pop-ups. Document quality issues and communicate to supervisor.