Laboratory Assistant (Histo/Flow/Cyto)

The Laboratory Assistant (Histo/Fow/Cyto) prepares lab specimens for analysis and performs various tasks including sample accessioning, processing and maintenance of lab equipment. Working under direct supervision, this role performs tasks that aid in rendering a diagnosis designated by Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) if applicable. The Laboratory Assistant contributes to the efficient functioning of the laboratory, timely delivery of test results, and maintenance of high-quality service for patient care and diagnosis.

Essential Job Function:

• Performs all necessary processes associated with receiving specimens, such as reviewing orders, ensuring accurate patient labeling and identification, assessing specimen acceptability, and processing according to test requirements to maintain data integrity and ensure accurate and reliable test results.
• Manages various clinical functions including phone management, report handling, and filing/storing slides and specimens to ensure smooth laboratory operations and efficient workflow.
• Adheres to the laboratory's quality control policies, document all quality control activities, instrument and procedural calibrations and maintenance performed.
• Assumes responsibility for and takes action regarding any quality control or quality assurance issues to maintain accuracy in specimen testing and reporting.
• Actively supports and complies with established laboratory protocols and regulatory standards to ensure compliance with safety and quality guidelines.
• Meets technical training requirements, completes required competencies and assigned proficiency testing if applicable by the due date and maintains knowledge of procedure changes.
• Responds to all customer service issues, addressing inquiries, resolving concerns, and providing necessary follow-up to ensure patient satisfaction and maintain a high level of service excellence.
• Communicate with and assist patients and staff in a professional and courteous manner.
• Facilitates effective communication during shift transitions to ensure seamless continuum of care and reduce the risk of errors or omissions.
• Practices effective and efficient use of supplies/reagents and actively participates in inventory control to maintain a cost-effective and well-equipped laboratory.
• Demonstrates effective problem-solving skills to assure optimal outcome: Identifies problems that may adversely affect test performance or reporting of test results and utilizes available resources to troubleshoot.
• Escalates complicated/unresolved issues to appropriate designee.
• Documents all actions taken when test systems/processes deviate from the laboratory's established performance specifications.
• Utilizes lab/facility systems to accurately document lab activity to include various worksheets, forms, task logs, and pending logs, according to established site protocols throughout the shift to ensure established turnaround times and high quality are met.
• Specific duties are determined by the physical working department for this position.
• (i.e. Flow, Cytology, Histology, Core Lab, Microbiology and Blood Bank).
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Education:

• Required: High School Diploma or equivalent.

Experience:

• Required: 6 months experience a Pathology or laboratory environment.

Licensure/Certification/Listing: