Lab Assistant

Employment Type:

Full time

Shift:

Day Shift

Description:

May work in various laboratory departments to collect blood specimens from hospital patients, work with microbiology or anatomic pathology specimens, or work independently at remote Patient Service Centers. Creates patient accounts, orders laboratory tests, and prepares specimens for testing. Assists technical personnel in sample log-in, testing workflow, and specimen tracking, as appropriate for patient age including neonates, infants, children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric adults.

• Accepts specimens and requisitions from external and internal customers utilizing excellent customer service skills.

• Identifies patients/specimens using two unique patient identifiers and accurately labels specimen containers.

• Correctly registers specimens and logs into Laboratory Information System (LIS) appropriate to department where testing is to be performed as needed, or evaluates specimen adequacy and acceptability and logs into LIS.

• Performs specimen processing as needed. For example, proper identification, aliquoting, preparing slides, special handling, and required documentation.

• Follows established procedures and policies including infection control and bloodborne pathogens.

• Handles chemicals according to established safety protocols.

• Meets defined workload productivity standards. Supports and utilizes LEAN principles.

• Works proficiently with laboratory information systems and personal computers.

• Follows established procedures and policies to obtain optimal test turn-around-times.

Additional Functions As Needed:

Phlebotomy -

• Accurately and efficiently performs venipunctures and finger sticks ensuring collection of proper specimens for testing and ensuring patient safety.

• May drive to nursing homes to perform phlebotomy services as needed.

• Prepares specimens for testing.

Microbiology and Serology -

• Performs limited testing under supervision of technical staff.

• Performs instrument maintenance according to established protocols.

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Completion of certified Phlebotomy course, or 1 year previous Phlebotomy experience required.

• High school diploma or GED required.

• Proof of completion of Mandatory Reporter abuse training specific to population served within 3 months of hire.

• Knowledge of medical terminology and laboratory experience preferred.

• Computer skills required.

• Valid Iowa driver's license required. Must meet Mercy's Motor Vehicle Safety Standards and be at least 18 years of age.

Trinity Health is a family of 115,000 colleagues and nearly 26,000 physicians and clinicians across 25 states. Because we serve diverse populations, our colleagues are trained to recognize the cultural beliefs, values, traditions, language preferences, and health practices of the communities that we serve and to apply that knowledge to produce positive health outcomes. We also recognize that each of us has a different way of thinking and perceiving our world and that these differences often lead to innovative solutions.

Our dedication to diversity includes a unified workforce (through training and education, recruitment, retention, and development), commitment and accountability, communication, community partnerships, and supplier diversity.

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Trinity Health is one of the largest not-for-profit, Catholic healthcare systems in the nation. Built on the foundation of our Mission and Core Values, we integrate diversity, equity, and inclusion in all that we do. Our colleagues have different lived experiences, customs, abilities, and talents. Together, we become our best selves. A diverse and inclusive workforce provides the most accessible and equitable care for those we serve. Trinity Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by law.