Medical Lab Assistant

Under the direction of the MLA Coordinator, the designated Operations Coordinator, and the Support Services Manager, Medical Lab Assistants perform a variety of support services to the laboratory. Depending on the area in which an individual is assigned for his/her shift, the responsibilities vary. The job duties are listed below for the workstations that an MLA may be assigned to.

Job Specifics Requirements:

Laboratory Procedures and Protocols

• Maintain established department policies and procedures, objectives, safety,environmental and infection control standards.

• Process a variety of specimens in accordance to established protocols.

• Data entry into both the hospital and laboratory information systems.

• Monitor the pneumatic tube system and the timely processing of all specimens Received through it.

• Process add-on requests from client offices and from nursing units.

• Monitor requests for laboratory testing that have not been processed through the Laboratory information system.

• Ensure that all outstanding orders are accounted for and that any missing specimens are found.

• Document the receipt of specimens in the laboratory information system.

• Print and fax patient reports as requested.

• Perform quality assurance checks on outpatient requisitions to ensure the correctness of data entry.

• Sort and file requisitions in the appropriate location according to established protocols.

• Pull all out-patient requisitions that require follow-up with the physician offices in the morning.

• Maintain work area in a neat, orderly, and well-stocked fashion.

• Rotate into weekends and holidays as assigned to assure uniform quality of laboratory services.

• Communicate with medical, nursing, and office personnel regarding laboratory results and protocols.

• Provide back up for all areas of responsibility for an MLA regardless of the individual assignment.

• Perform other related duties as required or as responsibilities dictate.

Personal and Professional Growth

• Demonstrate the role of a medical laboratory assistant in a professional manner.

• Assume accountability for his/her position extends self when unusual need arises.

• Report for work on time and give adequate notice of absenteeism or tardiness.

• Routinely undertakes additional tasks when his/her assignment is completed.

• Accepts constructive criticism regarding own performance and strives to make improvements.

• Adheres to policies established for meals, breaks, dress code, and parking.

• Exhibits courtesy and respect to patients, families, physicians, clients, and co¬-workers.

• Maintains competencies through: Regular participation in service education programs.

• Demonstrates understanding of Fire and Disaster Plan, Infection Control, trauma Alert Protocol, and handling of critical patients.

• Demonstrates proficient laboratory skills via yearly competencies.

• Motivated and self-directed:

• Carries out responsibilities promptly and in a self-directed fashion.

• Seeks additional learning experiences.

• Contributes to Organizational Goals

• Utilizes concepts of preventive maintenance and proper use of laboratory equipment.

• Is flexible and receptive to change.

• Participates in quality improvement activities.

• Demonstrates excellent customer service skills to promote customer satisfaction

Requires intense attention and concentration. Ability to handle several processes concurrently. Ability to deal with a wide range of personalities. Basic computer skills which may be obtained thru on the job training.

Preferred; Medical terminology preferred. Accurate typing skills, Hospital or physician office experience helpful.

Preferred: High school diploma or GED preferred