Lab Assistant – Microbiology

Major Responsibilities:

• Ensures that specimens are properly labeled and suitable for testing. Resolves specimen identification and/or requisition problems and clarifies requests.
• Performs limited testing under Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) 1988 guidelines, according to established policies and procedures.
• Performs preventative maintenance on equipment and makes minor repairs when needed. Runs quality control checks.
• Performs laboratory result entry in the computer system. Enters and verifies test requests into the laboratories' computer system.
• Notifies providers of stat, critical, and other abnormal results and exceptions as defined by policy and procedure.
• Obtains billing/insurance information and/or verifies diagnosis code information.
• Answers and screens telephone calls. Assists with inventory and ordering of supplies.
• Receives and sorts specimens and assists with detailed specimen handling; packages and tracks specimens for transport and performs specimen storage and retrieval. Processes specimens for testing, including aliquoting, pre-analytical steps, and loading instruments, while maintaining proper specimen identification.
• Reviews various pending and management reports. Generates and distributes reports. Maintains and files copies of orders, reports and/or correspondence.
• Acts as a resource and trains new employees.

Licensure, Registration, and/or Certification Required:

• n/a

Education Required:

• High school diploma or equivalent
   

Experience Required:

• Typically requires 1 year of experience in the allied health field or in providing laboratory assistance

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required:

• Excellent communication skills
• Basic computer skills including experience using computer software applications
• Keyboarding and typing skills
• Ability to work in a fast paced environment and to handle multiple tasks simultaneously under general supervision
• Demonstrated customer service skills to interface effectively with physicians, patients, visitors, and other healthcare employees

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:

• Operates all equipment necessary to perform the job
• Frequently lifts up to 10 lbs. Occasionally lifts up to 50 lbs
• Must be able to sit, stand, walk, and bend the majority of the work day
• May be exposed to mechanical, electrical, chemical, explosive, radioactive and/or infectious agents
• Will be exposed to human blood and body fluids
• Must wear appropriate lab coat, gloves, gowns and eye and face protection as needed

   

This job description indicates the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent may be required to perform other related duties.