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:

• None Required.

Education Required:

• High School Graduate.

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 workday.
• 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.
• Must be able to handle stressful situations in a calm and professional manner.

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.