Lab Assistant chez Complete Health Partners, INC

Location: 832 Princeton Avenue SW, Birmingham, AL 35211

Pay: $17.00 - $18.00/hr

Shift: 11:30am-8:30pm/Monday - Friday

Summary:

The Lab Assistant plays a crucial role in the efficient and accurate flow of laboratory samples. This position is responsible for receiving, accessioning, sorting, and preparing a variety of biological specimens for analysis by different laboratory departments. The Lab Assistant ensures proper patient identification, specimen integrity, and accurate data entry, adhering to established protocols and safety guidelines. This role requires meticulous attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Specimen Receiving and Verification:
• Receive and unpack clinical specimens delivered to the laboratory.
• Verify the integrity of specimen containers (e.g., no leaks, proper labeling).
• Compare specimen labels with accompanying requisitions or electronic orders to ensure accurate patient identification and test requests.
• Document any discrepancies or issues, such as missing information, unlabeled specimens, or damaged containers, and follow established procedures for resolution.
• Maintain a detailed log of received specimens, either manually or electronically.
• Specimen Accessioning and Labeling:
• Accurately enter patient demographics and test order information into the laboratory information system (LIS).
• Assign unique accession numbers to each specimen.
• Generate and affix appropriate labels to specimen containers, ensuring legibility and accuracy.
• Ensure all specimens are correctly linked to their corresponding requisitions or electronic orders in the LIS.
• Specimen Sorting and Distribution:
• Sort and prioritize specimens according to laboratory department (e.g., Hematology, Chemistry, Microbiology, Pathology) and test requirements.
• Prepare aliquots (sub-samples) of specimens into appropriate secondary containers, following specific volume and handling instructions.
• Ensure proper labeling of all aliquots.
• Transport or deliver specimens to the designated testing areas within the laboratory, adhering to established timelines and temperature requirements.
• Specimen Processing and Preparation:
• Perform basic specimen processing tasks such as centrifugation, decanting, and preparing slides as required by specific laboratory protocols.
• Follow detailed instructions for handling and processing different specimen types (e.g., blood, urine, tissue, swabs).
• Maintain accurate records of processing steps and any deviations from standard procedures.
• Data Entry and Record Keeping:
• Accurately enter data related to specimen receipt, accessioning, processing, and storage into the LIS or other designated systems.
• Maintain organized and accurate paper and electronic records.
• Assist in the retrieval of stored specimens as needed.
• Quality Control and Safety:
• Adhere to all laboratory safety policies and procedures, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Follow established quality control procedures to ensure specimen integrity and accurate processing.
• Identify and report any potential quality issues or safety hazards.
• Participate in quality improvement initiatives as directed.
• Equipment Maintenance and Supplies:
• Perform routine cleaning and maintenance of processing equipment (e.g., centrifuges, automated labelers).
• Monitor and maintain adequate levels of necessary supplies (e.g., tubes, labels, reagents).
• Report any equipment malfunctions or supply shortages to the appropriate personnel.
• Communication and Collaboration:
• Communicate effectively with laboratory staff, phlebotomists, and other healthcare personnel regarding specimen issues or inquiries.
• Work collaboratively with team members to ensure efficient workflow and timely specimen processing.
• Answer phone calls and address inquiries related to specimen status or processing.
• Assist in investigating and resolving providers concerns.
• Other Duties:
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Laboratory Supervisor or Lead Technician.
• Any other duties as required.