Lab Assistant

Job Summary

Monitor specimen preparation and delivery on the Automated Specimen Handling System to insure efficient specimen handling. Diagnose, repair and correct problems on the Automated Specimen Handling line by monitoring software programs on the central control computer interface workstation. Enter orders, label specimens and deliver labeled specimens to appropriate areas within the Laboratory.

Essential Functions

• Operates and monitors specimen preparation and delivery on the Automated Specimen Handling System to ensure efficient specimen handling.
• Performs daily, weekly and monthly maintenance on the Automated Specimen Handling System.
• Diagnoses and corrects problems on the Automated Specimen Handling line by monitoring software programs on the central control computer interface workstation.
• Repairs mechanical and electronic malfunctions to ensure operation of the Automated Specimen Handling System.
• Directs and trains staff in the operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the Automated Specimen Handling System.
• Contacts and oversees outside service; perform periodic maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of the Automated Specimen Handling System.
• Keeps accurate repair and maintenance records of the Automated Specimen Handling System.
• Operates the pneumatic tube system properly.
• Receives and logs in patient specimens collected by phlebotomists.
• Documents in the Laboratory Computer System any specimen or patient information provided by the phlebotomist.
• Receives, affix bar-code labels, and logs in hospital patient samples collected by nursing personnel.
• Processes specimens from Satellite drawing areas, nursing homes, home health agencies, and doctors’ offices. Accurately enter patient demographic information and orders correct tests. Enters proper priority.
• Delivers labeled specimens to appropriate areas within the Laboratory.
• Meets turn-around times and productivity standards established for the department.
• Recognizes errors and follows through on investigation, correction and notification as indicated by Quality Improvement and/or Incident reports.
• Provides care and to assess the data for neonatal, pediatric, adolescent and geriatric patients in special units or in general units which commonly care for age specific patients.
• Completes all applicable duties as assigned
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

• H.S. Diploma or GED required
• Less than 2 years experience or on-the-job training required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Attend Laboratory Automation Classes or receive similar training on site.
• Mechanical ability to analyze and repair sophisticated scientific robotic equipment.
• Knowledge of how robotic equipment
• interfaces to central control module.
• Ability to analyze software programs to identify and repair robotic equipment
• malfunctions and breakdowns.
• Finger sensitivity required to locate veins.
• Verbal ability to communicate with patients.
• Clerical accuracy in labeling specimens and completing requisitions for reference laboratories.