Clinical Laboratory Assistant

The Clinical Lab Assistant reports to a senior tech or manager. Under general supervision and with appropriate training and documented competency can perform various complex laboratory testing in the assigned lab section. The CLA may have tasks in all phases of lab testing and day to day operations including preanalytical analytical and post analytical responsibilities. CLA should demonstrate a professional level of knowledge to read and interpret tests and preferably have some collegiate experience in the Sciences especially as it relates to the laboratory.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Receives specimens confirms patient's identification and validates the appropriateness of patient samples and can perform add-ons reprint labels and aliquot samples exercising care to avoid contamination or mislabeling of samples.

Understands clinical tests and appropriate handling of the required samples and their corresponding methodologies.

Understands the clinical significance of test results. Collaborates with other laboratory staff to confirm unusual test results or test procedure variation. May review same with Specialist or Manager who are available to handle or advise on unusual situations and in accordance with specific and detailed instructions or procedures. Records and reports test results to ordering physician or Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) as procedurally required.

Assists in the instruction and orientation of new employees as required.

Familiarizes self with new test procedures as they are ordered or as detailed by the Specialist or Manager.

Troubleshoots operational problems to include inappropriate or conflicting orders or sample integrity issues.

Performs routine functions such as loading samples onto the automation system responding to the pneumatic tube and loading/unloading blood culture samples. Performs waived testing.

Performs daily maintenance on automation components instruments and devices. Calibrates instrumentation and performs quality control.

When working in Blood Bank handles blood products and ensures necessary inventory performs liaison functions between the Blood Bank and Operating Room (OR) maintains the OR blood storage refrigerators and ensures testing is complete for OR patients.

Cleans and maintains laboratory equipment work benches etc.

Helps to maintain inventory control in the area to include stocking of supplies to maintain laboratory readiness.

Participates in Quality Management (QM) program performing functions such as entry of patient safety events into an electronic system and the verification of manually entered results.

Complies with all QM Safety Infection Control and HIPAA guidelines in accordance with established hospital and departmental policies procedures and objectives.

Performs other related duties that may be assigned.

BASIC KNOWLEDGE:

Bachelor's degree in a lab science such as chemical physical biological clinical laboratory science or medical technology.

EXPERIENCE:

Collegiate experience in the Sciences especially as it relates to the laboratory.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Ability to operate equipment and to follow all procedures within section and interpret them for accuracy. Computer skills ability to navigate the web for multiple labs to find testing and sample requirements. Physical and visual dexterity necessary to conduct and interpret tests. Physical ability to stand and work in the OR or laboratory. Exposure to odors infectious materials toxins and other hazardous substances. Regularly required to stand and to lift and carry supplies etc.

INDEPENDENT ACTION:

Performs independently within department policies and practices. Refers specific complex problems to Specialist Manager or Director of the Send Out Lab where clarification of departmental policies and procedures may be required.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

None.