What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lab Assistant position at Palestine Regional Medical Center?
Description
At ScionHealth, we empower our caregivers to do what they do best. We value every voice by caring deeply for every patient and each other. We show courage by running toward the challenge and we lean into new ideas by embracing curiosity and question asking. Together, we create our culture by living our values in our day-to-day interactions with our patients and teammates.
Job Summary
The Lab Assistant performs technical and clerical duties across various laboratory functions including specimen collection, processing, data entry, and communication of results. This role ensures accurate labeling, handling, and processing of specimens while supporting laboratory staff through administrative and clinical tasks in alignment with safety and regulatory standards.
Essential Functions
- Collects, receives, identifies, labels, processes, and transports specimens
- Performs clerical duties including answering phones, filing, scanning, and data entry into EMR/LIS
- Verifies patient identification and specimen accuracy
- Performs waived testing and ensures proper specimen storage and submission
- Maintains cleanliness and organization of work area and equipment
- Maintains adequate inventory of supplies and proper documentation
- Communicates test results to providers and supports reporting processes
- Applies infection control standards and universal precautions
- Assists in training new staff and supporting laboratory quality improvement efforts
- Participates in lab meetings, in-services, and compliance with safety protocols
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities/Expectations
- Critical thinking and sound judgment under minimal supervision
- Ability to manage multiple tasks with accuracy and efficiency
- Proficient in EMR, LIS, and office software systems
- Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
- Knowledge of basic lab techniques and equipment
- Able to lift up to 50 lbs and perform frequent standing, walking, reaching, and manual dexterity tasks
- Able to function in environments with biohazards, chemicals, and various patient populations
- Maintains confidentiality and adheres to HIPAA and regulatory standards
Qualifications
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required
Licenses/Certifications
- None required
Experience
- One (1) year of laboratory or phlebotomy experience preferred
- Completion of a clinical rotation or phlebotomy program preferred