What are the responsibilities and job description for the Clinical Lab Assistant I position at Tamarack Health Hayward Medical Center?
The Clinical Laboratory Assistant I (CLA I) performs phlebotomy, assists laboratory technicians in performing routine laboratory tests, and performs related duties. These duties include (but are not limited to): Microbiology set-up, collection of specimens, performing waived testing, and performance of clerical and courier functions. Strives for superior performance by consistently providing a high standard of care. All CLAs are responsible for assisting with collections from outpatients, inpatients, and other possible collections from other patient types that Tamarack Health supports.
- Procurement and preparation of blood specimens by venipuncture, capillary, and arterial puncture according to department standards.
- Proper tube selection with correct additives
- Patient preparation
- Puncture site care
- Appropriate patient and specimen identification
- Sorting, verification of specimen labeling, order entry, distribution, and specimen retrieval.
- Proper collection of throat, nasal, and nasopharyngeal swabs
- Proper instructions for urine, stool, and sputum collections
- Proper specimen processing based on test requirements
- Appropriate use of the HIS and LIS
- Manage supply inventory
- Utilizes knowledge of laboratory procedures to prioritize workload and utilize situations such as combative patients and/or patients that are difficult to draw for various medical reasons.
- Act as a laboratory customer service representative
- Performs processing functions to assure the integrity of specimens for testing.
- Assesses the purpose of calls accurately and directs calls to appropriate personnel consistently. Can resolve problems with a high degree of accuracy within the scope of practice of the position description.
- Performs quality control, quality improvement, specimen tracking, and maintenance procedures as required for shift responsibilities.
- Accurately documents client complaints and follow-ups within a timely manner.
- Troubleshoots/researches physician orders to ensure accurate order entry of procedures requested. Works with other laboratory personnel to assure the quality of specimens.
- Accurately edits specimen types and specimen events; accurately adds events, cancels duplicate orders, recollects specimens, and is knowledgeable of specific tests that cannot be added on and is aware of time limitations for certain add-ons. Knows where to find this information if needed.
- Perform waived testing as indicated and trained
- Accurately enters data into hospital and laboratory computer systems.
- Successfully participates in all accreditation and other proficiency testing and annual performance competencies in each area as assigned.
- Other duties as assigned.
Education/Experience:
- Certification as a Phlebotomist by a national accrediting agency preferred, or other healthcare-related license, such as a WI CNA license, EMT, or CMA license preferred.
Equal Opportunity Employer
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