Laboratory Assistant - GMC - Full Time - Days

Geisinger; Pennsylvania; On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in healthcare seeks a dedicated Laboratory Assistant to join their team. This role involves assessing and processing patient specimens, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and utilizing laboratory software for efficient specimen management. The ideal candidate will thrive in a clinical environment, demonstrating strong attention to detail and communication skills. With expected hours from 12pm to 8:30pm, including rotational weekends, this position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to patient care. If you're passionate about laboratory science and eager to grow your skills, this is the perfect role for you.

Qualifications

• Less than 1 year of experience for Laboratory Assistant I.
• 1 year experience or related science enrollment for Laboratory Assistant II.

Responsibilities

• Handles and processes patient specimens for testing.
• Maintains logs and quality control procedures.
• Manages phone inquiries regarding specimen collection.

Skills

Specimen handling

Quality control

Computer applications

Communication skills

Education

High School diploma or GED

Enrollment in a related science degree program

ASCP Certified Medical Laboratory Assistant

Tools

Laboratory software

Job description

Assesses, accession, and processes patient specimens in preparation for testing in the various sections of Laboratory Medicine.

1. Safely handles potentially infectious blood, body fluids, tissues, and other patient specimens in compliance with regulatory standards.
2. Assesses the suitability and acceptability of patient specimens.
3. Rejects unacceptable specimens according to established protocols.
4. Matches order information with specimen data to ensure accuracy and patient safety.
5. Accessions and reports results via appropriate computer applications following procedures.
6. Correctly assigns billing numbers, location codes, and physician identifiers.
7. Verifies physician orders when test requests are unclear.
8. Prepares specimens appropriately, including centrifugation, aliquoting, and labeling.
9. Delivers prepared specimens to the testing area promptly.
10. Uses laboratory programs to store, locate, retrieve, and process specimens for additional testing as needed.
11. Maintains logs, quality control, disinfection procedures, and departmental duties.
12. Manages phone inquiries and provides information regarding specimen collection, transport, and patient results.
13. Accesses multiple computer applications as required.
14. Assists with packaging, ordering, and referral of specimens to reference laboratories, complying with transportation regulations.
15. Troubleshoots missing specimens and preanalytical errors, including courier log review and specimen archives.
16. Maintains equipment, participates in preventative maintenance, and reports issues.
17. Handles supplies, notifies supervisors of low inventory.
18. Completes competency assessments for all assigned functions.

Work is performed in a clinical environment. You are accountable for meeting job obligations and complying with organizational policies. This profile outlines typical elements; additional competencies may be required based on departmental orientation.

Expected hours are 12pm-8:30pm, with rotational weekends and holidays (7am-3:30pm).

Educational and experience requirements:

Laboratory Assistant I - Less than 1 year of experience; HS diploma or GED.

Laboratory Assistant II –

• Minimum 1 year of experience, or
• Enrollment in a related science degree program with at least two semesters completed, or
• ASCP Certified Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA).

Work is typically in a clinical setting. You are responsible for fulfilling all job-specific obligations and adhering to policies. Additional skills from departmental orientation are essential.