Job Description

Medical Lab Assistant, General Laboratory

Full Time, 80 Hours Per Pay Period, Variable Shifts

Rotating weekends and holidays.

Methodist Medical Center Overview:

With more than 30 specialties from Cardiology and Neurosurgery to Orthopedics and Vascular care, Methodist Medical Center was one of the first hospitals in East Tennessee to offer cutting-edge treatments and technologies that benefit people with life-threatening aneurysms, severely damaged knee, hip and shoulder joints, sudden heart failure, and non-healing wounds.

• 283 licensed beds
• 25 ICU beds
• 12 intermediate care beds
• 38 emergency suites
• 2 cath labs
• 8 LDRP suites
• Over 250 active and courtesy physicians
• Over 800 employees

The Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) performs the pre-analytical and preparatory steps of the testing process for clinical laboratory tests for use in diagnosis and treatment of patients by physicians. The individual will perform only those processes for which he/she has been trained and deemed competent. MLAs must also be competent to perform the duties of a Clinical Lab Assistant, Senior. Local travel may be required.

Responsibilities

• Performs preparatory functions necessary to complete routine and high complexity tests that the individual has been trained in. Functions include
  • centrifuging, pouring off specimens, preparing specimens for testing, and archiving specimens
  • preparing peripheral smears
  • staining peripheral smears by automated method
  • loading primary bar-coded specimens on an analyzer
  • primary inoculation of microbiology specimens, including slide preparation and staining by automated method
  • preparation of 24 hour urine containers with preservatives
  • monitor work pending reports
  • communication of critical results
• Follows the Laboratory’s procedures for specimen handling and processing, and preparation.
• Identifies problems that may adversely affect a test result and either correct or notify a licensed Laboratory employee to assist.
• Utilizes the LIS in patient accessioning; monitors incomplete and collection lists.
• Operates, maintains and troubleshoots applicable Laboratory equipment, e.g. centrifuges, stainers, etc.
• Communicates with the next shift and other appropriate staff needed information regarding patient samples or equipment performance.
• Performs phlebotomy (if deemed competent).
• Maintains and disinfect work area.
• Assists with management of the pneumatic tube system, processing and distributing specimens.
• Handles biohazard waste according to policy.
• Maintains strict confidentiality of all patient, co-worker and business information at all times.
• Follows policy regarding the release of information.
• Assists other laboratory sections as qualifications permit.
• Assists with orientation and training of staff as appropriate
• Performs pipette and glassware cleanings, timer verifications, centrifuge rpms, and thermometer verifications.
• Checks and follows up incomplete reference Lab reports.
• Adhere to Methodist Medical Center Health policies on Integrity and Compliance issues.
• Other duties as assigned.
• HEALTH/SAFETY/COMPETENCE: Cannot pose a direct threat to health or safety of self or others. Must provide safe, efficient, competent care to customers, responding appropriately in emergency situations. Must display good body mechanics when lifting, and understand chemical, biological, and electrical safety in the laboratory. Must be familiar with the concept of blood borne pathogens and wear or use the appropriate safety items that are provided while performing duties. Must demonstrate competency of the unit specific functions described in the performance continuum, skill lists and/or standards.

Qualifications

Minimum Education:

High School diploma or equivalent required. College degree or courses in hard sciences preferred. Basic computer skills, medical terminology, and phlebotomy skills preferred.

Minimum Experience:

No previous experience required. Experience in laboratory testing procedures and/or phlebotomy preferred.

Licensure Requirement:

Certification by NCA, ASCP or comparable institution is desirable. Employee must have a valid Tennessee driver’s license Class D and state mandated minimum insurance coverage. Driving record must meet the Employer’s minimum standards at the date of hire and throughout employment tenure.