Medical Laboratory Assistant

Within the context of a client and family centered care model and in accordance with established vision and values of the organization, this position works under general supervision to perform duties related to blood collection and specimen processing.  Receives patients for testing, collects blood specimens using venipuncture and skin puncture, prepares specimens for analysis and forwards to referral laboratories or other areas.  Performs routine electrocardiogram testing where required.  Utilizes the Laboratory Information systems and related database system/s to enter data, generate blood collection lists and reports, etc.  Answers telephones, files and distributes materials as required.

1. Receives patients and examines test requisition/s to confirm patient demographics are current, checks for physician's signature, enters demographics into Laboratory Information system, prints label indicating patient information such as referring physician, name and test and affixes to requisition.  Explains procedure for collection of laboratory specimens and responds to routine inquiries.  

2. Greets, identifies and prepares patients for specified tests; collects blood specimens by performing venipuncture and skin puncture in accordance with established procedures, labels specimens with required information and ensures safe disposal of sharps and other material as required.   Performs routine lab tests such as urine tests for protein and/or glucose using colour coded dip sticks. 

3. Prepares specimens such as blood and urine for analysis.  Checks specimen identification against requisition, identifies whether additional tests or special testing is required.  Separates serum or plasma from cells by centrifugation and prepares blood films by spreading blood specimen onto slide.  Forwards to Technologist for analysis. 

4. Receives specimens, spins down and splits specimens into different containers, sorts and labels for testing, logs data into a computerized database and batches specimens in order of established priorities for distribution to applicable area.  Stores analyzed specimens and discards outdated specimens as directed in accordance with established facility procedures. 

5. Arranges for the shipment of specimens to referral laboratories.  Completes forms, packages specimens in accordance with safe procedures and regulations outlined in the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System and the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act.  Contacts courier, air transport or alternate carriers. 

6. Performs routine electrocardiogram testing where required; explains procedure to patient, attaches electrodes to patient and operates electrocardiograph in accordance with established procedures.  Checks results for normal/abnormal readings, monitors and documents data such as position of patient, physical reactions and number of leads used to assist physician in interpreting data. 

7. Answers telephones, takes and relays messages, pages laboratory and medical staff as required, relays test results, slots patients into available appointments and makes arrangements for patient testing.  Responds to general enquiries from patients, nursing wards or external facilities or refers calls of a specific nature to appropriate personnel. 

8. Keys a variety of data into computerized databases/on-line systems such as billing information and laboratory results; prints off various reports, labels, blood collection lists, etc. as required.  Sorts, files and distributes laboratory reports upon request. 

9. Maintains work area by methods such as cleaning blood collection baskets, wiping down counters/work benches with disinfectant, identifies depleting stock and notifies supervisor for order placements.  

10. Maintains sufficient levels of stationery supplies according to predetermined levels; identifies depleted items, completes internal requisitions to order replacement items, verifies receipt of items by comparing order to purchase order and stocks shelves. 

11. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Education & Experience 

Grade 12, successful completion of a recognized Lab Assistant training program plus one year's recent related experience or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience. 

Knowledge & Abilities 

Ability to type 25 wpm. 
Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. 
Ability to deal with others effectively. 
Physical ability to carry out the duties of the position. 
Ability to organize work. 
Ability to operate related equipment.