Clinical Lab Assistant I

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.