Job Summary:

The Laboratory Assistant performs veni punctures and general laboratory and clerical procedures related to the drawing, collecting and preparation of blood and other body fluid specimens for analysis. Performs Electrocardiogram (ECG) testing when required.

Duties/Accountabilities:

1.Receives incoming specimens and requisitions and checks for accuracy and completeness of information such as personal health number, name, date of birth and tests required. Contacts physicians or labs for missing information and makes necessary corrections.
2.Performs venipuncture and micro blood collections from patients, collecting specimens according to the requirements of tests as indicated in requisitions.
3.Under the supervision of a Registered Technician or Technologist, performs duties such as operating ECG equipment during stress testing and related procedures and scanning recordings from equipment such as holter monitors and pacemakers.
4.Processes test requisitions by entering patient data into computer systems, issues new patient identification information where required and identifies duplicate record problems, obtains or clarifies missing or questionable information, corrects errors and omissions in patient demographic data and enters corrections into computer systems. Enters test requests into the Laboratory Information System (LIS).
5.Prepares test runs by pulling specimens for worksheet, matching specimens and requisitions. Assigns accessioning numbers to requisitions and corresponding specimens.
6.Prepares, records and sends specimens and appropriate request forms to outside/referral laboratories and hospitals according to Transport of Dangerous Goods (TDG) and other regulatory requirements.
7.Centrifuges blood and body fluids.
8.Aliquots blood and other body fluid samples in accordance with established procedures.
9.Maintains daily cleaning and disinfection of work areas and equipment according to established schedule and procedures by performing duties such as: preparing fresh disinfectant solutions, wiping bench tops and equipment following established procedures, cleaning centrifuges and testing and maintaining the section safety eyewash and shower according to established weekly and monthly procedures. Performs waste management duties as per standard operating procedures.
10.Performs the dip stick portion of routine urinalysis.
11.Responds to requests for the status of blood tests by checking the computer terminal or laboratory records when required. Forwards requests for test interpretation to Medical Laboratory Technologist in accordance with established procedures.
12.Maintains laboratory equipment such as refrigerators, freezers, and centrifuges and testing equipment as directed by performing duties such as cleaning, and temperature recording. Performs maintenance procedures according to established procedures. Recognizes malfunctions in equipment and reports these to the lead hand or designate.
13.Keeps workstations well stocked with supplies. Monitors supplies and advises lead hand or designate when supplies need replenishing and performs related duties such as receiving, recording and storing new shipments of supplied.
14.Maintains a current knowledge of laboratory safety policies and procedures.
15.Prepares and stains slides when required.
16.Demonstrates work routines to new laboratory personnel as requested.
17.Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Education, Training and Experience
•Completion of Grade 12, successful completion of a recognized Lab Assistant training program plus one (1) year's recent related experience or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Skills and Abilities
•Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
•Ability to deal with others effectively.
•Ability to organize work.
•Ability to operate keyboard, perform data entry, use word processing and email.
•Ability to type 25 wpm.
•Ability to work independently and in cooperation with others.
•Ability to operate related equipment.
•Physical ability to carry out the duties of the position.