The Medical Laboratory Assistant is responsible for providing high-quality specimen collection and basic laboratory testing services in an outpatient clinic setting. This position is primarily focused on phlebotomy and specimen collection, with additional responsibility for performing and documenting CLIA-waived laboratory tests according to established procedures and clinic protocols.
The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, dependable, patient-focused, and comfortable working in a fast-paced clinical environment while maintaining strict standards for specimen integrity, infection control, patient identification, and laboratory quality.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
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Perform venipuncture and other specimen collection procedures safely, accurately, and efficiently.
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Obtain and properly label blood, urine, swab, and other clinical specimens as required.
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Verify patient identity and ensure accurate specimen identification and documentation.
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Prepare specimens for in-house testing or transport to reference laboratories.
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Perform CLIA-waived point-of-care laboratory testing in accordance with manufacturer instructions, clinic policies, and applicable regulatory requirements.
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Perform routine waived testing such as, as applicable, urine testing, pregnancy testing, rapid infectious disease testing, glucose testing, and other approved point-of-care tests.
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Document test results accurately in the electronic medical record.
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Follow quality control procedures and maintain required testing logs and documentation.
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Recognize and appropriately report invalid, abnormal, or questionable test results according to clinic protocols.
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Maintain laboratory and phlebotomy supplies, including monitoring inventory and notifying appropriate staff when supplies need to be reordered.
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Clean, disinfect, and maintain work areas and testing equipment according to established procedures.
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Follow CLIA, infection-control, safety, and bloodborne pathogen standards.
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Properly handle, store, package, and dispose of specimens and biohazardous materials.
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Communicate professionally and compassionately with patients while explaining specimen collection and testing procedures.
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Assist clinical staff with laboratory-related tasks as needed.
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Maintain patient confidentiality and comply with HIPAA requirements.
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Perform other related duties as assigned.
Qualifications
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High school diploma or equivalent required.
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Phlebotomy training and/or certification preferred or required based on applicable state and clinic requirements.
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Previous experience with venipuncture and specimen collection strongly preferred.
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Experience performing CLIA-waived point-of-care testing preferred.
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Ability to accurately follow written procedures and manufacturer testing instructions.
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Strong attention to detail and commitment to accurate documentation.
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Excellent communication and patient-service skills.
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Ability to work effectively as part of a clinical team.
Physical Requirements
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Ability to stand and move throughout the clinic for extended periods.
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Ability to perform repetitive hand movements associated with specimen collection and laboratory testing.
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Ability to safely handle blood and other biological specimens.
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Ability to lift and carry laboratory supplies as needed.
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Ability to maintain appropriate infection-control and personal protective equipment practices.
Work Environment
This position works in an outpatient clinical setting and involves direct patient contact, specimen collection, and performance of CLIA-waived laboratory testing only. The Medical Laboratory Assistant must consistently follow established laboratory procedures, quality-control requirements, safety protocols, and applicable regulatory standards.
