Medical Lab Assistant

The Medical Laboratory Assistant is an integral part of the Emergency Department healthcare team. Under supervision and direction is responsible for the proper collection and processing of appropriate specimens for laboratory testing on inpatients and outpatients. Performs a variety of laboratory tasks, including but not exclusive to venous and capillary specimen collection, sample labeling, data entry, specimen separation and preparation, which require learned manual skills rather than a technological training. 

The Laboratory Assistant will perform ECG testing as required.  Other duties may include urinalysis basic tests, miscellaneous clerical responsibilities, inventory monitoring and ordering of supplies in the ED.  The MLA will be actively involved in the education of ED staff with regard to specimen collection, labelling, and order of draw, including laboratory regulatory standards. The MLA will participate in CQI initiatives in both the ED and Laboratory to collaborate and drive continuous improvement to ensure the highest quality samples.

The MLA will participate in Point of Care Testing in the ED. The MLA may perform daily and weekly maintenance, liquid QC checks, upload glucose meters, run EQA samples, track new lots of reagent on supply shelves and perform new lot reagent evaluations under the direction of the POCT office. The MLA will support training of new nurses on maintenance, QC and patient testing,  training of technical health care aids - maintenance and QC , troubleshooting instrument failures and implementation of new/replacement Point of Care instruments.
The Medical Laboratory Assistant may order and label microbiology, pathology specimens, and other laboratory samples to ensure correct requisitioning, computing data entry of patient and test information, and prepare samples for transport to the laboratory.
The MLA will contribute to ensuring there is a safe environment for patients, staff and visitors
Additional Responsibilities may include but are not limited to:
• Ensure compliance with standard operating procedures and IQMH accreditation standards 
• Perform all quality control procedures and basic troubleshooting when indicated and according to established protocol. Report unresolved problems to the Supervising Technologist. 
• Be knowledgeable in safety practices, and follow safe procedures at all times. 
• Demonstrate ability to prioritize work and respond to urgent unpredictable demands for STAT testing. 
• Demonstrate a professional, respectful and courteous attitude with other staff.  Communicate effectively with physicians, nurses and other hospital personnel 
• Participate in the departments Quality Assurance Program and accreditation compliance plans. 

1.Grade 12 education or recognized equivalent
2. CSMLS/ MLPAO Certified Medical Laboratory Assistant Certificate
3. Minimum (3 years) experience is required with demonstrated proficiency with Specimen Management in EPIC.
4. Demonstrated experience in receiving and handling Laboratory Specimens
5. Demonstrated experience and demonstrated proficiency in venous and capillary blood collection and collection of other body fluids as necessary
6. Excellent communication skills and ability to work in a team environment
7. Data entry skills preferred
8. ECG competency preferred
9. VAT/IV Insertion training completion preferred
10. Proficiency  with POCT quality control and processes using  glucometers, Clinitek and other POC devices in ED.
11.  Commitment to working as an integral part of the interdisciplinary team to ensure the best care for all.
12. Commitment to providing an Excellent Patient Experience with each patient/family
 13. Evidence of consistent attendance and punctuality