CLINICAL LAB ASSISTANT

University of Alabama at Birmingham

General Responsibilities

• Performs all duties related to the preparation, distribution, cataloging and storage of lab specimens for testing.

• Retrieves lab specimens from other collection areas and retrieves patient files needed in the lab areas.

• Processes, packages and stores autologous tissue.

• Cleans operating rooms.

• Adheres to departmental specimen identification policies and quality controls.

• Utilizes lab and hospital information systems and performs outpatient registration for patient specimens received via mail and/or UPS.

• Provides secretarial and clerical support for the laboratory staff in support of lab operations including inventory, ordering and receiving supplies.

• Responds to the unique needs of all patients ages newborn through geriatric.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Receives, organizes and prepares specimens for analysis in the assigned area. Establishes identity of specimens and maintains their storage location for correct identity for subsequent testing.

• Documents any deviation from positive patient identification. Follows through with special precautions required for handling a particular specimen. Maintains proper storage of specimens until testing is performed. Locates missing specimens when necessary.

• Logs and enters all samples in computer databases. Assigns/records location of samples in refrigerator for short term storage, and in freezer for long term storage. Records patient’s sensitization events on patient’s antibody screening card.

• Contacts other units and patients to request blood specimen to be drawn and assists in maintaining current samples on all waiting list patients.

• Performs outpatient registration for patient specimens submitted by the mail and/or UPS.

• Pulls patient files for laboratory staff performing assays and retrieves specimens from other areas of the hospital, clinic and other institutions as needed. Assists with recording of temperatures of instruments/equipment as assigned. Notifies supervisors of any problems with any freezers, refrigerators, or any lab equipment.

• Assists with incoming laboratory phone calls, distributes calls, and takes messages as necessary.

• Assists in the overall operation of the department through innovative ideas and willingness to accept extra work in a professional manner. Abides by all hospital and laboratory regulatory requirements.

• Performs additional duties as assigned or necessary.

• Performs other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Work Characteristics

• Effective verbal and written communication

• Ability to work independently as well as within a group

Hourly Range: $15.00-$20.30

Education

• High School diploma or GED required

• Currently certified as a Certified Tissue Bank Specialist (CTBS) from the American Association of Tissue Banks (AATB) required depending on location.
  

UAB is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, sex (including pregnancy), genetic information, age, disability, and veteran's status. As required by Title IX, UAB prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to UAB's Assistant Vice President and Senior Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX notice of nondiscrimination is located at uab.edu/titleix.