The Clinical Lab Assistant (“CLA”) 1 may be responsible for the pre-analytical processing of laboratory specimens. Processing includes the following responsibilities: sorting, verification of specimen labeling, order entry and distribution, specimen retrieval. The CLA 1 is responsible for the procurement and preparation of blood specimens by venipuncture and arterial puncture according to departmental standards (proper tube selection with correct additives, patient preparation, puncture site care, and appropriate patient and specimen identification). The CLA 1 is responsible for the collection of electrocardiograms in the inpatient and outpatient settings. The CLA 1 utilizes knowledge of laboratory procedures to prioritize work load and utilizes situations such as combative patients and/or patients that are difficult to draw for various medical reasons. The CLA 1 performs proper collection of throat and nasopharyngeal swabs and gives instruction on how to collect urine, stool, and sputum cultures.

• Ability and willingness to demonstrate and maintain competency as required for job title and the unit/area(s) of assignments.
• Excellent communication skills to include oral and written comprehension/expression.
• Maintain proficiency in computer skills necessary to receive specimens into the laboratory information system accurately recording pertinent data to be used by the physician in the interpretation of test results.
• Ability and willingness to work with patients’ growth and development needs particularly related to the age of patients in the unit/area(s) of assignment.
• Ability to manage a challenging work environment related to changing patient needs, including work with patients with acute, chronic, and complex disease processes, and those who are dying.
• Maintain a high level of customer service, being aware of both internal and external customers, and meeting their needs and expectations.
• Ability and willingness to exhibit behaviors consistent with standards for performance improvement and organizational values (e.g., efficiency & financial responsibility, safety, partnership & service, teamwork, compassion, integrity, and trust & respect).
• Ability and willingness to exhibit behaviors consistent with principles for service excellence.