Clinical Lab Assistant

Clinical Lab Assistant (CLA)

Summary

The Clinical Lab Assistant (CLA) reports to a Senior Technician or Manager. Under general supervision and with appropriate training and documented competency, the CLA performs complex laboratory testing within the assigned laboratory section. Responsibilities may span all phases of laboratory testing and daily operations, including pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical activities.

The CLA is expected to demonstrate a professional level of knowledge to read and interpret laboratory tests. Collegiate experience in the sciences, particularly laboratory-related coursework, is preferred.

Brown University Health employees are expected to model the organization’s core values of Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence, which guide interactions with patients, customers, and colleagues.

In addition, all employees are expected to demonstrate the organization’s Success Factors, including:

• Instill Trust and Value Differences
• Patient and Community Focus and Collaboration

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

• Receive specimens, confirm patient identification, validate sample appropriateness, and perform add-on testing, label reprints, and sample aliquoting while preventing contamination or mislabeling.
• Understand clinical tests, required sample handling, and corresponding methodologies.
• Understand the clinical significance of test results and collaborate with laboratory staff to confirm unusual results or procedural variations.
• Consult with a Specialist or Manager regarding unusual situations, following established procedures and detailed instructions.
• Record and report test results to ordering physicians or the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH), as required.
• Assist with the instruction and orientation of new employees as needed.
• Maintain familiarity with new test procedures as introduced or directed by leadership.
• Troubleshoot operational issues, including conflicting orders or sample integrity concerns.
• Perform routine laboratory functions, including:
  • Loading samples onto automation systems
  • Responding to pneumatic tube systems
  • Loading and unloading blood culture samples
  • Performing waived testing
• Perform daily maintenance, calibration, and quality control on laboratory instruments, automation components, and devices.
• When assigned to Blood Bank:
  • Handle blood products and ensure adequate inventory
  • Act as liaison between the Blood Bank and Operating Room (OR)
  • Maintain OR blood storage refrigerators
  • Ensure testing is completed for OR patients
• Clean and maintain laboratory equipment, benches, and work areas.
• Assist with inventory control, including stocking supplies to maintain laboratory readiness.
• Participate in the Quality Management (QM) program, including:
  • Entering patient safety events into electronic systems
  • Verifying manually entered results
• Comply with all Quality Management, Safety, Infection Control, and HIPAA guidelines in accordance with hospital and departmental policies.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Education / Basic Knowledge

• Bachelor’s degree in a laboratory science (e.g., chemical, physical, biological, clinical laboratory science, or medical technology)

Experience

• Collegiate experience in the sciences, particularly laboratory-related studies

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

• Ability to operate laboratory equipment and follow section-specific procedures accurately
• Proficiency with computers and ability to navigate laboratory websites to locate testing and specimen requirements
• Physical and visual dexterity required to conduct testing and interpret results
• Ability to stand for extended periods and work in laboratory and operating room environments
• Exposure to odors, infectious materials, toxins, and hazardous substances
• Ability to routinely stand, lift, and carry supplies and equipment

Independent Action

• Performs duties independently within established departmental policies and procedures
• Refers complex or unusual issues to a Specialist, Manager, or Director of the Send Out Lab as needed for clarification

Supervisory Responsibility

• None