Lab Assistant II Southwest Facility

As a Lab Assistant II at Mercy Hospital Southwest, your responsibilities include collecting, receiving, and processing blood specimens, performing centrifugation, and loading specimens onto automated analyzers connected to the Laboratory Information System (LIS). You'll also prepare aliquots and manage reference lab specimens, conduct moderate complexity testing under supervision, and support laboratory functions through clerical work and communication.

To qualify for the Lab Assistant II position at Mercy Hospital Southwest, you need to hold a California CPT-2 license and a Heartsaver certification. Additionally, candidates are expected to have the education necessary to obtain these credentials. While prior clinical laboratory experience in an acute hospital is preferred, basic lab bench skills, understanding of medical terminology, and excellent communication abilities are essential for success.

While not mandatory, having at least one year of clinical laboratory experience in an acute hospital setting is preferred for the Lab Assistant II role at Mercy Hospital Southwest. This experience helps applicants to effectively perform phlebotomy functions and adapt to the dynamic workload of a lab environment.

As a Lab Assistant II at Mercy Hospital Southwest, you'll need strong communication and customer service skills, the ability to read, write, and speak English, and a solid understanding of medical terminology. You should also demonstrate proficiency in basic lab techniques and concepts, along with the ability to perform various phlebotomy functions safely and effectively.

Once hired as a Lab Assistant II at Mercy Hospital Southwest, you will need to complete a CPI class within 90 days of hire, with refreshers every two years thereafter. This training is designed to ensure that you are fully equipped to perform your duties with confidence and adhere to the hospital's protocols.

When answering this question, highlight specific techniques such as venous, capillary, and arterial punctures. Discuss the different populations you've served, including adults, pediatrics, and neonates, and emphasize your ability to provide compassionate care during the collection process.

To ensure accuracy in specimen processing, I always verify patient information before starting, follow standard operating protocols meticulously, and double-check results against established references. High attention to detail is crucial to maintain the integrity of tests.

Share a specific example where you remained calm under pressure, perhaps during an emergency or high-volume period. Explain how you prioritized tasks, communicated with your team, and ensured lab operations continued smoothly.

Discuss your experience with automated analyzers, centrifuges, and any specific lab technologies you are familiar with. Emphasize your ability to learn new instruments quickly, ensuring you could integrate into the existing lab team without delay.

Explain your approach to managing clerical tasks such as data entry and communication. Mention any software applications you've used, your organizational skills, and how you prioritize these tasks alongside lab responsibilities.

Discuss practices such as proper sanitization protocols, wearing appropriate PPE, and meticulous technique during specimen handling. Stress the importance of training and constant vigilance to maintaining a clean lab environment.

Share your methods for staying informed, such as participating in professional development, attending workshops, or reading applicable journals. Highlight your commitment to continuous learning in the laboratory field.

Communicating effectively in a lab setting is critical to ensure accuracy, address issues promptly, and collaborate with team members. Illustrate your experience working within a team and how clear communication positively impacts patient care and lab efficiency.

Emphasize the supportive role lab assistants play in patient care by ensuring timely and accurate test results. Discuss how preserving patient dignity during specimen collection and clear communication with healthcare providers directly impact patient outcomes.

Provide examples of how you’ve adapted to increased workload scenarios in the past. Describe techniques such as prioritization, using teamwork to delegate tasks, and maintaining composure to ensure all responsibilities are met effectively.