Laboratory Assistant

To perform laboratory specimen preparations and related procedures in terms of pre and post testing standard operating procedures.

• Grade 12 or relevant NQF level 4 qualification
• Registration in relevant discipline with HPCSA
• 2-3 Yrs Relevant Working Experience

Receives, sorts and refers (where applicable) specimens for testing.

Verifies, capture and validates information on the Meditech system against specimens received and tests requested on the requisition form.

Carries out different laboratory procedures for specimen and/or media preparation for analysis in accordance with the specific test required and standard operating procedures.

Performs tasks in support of the analytical process as per discipline requirements, e.g. stain preparation; glassware wash-up etc.

Labels and stores samples/media (where applicable) to ensure traceability in accordance with procedures.

Monitors stock availability of consumables to ensure availability of all necessary commodities.

Operates, maintains and calibrates the general laboratory equipment e.g. stopwatch, centrifuge, used in the laboratory to ensure that it is operating efficiently and providing accurate results. This includes recording equipment maintenance and quality control results as well as recognising and resolving problems by troubleshooting mal- functioning equipment and using alternative procedures as per syllabus or as instructed by the laboratory manager.

Implements sound housekeeping procedures and work effectively with others as a member of a team to ensure a safe working environment in accordance with relevant legislation and all safety protocols. This includes the on-going maintenance of quality assurance standards, adherence to infection control measures, correct disposal of bio-hazardous waste and participation (as per delegated responsibilities) in the preparation process for internal and external quality control audits.

Reports incidents, equipment failures, problems and reads documents and actions tasks on the laboratory information management system in compliance with relevant organisational policy.

Attends seminars and participates in continuing professional development (CPD) activities to continuously update knowledge and skills as well as comply with professional registration requirements. This includes ensuring the availability of up to date records that can be presented immediately on request thereof.

Adheres to professional and ethical conduct requirements in line with organisational policy and relevant professional body ethical standards.

• Medical ethical guidelines in the medical pathology field
• Laboratory information systems
• Laboratory standards operating procedures and processes
• Anatomy, physiology and medical terminology relevant to medical pathology
• Organisational policy and procedures