Carla Merkerson
Middleburg,FL
Summary
At LabCorp Ascension St. Vincent's Clay Lab, I spearheaded efforts to enhance lab efficiency and team productivity, notably through streamlining sample processing and improving data entry systems. My expertise in laboratory management and collaborative teamwork significantly reduced test result turnaround times, while my commitment to quality control and safety standards ensured high accuracy and compliance.
As laboratory professional, brings valuable experience in managing lab operations and guiding teams to success. Consistently ensures precise execution of tasks and adherence to safety protocols. Highly reliable, adaptable to changing needs, and skilled in problem-solving and team collaboration.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Lab Assistant
LabCorp Ascension St. Vincent's Clay Lab
12.2007 - Current
- Improved laboratory efficiency by streamlining sample processing and data entry procedures.
- Maintained a clean and organized work environment, promoting safety and reducing chances of contamination or errors.
- Enhanced team productivity with thorough training and continuous support for junior lab assistants.
- Reduced turnaround time for test results by implementing a prioritization system based on urgency and complexity of tests.
- Provided clear communication between the lab staff and management regarding progress updates, challenges, and achievements.
- Maintained compliance with industry regulations and company policies through diligent documentation practices and adherence to guidelines.
- Participated in cross-functional teams to address process improvements within the organization''s broader scope.
- Ensured accurate test results by conducting quality control checks on laboratory equipment and processes regularly.
- Collaborated with other lab personnel to develop new testing methods, leading to more efficient workflows.
- Served as primary point of contact for laboratory inquiries from other departments within the organization, ensuring efficient information flow between parties involved.
- Coordinated schedules for lab technicians, optimizing staff resources during peak testing periods.
- Assisted in the development of standard operating procedures, contributing to consistent lab practices across the team.
- Evaluated performance metrics for individual lab assistants, identifying areas for improvement while acknowledging and rewarding achievements.
- Troubleshot technical issues with laboratory instruments, resolving problems quickly to minimize downtime.
- Assisted in the hiring process for new lab assistants by conducting interviews and evaluating candidate qualifications, contributing to the selection of high-quality team members.
- Maintained documentation on tests performed in lab.
- Tracked collected specimens by initialing, dating, and noting times of collection.
- Performed testing and quality control using approved laboratory procedures and instrumentation.
- Trained new laboratory personnel to apply proper laboratory techniques and best practices.
- Prepared samples for shipping and disposed of bodily fluids in proper containers.
- Prepared reagents, media and solutions to use for laboratory testing and analysis.
- Oversaw items in inventory and reordered before supplies diminished.
- Adhered to laboratory safety procedures to maintain compliance with quality control standards.
- Participated in lab meetings and project presentations.
Education
Associate of Applied Science - Medical Assistant/Phlebotmoy
Medical Careers Institute
Hampton, VA06-2006
Skills
- Collaborative teamwork
- Chemical handling
- Sample analysis
- Laboratory management
- Laboratory safety
- Laboratory techniques
- Verbal and written communication
- Sample preparation
- Specimen handling
- Quality control monitoring
- Specimen collection
- Phlebotomy
- Infection control
Timeline
Lead Lab Assistant
LabCorp Ascension St. Vincent's Clay Lab
12.2007 - Current
Associate of Applied Science - Medical Assistant/Phlebotmoy
Medical Careers Institute
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