Dynamic and detail-oriented Lab Assistant with proven expertise at Iroquois Memorial Hospital in specimen collection and processing and lab equipment maintenance. Recognized for enhancing laboratory efficiency and ensuring compliance with quality control procedures. Strong communicator with a commitment to patient safety and confidentiality, skilled in phlebotomy and data management.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
Work History
Lab Assistant and Pathology Assistant
Iroquois Memorial Hospital
Watseka, IL
06.1997 - Current
Assisted in conducting experiments, following established protocols and safety guidelines.
Maintained laboratory equipment and ensured cleanliness of work areas.
Prepared samples for analysis, accurately labeling and organizing materials.
Supported senior staff with data collection and documentation tasks.
Collaborated with team members to streamline workflows and improve efficiency.
Ensured accurate test results with proper use of lab equipment and adherence to protocols.
Enhanced laboratory efficiency by maintaining and organizing equipment, supplies, and samples.
Ensured precise logging of samples in computerized system.
Maintained lab by calibrating equipment and cleaning surfaces and items used.
Managed specimen sample handling, receiving, storage and inventory.
Learned to operate laboratory instruments under supervision, enhancing technical skills.
Prepared specimens for testing and analysis.
Demonstrated flexibility working in a fast-paced and ever-changing environment.
Assisted with support duties such as filling products, labeling products, testing samples and taking inventory.
Demonstrated competence in collecting lab samples for testing.
Worked closely with lab staff on special projects.
Provided assistance in training new lab personnel on proper techniques, safety guidelines, and protocol adherence for smooth integration into the team environment.
Maintained confidentiality of sensitive information pertaining to research findings, methodologies, or patient data when required by regulations or ethical standards.
Prioritized tasks efficiently to meet project deadlines while maintaining high-quality results in a fast-paced laboratory environment.
Learned multiple molecular biological techniques.
Tracked collected specimens by initialing, dating, and noting times of collection.
Prepared samples for shipping and disposed of bodily fluids in proper containers.
Inspected laboratory equipment to maintain good working condition for optimal results.
Prepared reagents, media and solutions to use for laboratory testing and analysis.
Adhered to laboratory safety procedures to maintain compliance with quality control standards.
Participated in lab meetings and project presentations.
Prepared samples for analysis by performing complex sample preparation tasks.
Troubleshot and resolved equipment and process issues.
Prepared reagents and solutions following standard laboratory formulas and procedures.
Recorded and analyzed data to produce reports of results.
Trained and supervised junior technicians in laboratory protocols.
Collaborated with researchers and scientists to design and execute experiments.
Kept abreast of current industry, scientific and regulatory developments and issues.
Assisted in specimen collection and processing to ensure timely lab results.
Maintained laboratory equipment, ensuring compliance with safety standards and operational efficiency.
Medical Assistant
Villifria Family Practice
Watseka, IL
09.1998 - 10.2011
Assisted healthcare providers with patient examinations and procedures.
Managed patient records using electronic health record (EHR) systems.
Administered medications and monitored patient reactions for safety.
Scheduled appointments and coordinated communication between patients and medical staff.
Conducted routine laboratory tests ensuring accuracy in results.
Educated patients on treatment plans and preventive care measures.
Streamlined office workflows to enhance patient flow and reduce wait times.
Sanitized, restocked, and organized exam rooms and medical equipment.
Obtained client medical history, medication information, symptoms, and allergies.
Directed patients to exam rooms, fielded questions, and prepared for physician examinations.
Performed medical records management, including filing, organizing and scanning documents.
Built strong relationships with patients through effective communication skills that foster trust in the clinic''s commitment to quality care.
Maintained a safe and clean clinical environment by adhering to infection control guidelines and disposing of biohazardous waste properly.
Assisted physicians with minor surgeries, including preparing operating room and sterilizing instruments.
Kept medical supplies in sufficient stock by monitoring levels and submitting replenishment orders before depleted.
Boosted patient satisfaction by providing compassionate care and promptly addressing needs during visits.
Performed phlebotomy tasks efficiently while ensuring minimal discomfort for patients during blood collection procedures.
Contributed to positive health outcomes by educating patients on preventative measures, treatment plans, and follow-up care instructions.
Aided in accurate diagnoses by performing laboratory tests and preparing specimens for analysis.
Provided support during emergencies by administering first aid treatments under physician supervision until further assistance arrived.
Assisted in the development of clinic policies and procedures to ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.
Education
Certificate - Phlebotomy
Kankakee Community College
Kankakee, IL
05.1995
Skills
Laboratory techniques
Specimen processing
Lab equipment maintenance
Lab inventory management
Phlebotomy
HIPAA compliance
Sterilization procedures
Hazardous waste disposal
Equipment management
Quality control procedures
Database maintenance
Quality control guidelines
Equipment calibration
Slide mounting
Manual dexterity
Solution preparation
Data entry
Reagent mixing
Pipetting accuracy
Tissue sample handling
Workstation organization
Fungal cultures specialist
Rapid tests
Sterile processing
Serology
MRSA cultures proficiency
Bacterial culturing
Research assistance
Excellent lab practices
Sample labeling
Dilution calculations
Patient recommended
Request by several patients daily for me to collect their blood sample. Complementing me on a painless, efficient and pleasant experience. Also experienced in drawing pediatrics , special needs, elderly, and nursing home patients.
Laboratory Assistant, Microbiology and Pathology at HCA Healthcare: Good Samaritan HospitalLaboratory Assistant, Microbiology and Pathology at HCA Healthcare: Good Samaritan Hospital