Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Awards
Timeline
Generic

Helen Tariku

Clinical Laboratory Scientist
Lorton,VA

Summary

Experienced healthcare professional with a strong background in laboratory analysis, clinical systems, and healthcare data management. Seeking to utilize technical expertise, analytical skills, and clinical background as a Mychart Digital Solution Analyst to optimize healthcare workflows and enhance patient outcomes. With over 4 years of experience as a dedicated Clinical Laboratory Scientist, brings expertise in microbiology, chemistry, and hematology testing. Skilled multitasker with excellent communication and problem-solving abilities, with a proven track record of maintaining equipment and lab areas in compliance with regulatory guidelines.

Overview

4
4
years of professional experience
4
4
years of post-secondary education

Work History

Medical Laboratory Technician (MLS, ASCP)

Virginia Hospital Center
06.2021 - Current
  • Analyzed and processed samples within Hematology, Chemistry, and Microbiology departments
  • Conducted diagnostic tests, including COVID-19 testing, respiratory panels, and influenza testing
  • Verified and reported results through EPIC, ensuring accurate communication with healthcare providers
  • Assisted with kit tests for stool leukocytes, trichomonas, strep A, legionella, and more
  • Performed quality control and maintenance on various instruments including Cobas, Siemens, Rapid ID, XN, SP-10, MIDAS, Sysmex, Liaison, and Virtos
  • Followed safety protocols to maintain safe and secure laboratory environment.
  • Enhanced patient care through accurate and timely diagnostic testing for various medical conditions.
  • Ensured patient confidentiality by adhering to strict privacy guidelines when handling sensitive medical information.
  • Provided excellent customer service to patients by answering questions about lab tests clearly while maintaining empathy for their concerns.
  • Developed strong working relationships with colleagues, fostering a positive team culture focused on collaboration and innovation.
  • Reduced error rates in testing procedures through careful attention to detail and adherence to established protocols.
  • Increased overall lab productivity by optimizing work schedules, prioritizing tasks, and minimizing downtime.

Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Fort Belvoir Community Hospital
03.2022 - 10.2023
  • Conducted laboratory testing for urinalysis, coagulation, hematology, and chemistry
  • Ensured quality control and performed maintenance on lab instruments (Sysmex, Stago, Cobas, Iris)
  • Troubleshot and resolved instrument issues, conducted repairs, and documented corrective actions
  • Analyzed samples for abnormalities using microscopy and Cellavision technology
  • Processed and delivered biological samples, reporting results using CHCS and LIS
  • Trained laboratory students and new employees, enhancing their technical and analytical skills
  • Send out sample aliquots to LabCorp and Walter Reed Hospital
  • Train laboratory students and new employee
  • Assisted with implementation and lab transition to Cerner software
  • Conducted comprehensive blood tests for accurate disease diagnosis, leading to improved patient care.
  • Provided technical support for laboratory information systems, troubleshooting issues as needed to maintain efficient operations.
  • Collaborated with other departments to develop cross-functional initiatives that improved overall patient care and satisfaction.
  • Fostered culture of continuous learning among laboratory staff, enhancing overall expertise.
  • Streamlined communication with healthcare providers, ensuring they received timely updates on test results.

Laboratory Specialist

Divisions of Consolidated Laboratory Services
09.2020 - 05.2021
  • Managed sample support services with a focus on patient information verification for SARS-CoV-2 testing
  • Communicated discrepancies and rejections with team members, ensuring accurate sample processing
  • Performed data mining and analysis to support lab operations and reporting
  • Presented research findings at industry conferences, promoting knowledge sharing among professionals in the field.
  • Trained junior staff members on proper laboratory techniques and procedures, fostering professional growth within the team.

Education

Full-stack Coding Bootcamp -

George Washington University
Arlington, VA
11.2021 - 05.2022

Bachelor of Science - Clinical Laboratory Science

Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA
08.2017 - 05.2021

Skills

  • Epic EMR

  • Microsoft Office Suite

  • Data Entry

  • Data Mining

  • Quality Control

  • Instrumentation Troubleshooting

  • Phlebotomy

  • Critical Thinking

  • Customer Service

  • Specimen Handling

  • Quality Assurance

  • Operational healthcare workflows

  • SDLC concepts

  • EHR system management

Clinical information Systems

Awards

  • Virginia Merit Scholarship Award, 2017-2021
  • Minority Women in Science Scholarship Award, 2017-2019
  • ASCP board of certification
  • Fort Belvoir ACE Award, 2023

Timeline

Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Fort Belvoir Community Hospital
03.2022 - 10.2023

Full-stack Coding Bootcamp -

George Washington University
11.2021 - 05.2022

Medical Laboratory Technician (MLS, ASCP)

Virginia Hospital Center
06.2021 - Current

Laboratory Specialist

Divisions of Consolidated Laboratory Services
09.2020 - 05.2021

Bachelor of Science - Clinical Laboratory Science

Virginia Commonwealth University
08.2017 - 05.2021
Helen TarikuClinical Laboratory Scientist