Lab assistants do a variety of what’s called “pre-analytical” functions. Some examples are venipuncture, receiving and labeling specimens, verifying test orders, entering patient and test information into a database, keeping track of lab supply inventory, preparing specimens in various ways. This could include inoculating and streaking out culture dishes, separating serum from blood samples, preparing slides, plating and processing microbiology specimens, operating and maintaining semi-automated test equipment. Duties may also include fixing blood/tissue specimens on slides, and using computers to input data. Lab assistants can also perform some lesser complexity testing as allowed by regulations. They also may perform administrative tasks such as answering telephone calls and keeping records. LA’s usually work in support of the pathologists, medical laboratory technologists or clinical laboratory scientist.
A Lab Assistance duties vary depending on the location of employment.