Phlebotomist/PRN/Days

Major Responsibilities:

• Collects laboratory specimens to include blood, throat and nasal cultures, urine, urine drug screen and invasive nasopharyngeal swab collections, from patients of all ages in accordance with accepted laboratory standards, policies and procedures (operational and safety) in order to ensure optimal specimen integrity and accurate test results.
   
• Performs phlebotomy using appropriate technique based on the physical and psychosocial needs of the neonate, pediatric, adolescent, adult or geriatric patient. Examines site to insure patient safety and satisfaction. Prepares, administers and collects special preparation testing ie: glucose/lactose tolerance and breath tests according to established procedures.
   
• Reviews, prioritizes laboratory test orders and determines the appropriate method and type of specimen to be obtained.
   
• Appropriately labels each specimen according to policy ensuring security of all specimens drawn and delivers specimens to appropriate locations as required.
   
• Performs LIS computer functions, including but not limited to specimen collection/verification, order resolution, and comment entry.
   
• Maintains and stocks the work area as required.
   
• Triages and processes specimen efficiently and accurately according to policy and procedure. (Site specific). Follows protocol for specimen acceptability, utilizing appropriate judgment and policy, identifying problems and interacts with internal and external customers to resolve problems.
   
• Ensures that all specimens are organized, maintained and properly stored or discarded according to policy
   
• Processes specimens ensuring specimen integrity; Understands and follows individual laboratory protocols for specimen requirements, ie centrifugation, specimen additives, storage and special handling, etc.
   
• Follows through with any specimens without orders or orders without specimens to ensure timely processing and testing.
   
• Provision of patient data, specimen status, collection procedures, etc. in response to physician and/or nursing staff inquiries. Provides, as much as possible, a single point of contact within the department for answering questions, troubleshooting problems, receiving information with a positive approach.
   
• Maintains competency in phlebotomy skills and assists in the orientation and training of newly hired phlebotomists and processing personnel.
   
• Training will include demonstration of proper collection techniques (including site selection and order of draw) and patient interactions.

Education/Experience Required:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Completed an accredited phlebotomy training program or equivalent program or at least 6 months hospital phlebotomy experience

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required:

• Ability to communicate both verbally and in writing
• Good organizational skills.
• Courteous and professional
• Good interpersonal skills
• CRT/Computer familiarity
• Customer Service approach to providing care

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:

• Endurance for long periods of standing, bending, and walking; carrying phlebotomy equipment throughout hospital.
• Exposure to contagious diseases, potentially biohazardous specimens and materials.
• Ability to lift up to 35 pounds without assistance. For patient lifts of over 35 pounds, or when patient is unable to assist with the lift, patient handling equipment is expected to be used, with at least one other associate, when available. Unique patient lifting/movement situations will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

This job description indicates the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent may be required to perform other related duties.