Phlebotomist

Phlebotomist

The phlebotomist is responsible for the collection of quality biological specimens for laboratory testing, distribution of specimens to proper departments, and proper preparation and handling of specimens for laboratory analysis.

Responsibilities

Provides superior customer service by maintaining positive relations with patients during invasive procedures. Responds to the needs of customers of all ages and helps to resolve exceptions. Helps maintain laboratory market share with direct, professional communication with patients, physicians, nurses, and medical departments and outreach customers. Educates patients and other laboratory clients in proper test protocol.

Accurately interprets physician orders to collect high quality specimens.

Performs invasive procedures including venipuncture, micro-capillary collections, central line draws (where applicable) and other test procedures on patients of all age groups by following exact protocols and procedures, including patient preparation prior to testing and administration of various glucose dosages.

Handles specimens including selection of the appropriate specimen type to ensure high quality, reliable test results. Provides the timely distribution of specimens to ensure the shortest possible turnaround time in order to reduce expenses within medical departments and improve patient care. Communicates with and prepares esoteric specimens for shipment to reference laboratories. Maintains specimen integrity.

Other duties and responsibilities:

• Follows patient registration procedures where required.
• Follows strict identification policies to accurately identify specimens.
• Demonstrates competency in Infection Prevention and Control practices and policies. Follows hand hygiene policies and utilizes personal protective equipment as required.
• Computer skills: knows multiple functions in the Laboratory Information System (LIS) and Hospital Information System (HIS), and reference lab computers.
• Uses the LIS computer to schedule work load and inpatient rounds; interprets test orders and places them into the computer, retrieves billing information and assists with patient registration, communicates test results according to strict confidentiality standards.
• Adheres to all laboratory policies and procedures.
• Maintains confidentiality of all medical information. Adheres to all Federal CLIA, CAP, and OSHA regulations.
• Demonstrates knowledge and ability and competence in treating patients who range in age from birth to 100+ years.
• In the performance of the regular job duties, it is appropriate for this position to have access to the medication room for the purpose of using the pneumatic tube station (where applicable).
• All other duties as assigned.

Certifications and Licensures

Credential: Drivers License Equivalent Experience: In order to drive the company vehicle, must be eligible under the medical center insurance guidelines.

Credential: Fingerprinting

Required Education

Education: High School Diploma or GED Equivalent Experience: Requires the completion of a formal phlebotomy program that includes both classroom and practical (on-the-job) experience, has equivalent education, or a minimum of 3-4 years of phlebotomy experience.

Other Information

EXPERIENCE, TRAINING AND SKILLS:

• Communication, customer service, and organizational skills required.
• Mandatory Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) training must also be completed annually according to the Exposure Control Plan.
• Knowledge of specimen integrity guidelines; laboratory test and medical terminology; current laboratory policies, procedures, and protocols preferred.

Physical/Mental Requirements and Typical Working Conditions

• Exposure to stressful situations, including those involving public contact, as well as, trauma, grief and death.
• Able to wear personal protective equipment that includes latex materials or appropriate substitute if required for your position.
• Is able to move freely about facility with or without an assisted device and must be able to perform the functions of the job as outlined in the job description.
• Overall vision and hearing is necessary with or without assisted device(s).
• Frequently required to sit/stand/walk for long periods of time. May require frequent postural changes such as stooping, kneeling or crouching.
• Some exposure to blood borne pathogens and other potentially infectious material. Must follow MyMichigan Health bloodborne pathogen and TB testing as required.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks, get along with others, work independently, regular and predictable attendance and ability to stay awake.
• Overall dexterity is required including handling, reaching, grasping, fingering and feeling. May require repetition of these movements on a regular to frequent basis.
• Physical Demand Level: Light. Must be able to occasionally (0-33% of the workday) lift or carry 11-20 lbs., frequently (34-66% of the workday) 10 lbs. and or Walk/Stand/Push/Pull of Arm/Leg controls.