Phlebotomist

POSITION TITLE: PHLEBOTOMIST

FLSA: NON - EXEMPT

Job Summary:

A Phlebotomist is a healthcare professional responsible for drawing blood from patients for medical testing. This role requires strong technical skills, attention to detail, and excellent interpersonal abilities to ensure patient comfort and safety.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Perform phlebotomy (both venous and capillary) on patients of all ages, including adults, children, and infants, providing accurate and efficient collection while minimizing discomfort.
• Assess patient conditions and identify appropriate sites for blood collection based on patient anatomy and safety protocols.
• Label and prepare specimens accurately for in-house testing and shipment to reference labs, ensuring all samples are properly identified and documented.
• Enter data and accession specimens for reference laboratories, maintaining organized records that comply with privacy regulations.
• Perform approved waived testing as per Clinical Nursing Policies, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards.
• Report abnormal results to the ordering provider and, when receiving verbal results from reference labs, read back results to confirm accuracy before notifying the provider.
• Maintain proper documentation for laboratory logs, following policy N-180, and ensure filing of reports and reconciliation is completed accurately and timely.
• Ensure that laboratory department beginning and end of day duties comply with SCHC policies and procedures.
• Report any faulty equipment, abnormal results, or tests that were not performed to the appropriate personnel promptly.
• Operate and maintain phlebotomy equipment, ensuring all tools are sterile and functioning properly. Report any equipment malfunctions, supply shortages, or increased usage trends to the appropriate personnel.
• Greet patients warmly, explain procedures clearly, and address any questions or concerns to ensure a positive experience.
• Assist patients with any forms or documentation required during the blood collection process.
• Work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals, including nurses, physicians, and laboratory personnel, to ensure effective patient care and communication.
• Assist in the training of new laboratory personnel and students, sharing knowledge of best practices and protocols in phlebotomy and specimen handling.
• Participate in quality assurance (QA) activities, tracking and recording statistical data related to blood collection and laboratory performance.
• Perform additional tasks as needed to support the centers.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate.
• Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment.
• Must be able to effectively manage workflow and maintain high-quality standards in environments where staffing levels may be below ideal, demonstrating the ability to prioritize tasks and collaborate with the team under pressure.
• Ability to use office equipment, including computers, copy machines, fax machines, telephones, calculators, and more.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, Electronic Medical Records (EMR) and related software.
• Familiar with most commonly used with ICD 10 and CPT codes.

Education and Experience:

• High School Diploma or equivalent is required.
• Phlebotomist certification or diploma is required
• BLS is required within three months of hire and maintain in current status.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand for long durations while performing and consulting with patients.
• Ability to lift, carry, or move up to 25-50 pounds (e.g., assisting patients, handling equipment, or supplies).
• Must be able to travel to various center locations as required.