Phlebotomist

Phlebotomist

The Phlebotomist is responsible for providing safe, efficient, and patient-centered phlebotomy and specimen collection services to students receiving care at the Health Center. The position performs venipuncture and other specimen collection procedures, prepares specimens for laboratory testing, maintains accurate documentation, and supports the delivery of high-quality health services in a university environment. The Phlebotomist serves as an important point of contact for students and is expected to create a professional, respectful, welcoming, and culturally responsive experience while maintaining strict standards for patient privacy, infection prevention, specimen integrity, and regulatory compliance. Job Hours: Monday - Friday - 8:00am - 5:00pm *Required to fill-in for the medical laboratory technician when needed.

Examples of Duties

Patient Care & Phlebotomy • Perform venipuncture and capillary blood collection using appropriate techniques and equipment. • Obtain blood and other clinical specimens according to established laboratory and provider protocols. • Verify patient identity using appropriate identifiers prior to specimen collection. • Explain collection procedures to students and answer routine questions regarding the process. • Assess the student's general condition and respond appropriately to anxiety, fainting, or other reactions associated with specimen collection. • Provide appropriate post-procedure instructions and ensure the student is stable before leaving the collection area. Specimen Management • Properly label, handle, process, store, and transport specimens according to established laboratory procedures. • Prepare specimens for in-house testing or shipment to reference laboratories. • Monitor specimen collection supplies and maintain appropriate inventory levels. • Identify and report specimen problems, rejected specimens, or collection errors promptly. Clinical Support • Assist physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, and other health center personnel with clinical procedures as permitted by training and scope of practice. • Support point-of-care testing and other approved laboratory procedures. • Maintain a clean, organized, and appropriately stocked phlebotomy and laboratory area. • Follow established protocols for sharps disposal, exposure prevention, and infection control. • Maintain required certifications, training, competency assessments, and continuing education.

Typical Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED. • Completion of an accredited phlebotomy training program or equivalent education/training. • Current phlebotomy certification where required by applicable law, institutional policy, or laboratory requirements. • Demonstrated competency in venipuncture and specimen collection. • Basic computer skills and ability to learn electronic health record and laboratory systems. • Ability to communicate effectively with students, healthcare providers, and laboratory personnel. • One year of phlebotomy experience in a hospital, physician practice, outpatient clinic, student health center, laboratory, or similar healthcare setting. (Preferred) • CPR/BLS certification. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities The successful candidate should demonstrate: • Strong venipuncture and specimen-collection skills. • Excellent attention to detail and accuracy. • Strong interpersonal and customer service skills. • Ability to communicate clearly and professionally. • Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment. • Ability to remain calm when working with anxious or difficult-to-draw patients. • Ability to recognize and appropriately escalate urgent clinical concerns. • Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team. • Commitment to providing equitable, respectful, and student-centered care. • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a busy ambulatory healthcare environment

Supplemental Information

The position requires the ability to: • Stand and walk for extended periods. • Perform repetitive hand and wrist movements associated with specimen collection. • Safely perform venipuncture and handle laboratory specimens. • Lift and transport supplies and equipment within established safety limits. • Wear appropriate personal protective equipment. • Respond promptly to patient-care needs and clinical emergencies. Work Environment The Phlebotomist works primarily in the Health Center's clinical and laboratory areas and interacts regularly with students, healthcare providers, health center staff, and outside laboratory partners. The position may involve exposure to blood, bodily fluids, infectious materials, sharps, and other healthcare-related hazards. Appropriate training, personal protective equipment, and safety procedures will be provided and must be followed.