Phlebotomist

Phlebotomist Laboratory Assistant I

Days: Monday – Friday, rotating Saturday's if possible. Saturday hours are 7am-1pm Location: 1865 NJ-70, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003

A Phlebotomist Laboratory Assistant I is an individual trained on-the-job or through a structured Phlebotomy program to draw blood for diagnostic testing from patients aged infant through older adult. The Phlebotomist Laboratory Assistant also processes a variety of clinical specimens for diagnostic laboratory testing, and accesses associated patient records.

Accountabilities:

• Correctly identifies the stage of growth of development of patients and significant others; Utilizes knowledge of growth and development when communicating to various age groups; Explains appropriate information according to age and developmental level of patients and visitors; Identifies communication barriers and intervenes appropriately; Recognizes cultural differences and the need to adjust communication styles and behaviors to meet the needs of the patient (e.g. direct eye contact, touching with transferring); Listens to patient's queries, comments and/or concerns and provides appropriate information and responses; Introduces self when interacting with patients, families, visitors or other employees.
• Entry of (release of) patient demographics, test orders, billing information into a variety of computer systems (EMR/LIS); Follows established SOP and age-specific techniques for the collection of biological specimens for analysis, and evaluates and solves problems related to that process; Correctly identifies outpatients and inpatients according to approved protocols with 100% accuracy; Performs accurate venipuncture and micro (capillary) techniques in sample collection; May perform specialized collection to include breath alcohol testing, hair collection, and EKG's.
• Properly labels specimens with 100% accuracy; Draws all timed/scheduled samples in a timely manner; Observes emotional and physical state of patient for any adverse reactions to phlebotomy; Performs assigned patient-sample processing activities.
• Follows established SOP for the processing of biological specimens for analysis and evaluates and solves problems related to that process; Operates the pneumatic tube system properly and observes all Infection Control policies while handling specimens; Provides timely distribution of specimens to appropriate laboratory sections; Maintains accurate and orderly log records and/or worksheets where required according to SOP's.
• Maintains a safe and orderly work area; Demonstrates safe work practices; Keeps work area free from personal documents & items; Answers phone in a professional, courteous, and timely manner, speaking to caller in a caring manner; Answers questions or refers callers to the appropriate source; Avoids putting caller on hold or transferring call unnecessarily.
• Researches phone inquiries regarding specimen collection or test results by referencing available manuals and records and calls caller back promptly; Understands collection requirements for special or referral testing; prepares specimens, ensures integrity and correctness of sample and arranges for dispatch and pick-up of specimens; Keeps current with laboratory minutes and documented changes.
• Maintains inventory of equipment and supplies and appropriately communicates the need to re-order before supplies run out; Assists with the instruction of procedures and techniques to other employees and students; Performs daily temperature checks on rooms, refrigerators, freezers, incubators, and preventive maintenance on centrifuges as needed.
• Projects an image of professionalism in appearance and conduct at all times; Works well with peers and those in authority; Works to promote the Penn Medicine BE standards; Promotes patient and staff relations and displays pride in work; Complies with Hospital, Laboratory, Safety, and HIPAA regulations; Notifies Supervisor or Safety Officer of hazards when found; Completes annual mandatories on or before the due date; Responsible for maintaining adequate staffing on all three shifts, weekends and holidays.