PHLEBOTOMIST

Phlebotomist

The Phlebotomist will perform phlebotomy utilizing a variety of techniques. This position will be responsible for accurately performing specimen collection of inpatients and/or outpatients. Samples collected by the phlebotomist are used for laboratory test procedures that are essential in the diagnosis and treatment of patients. The incumbent will be accountable for the accurate data entry of order and collection information, verification and receipt of specimens, and the processing of reports and result inquiry requests.

Essential Job Functions

• Demonstrates competency in Laboratory Information System (LIS) functions by accurately placing orders, monitor various reports to track specimen and/or results, responding to system errors, and correctly look up test codes, collection info, and physician demographics.
• Follow standard precautions when performing venous or capillary phlebotomy.
• Assure the correct identification of patient and specimen by using two identifiers.
• Follow specific written department protocols for blood collection and post-venipuncture care.
• Respond to pages within an acceptable time frame and based on appropriate prioritization.
• Demonstrate minimal redraws and performs in compliance with redraw policy.
• Maintain acceptable blood culture contamination rate of <2%.
• Assist or perform specimen procurement techniques as required.
• Assist with urine drug screen collections and collections for legal alcohols, following established protocol.
• Perform nasal and throat swab collections.
• Receive and process laboratory orders, document receipt of specimens, and assess basic specimen appropriateness.
• Process orders and patients appropriately during downtime to ensure progression to testing.
• Interact effectively with healthcare providers, co-workers, and patients to represent the department and to obtain and exchange information needed to expedite quality laboratory services.
• Assure that telephones are answered with professional etiquette and manage calls to keep hold time and transfers to a minimum.
• Remain current with changes in department protocols to communicate accurate information.
• Deliver specimens to laboratory in a timely manner, packaging samples to ensure safe transport.
• Fill supply orders and send supplies to floors as needed.
• Monitor collection lists and unreceived lists.
• Maintain operational readiness to provide prompt response to service requests.
• Inventories and rotate stock to limit unnecessary waste, monitor phlebotomy basket for outdated inventory.
• Perform scanning and indexing of patient orders at time of registration.
• Ready samples for transport, including all computer work required, i.e. click and pack, tracking, etc.
• Operate hospital vehicles in compliance with all regulations, ensuring safe and efficient travel between collection sites.
• Participate in the phlebotomy competency and validation of new employees, RN's and technical partners.
• Other duties as assigned.

Competency and Experience [Knowledge, Skills and Abilities]

Required Qualifications/Experience

• High School Diploma, GED or next level of higher education.
• Completion of Phlebotomy or Medical Assistant Training Program or six (6) months experience performing phlebotomy.
• Knowledge of coding, basic math, and payer/insurance benefits is preferred.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office applications and general office related equipment, such as a fax or copier is preferred.
• Medical terminology and specimen knowledge and laboratory information system experience preferred.

Preferred Qualifications/Experience

• Experience in Healthcare setting.

License, Certification & Clearances

• Valid Driver's License.
• Act 33 with renewal.
• Act 34 with renewal.
• Act 73 FBI Clearance with renewal.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

• Incumbent will be scheduled based on operational need (rotate shifts, standby, on-call, etc.).
• Travel may be expected locally between System locations.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Independence Health and its affiliated companies are Equal Opportunity Employers. It is their policy to prohibit discrimination of any type and to afford equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, or genetic information, or any other classification protected by law. Independence Health and its affiliated companies will comply with all applicable laws and regulations.

Disclaimer

This job description is not designed to contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Moreover, duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Work Environment

Effective March 2020 or during pandemic: goggles, face shield and mask are required according to CDC guidelines