Phlebotomist

About the role

The Phlebotomist is responsible for proper identification of patients, skillful performance of phlebotomy procedures, and the transport and processing of specimens. This position involves performing waived procedures unsupervised under the direction of a technologist or laboratory management.

Responsibilities

• Performs assigned pre-analytical processes including processing orders from the EMR, determining specimen requirements, and phlebotomy procedures.
• Access, input, and retrieve information from the EMR.
• Perform phlebotomy in various settings such as inpatient, outpatient, Emergency Department, nursery, Medical Outpatient, dialysis, etc.
• Phlebotomy on patients by the appropriate method, using aseptic techniques, STAT draws within 15 minutes or order, routines within seven minutes between patients. Obtain throat and nasal collections.
• Properly identifies patients prior to phlebotomy with two means of identification.
• Properly labels all specimens with required information at patient's side. Hand labels tubes with two identifiers if labels are not available. Initials tube label and includes specific collection time. Instructs patients on proper collection procedures.
• Dispose of contaminated sharps, blood, and/or body fluids in accordance with Infection Prevention policies.
• Performs assigned analytical tests or procedures including, but not limited to, waived tests such as dip urinalysis, urine pregnancy tests, and other kit tests.
• Performs daily, weekly, monthly, and as needed preventative maintenance according to schedule. Performs daily start up and function checks prior to patient specimen testing.
• Performs assigned post-analytical procedures including, but not limited to, reporting test results to authorized personnel, storing completed specimens properly, and performing instrument shutdown.
• Maintains accurate records of quality control policies and recognizes out-of-control results and notifies supervisory personnel.
• Maintains adequate supplies in phlebotomy outpatient areas, and on trays.
• Responsible for ordering of supplies.
• Performs specimen pick-ups.
• Trains new phlebotomists and other medical personnel in phlebotomy.
• Answers the phone in a professional and pleasant manner and provides information requested.
• Able to work extra during staff shortages or until workload is complete. May include working shifts other than that currently scheduled.
• Maintains accurate and complete documentation.
• Able to organize and prioritize work during both heavy and light workload situations.
• Demonstrates the ability to navigate and perform functions accurately and efficiently with computer software applicable to the department and the Beloit Health System.
• Interacts in a positive, responsible, and cooperative manner with patients, physicians, co-workers, and managers.
• Portrays a positive image for the Beloit Health System by dressing appropriately for the position. Wears photo ID badge for proper identification by others.
• Maintains a safe work environment for self and others. Attends mandatory safety training sessions and adheres to Beloit Health System and OSHA safety requirements.
• Ensures security of Patient Health Information (PHI). Maintains confidentiality of all patient and employee information and records, Beloit Health System financial information and business practices.
• Maintains acceptable levels of initiative and productivity.
• Abides by Attendance policy for absences and tardiness.

Requirements

• High school graduate or equivalent required.
• Certification as a phlebotomist desirable.
• Requires the ability to work independently and to react calmly and effectively, and to move at a fast pace to meet deadlines for emergency procedures.
• Requires the ability to interact positively with physicians, nursing staff, and clientele.
• Requires knowledge and the ability to maintain safety precautions while using equipment and performing daily laboratory procedures.
• Employee possesses the training, knowledge, and skills necessary to perform one or more of the following activities (evaluation, treatment, and/or patient care) for patients in one or more of the following age groups: neonatal, pediatric, adolescent, and geriatric.
• Maintains current CPR certification. (Re-certification required every two (2) years.)
• Requires critical thinking skills using logic and reasoning.
• Requires development of working relationships with direct coworkers and other department staff, and maintaining them over time.