Phlebotomist

About the role

The phlebotomy technician draws quality blood samples from patients or blood donors and prepares those specimens for medical testing. The technician has direct contact with patients and must create an atmosphere of trust and confidence while explaining procedures, taking blood pressure, pulse and respiration readings, and drawing blood specimens in a skillful, safe and accurate manner. A phlebotomist must work well under pressure and be sensitive to confidentiality and accuracy in recording a patient's blood history.

Responsibilities

• Dispose of contaminated sharps, in accordance with applicable laws, standards, and policies.
• Document route of specimens from collection to laboratory analysis and diagnosis.
• Draw blood from arteries, using arterial collection techniques.
• Collect fluid or tissue samples, using appropriate collection procedures.
• Dispose of blood or other biohazard fluids or tissue, in accordance with applicable laws, standards, or policies.
• Draw blood from capillaries by dermal puncture, such as heel or finger stick methods.
• Draw blood from veins by vacuum tube, syringe, or butterfly venipuncture methods.
• Explain fluid or tissue collection procedures to patients.
• Match laboratory requisition forms to specimen tubes.
• Organize or clean blood-drawing trays, ensuring that all instruments are sterile and all needles, syringes, or related items are of first-time use.
• Administer subcutaneous or intramuscular injects, in accordance with licensing restrictions.
• Calibrate or maintain machines, such as those used for plasma collection.
• Collect specimens at specific time intervals for tests, such as those assessing therapeutic drug levels.
• Conduct standards tests, such as blood alcohol, blood culture, oral glucose tolerance, glucose screening, blood smears, urinalysis, and urine and blood drug tests.
• Enter patient, specimen, insurance, or billing information into computer.
• Process blood or other fluid samples for further analysis by other medical professionals.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED
• Certified Medical Assistant (MA) or Phlebotomist certification
• CPR or BLS Certification
• Proficient in the use of a computer and other office equipment (fax, calculator, copier etc.)
• Proficient in reading and documentation of medical records
• Strong verbal and writing skills
• Good people skills
• Knowledge of Compliance and Privacy Laws