Phlebotomist - Laboratory

About the role

Perform venipunctures and skin punctures competently and expediently from patients of all ages. Enter or retrieve test orders in the laboratory information system. Instruct patients on how to properly collect urine and other specimens. Process specimens for testing in-house and for reference lab testing. Additional responsibilities include phone calls, result queries, printing/faxing, and assisting with other laboratory-related duties as assigned.

Responsibilities

• Phlebotomy
  • Identify test requirements and use the laboratory information system for test ordering.
  • Verify information and tests ordered against requisitions; clarify questions with provider offices or nursing departments.
  • Understand and apply the standing order process.
  • Adjust approach to patients and families based on age group.
  • Draw blood competently and expediently with minimal patient discomfort.
  • Maintain knowledge of specimen requirements, correct order of draw, and special handling.
  • Obtain blood samples from patients of all ages (outpatient or inpatient).
  • Support and reassure patients during procedures.
  • Follow lab procedures for patient identification and accurate sample labeling.
  • Use verbal communication and mobile barcode devices for order retrieval and label printing at the bedside.
  • Prioritize STAT orders, scheduled orders, and outpatients.
  • Process specimens accurately and expediently.
  • Assist in training new phlebotomists/aides as assigned.
• Lab Aide
  • Assist Medical Technologists as necessary.
  • Print patient demographic sheets for reference labs when required.
  • Process specimens for reference labs, including understanding tube types and labeling requirements.
  • Complete paperwork for each reference lab.
  • Determine specimen requirements for tests sent to reference labs.
  • Bag and store specimens at appropriate temperatures.
  • Prepare specimens for courier pickup at scheduled times.
  • Maintain training for IATA specimen packaging and shipping.
• Clerical / Administrative
  • Complete and process a variety of forms, including obtaining pre-authorizations and patient signatures.
  • Answer phone calls professionally and politely, including placing calls on hold and transferring them as needed.
  • Know when to answer questions and when to refer callers to a technologist or supervisor.
  • Use the laboratory information system for result queries and report printing.
  • Use the hospital information system to fax results.
  • Ensure blood drawing stations are clean and well-stocked.
  • Apply venipuncture charges for applicable patient services.
  • Review requisitions for order entry accuracy following established protocols.
• Safety, Quality Control & Compliance
  • Adhere to current documentation standards and policies.
  • Release results only to authorized individuals.
  • Perform patient care in an environment that optimizes safety and reduces the likelihood of errors.
  • Follow standard precautions at all times.
  • Discard sharps into rigid sharps containers.
  • Use personal protective equipment appropriately.

Requirements

• High School graduate or equivalent.
• 12-18 months of medical/technical experience desired.
• Phlebotomy or Medical Assistant certificate preferred (ASCP preferred).
• BLS Certification (obtained within 3 months of hire).
• Prior phlebotomy experience or completion of an approved phlebotomy program.
• Ability to work independently and adhere to deadlines.
• Strong computer skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proven experience working with the public.
• Must be honest, dependable, able to multi-task, and detail-oriented.

Benefits

Offering a $2500 sign-on bonus.