Senior Phlebotomist

About the role

The Senior Phlebotomist plays a crucial role in the laboratory department, supporting the health optimization efforts of Optum. This position involves a variety of duties including specimen collection, testing, and patient care.

Responsibilities

• Collect blood specimens from patients using venipuncture and capillary puncture techniques promptly
• Maintain a clean, safe, and efficient work environment
• Process and prepare specimens for testing and transport
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to specimen collection, testing, and equipment
• Give proper patient collection instructions (i.e. urine collection, stool collection, etc.)
• Instruct patients in post-phlebotomy care
• Properly dispose of bio-hazardous and sharps materials
• Obtain specimens for microbiology testing
• Perform electrocardiograms (EKGs) and other miscellaneous services
• Order sufficient supplies to perform the workload and rotate stock and prevent the use of outdated supplies
• Follow the venipuncture and processing standards of work (SOW)
• Perform waived and moderate complexity laboratory testing, including microscopy
• Maintain accurate records of patient information, test results, and laboratory procedures
• Perform quality control and calibration procedures to ensure the accuracy and reliability of test results
• Participate in quality assurance and quality control activities including proficiency testing
• Follow The Optum Clinic lab procedures and guidelines
• Follow the Calling Critical Value policy
• Interact with patients and healthcare providers in a professional and compassionate manner
• Register patients while following the reception standard of work (SOW)
• Problem solve efficiently and promptly
• Locate missing lab orders and specimens
• Communicate effectively via phone

Requirements

• High School Diploma/GED
• Medical Assistant-Phlebotomist (MA-Pbt) certification from the state of Washington
• BLS (AHA) certification or the ability to obtain within the first 30 days of employment
• 1+ years of experience with excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Intermediate level of proficiency with Microsoft Office
• Ability to use muscles to lift, push, pull, or carry heavy objects (occasionally lifting to 50 pounds and carrying up to 24 pounds)
• Ability to abide by the code of conduct per Optum/UHG
• Regular and predictable attendance
• Reliable transportation and travel to other draw stations

Qualifications

• Completion of a Phlebotomy Certificate program through an accredited school
• 2+ years of blood draw experience
• Knowledge of laboratory information systems and electronic medical record
• Documented training program to include all elements of CLIA regulation 42CFR493.1423
• Experience performing EKG's and accurately determining acceptable readings
• Understanding of HIPAA regulations and compliance standards
• Soft skills: independent work, good judgment, accountability, teamwork, multi-tasking, under pressure, communication, and adaptability
• Physical and mental demands: standing, walking, frequent use of hands and fingers, bending, stretching, stooping, twisting, squatting, kneeling, crawling, pushing/pulling, grasping, handling, reaching, lifting, pushing, pulling, running, hearing, seeing, visual acuity, coordination, body mechanics, balance, and stability