Phlebotomist

Description

Under the supervision of the Laboratory, the Laboratory Phlebotomist performs phlebotomy, appropriate to the position, and in compliance with standards, hospital policies, protocols, and procedures. Responsible for all aspects of the phlebotomy employing safe, accurate and professional sample collection and processing; computer data entry as required; promptly completes all assigned tasks with accuracy and on schedule; collects, reports and documents patient data related to phlebotomy and communicates effectively with the patient’s RN of changes or needs in regards to phlebotomy collections. The employee can expect to care for patients ranging in age from neonate through geriatric. Responsible for instrument maintenance, troubleshooting and resolution of problems; maintains inventory of supplies and restocking supplies on carts. Assists and coordinates with nursing and lab staff as needed and requested, subject to Supervisor approval and notification, during low volume times if no other non-phlebotomist duties have been assigned. Must attend/participate; in mandatory education programs as defined or directed by hospital and departmental policy. Recognizes their role and participates as a member of the interdisciplinary team working towards Jackson Hospital’s mission, vision, Standards of Performance and goal of meeting all customers’ expectations. Performs a variety of routine blood drawing procedures to include venipuncture, utilizing equipment appropriate to individual patient needs. Utilizes standard procedures for the maintenance of positive patient identification and specimen labeling; records appropriate collection information on labels/requisitions; transports specimens according to infection and safety policies. Collects, reports and documents patient data related to phlebotomy accurately in a timely fashion according to hospital policy and promptly informing the patient’s RN of pertinent data. Maintains an organized work environment (which may include files, supplies, equipment, etc) to ensure easy retrievability and physical professional appearance. Maintains optimal inventory supplies (floor cart, individual cart, main supply storage) in an effort to enhance workflow efficiencies. Accurately performs required daily tasks to include, but not limited to: unit rounds and phlebotomist beeper posting, lab and unit cart checks, charting of patient laboratory reports (daily and cumulative); following the established procedure. Reports at change of shift, communicating effectively with staff to resolve or refer, and document problems, prepare problem documentation and report critical issues as they occur. Demonstrates responsibility for own competency, mandatory’s and annual performance evaluation by maintaining all personal data up-to-date. Meets educational requirements for new equipment, materials, procedures and technology. Prepares for the performance evaluation conference by submitting completed skills list and education attendance documents one month prior to due date. Understands and follows health standards related to risk management, safety and infection control. Pays extra attention to patients in high fall risk and isolation categories.

Qualifications

High School graduation diploma or equivalent. Successful completion of an accredited phlebotomy training program; medical/nursing service program which includes phlebotomy will be considered. National Certification as a Phlebotomist preferred but not required. 1-2 years phlebotomy experience in related work environment.