Phlebotomist

Palmetto Primary Care Physicians is seeking a skilled and compassionate Phlebotomist to join our team!
To learn more about PPCP, visit www.PalmettoPrimaryCare.com

• Offer 401K with generous company match
• Medical, Dental, Vision Benefits
• Short Term and Long Term Disability Offered

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Verify patient identity using two approved identifiers prior to specimen collection.
• Perform venipuncture and capillary (fingerstick) blood draws on patients of varying ages, using proper technique and equipment.
• Label, package, and prepare specimens for laboratory testing or transport in accordance with facility and regulatory guidelines.
• Explain collection procedures to patients in a clear, reassuring manner to minimize anxiety and ensure cooperation.
• Follow standard precautions and infection control procedures, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Accurately document collection details in the electronic health record (EHR) or laboratory information system (LIS).
• Monitor patients for adverse reactions during and after collection (e.g., fainting, excessive bleeding) and respond appropriately.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the phlebotomy/collection area, including restocking supplies.
• Properly dispose of biohazardous materials and sharps in accordance with OSHA and facility policy.
• Coordinate with front-office and clinical staff to manage patient flow and minimize wait times.
• Adhere to all HIPAA privacy and confidentiality requirements regarding patient information.
• Perform quality control checks on equipment and supplies as required.

Non-Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist front-office staff with check-in/check-out during periods of low collection volume.
• Assist with inventory management and ordering of phlebotomy supplies.
• Participate in training or mentoring of new phlebotomy staff or students.
• Support other clerical or clinical support tasks as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge

• Working knowledge of human anatomy and physiology related to venous and capillary blood collection.
• Understanding of specimen collection, handling, and labeling requirements.
• Familiarity with infection control, OSHA bloodborne pathogen standards, and universal precautions.
• Basic knowledge of medical terminology.
• Understanding of HIPAA regulations and patient confidentiality requirements.

Skills

• Proficient in venipuncture and capillary collection techniques across diverse patient populations, including pediatric, geriatric, and difficult-draw patients.
• Strong hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.
• Accurate data entry and documentation skills.
• Effective verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Time management skills to maintain patient flow in a fast-paced environment.

Abilities

• Ability to remain calm and professional under pressure, including with anxious or difficult patients.
• Ability to follow detailed protocols and procedures with a high degree of accuracy.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a healthcare team.
• Ability to maintain composure and provide appropriate care in emergency situations (e.g., patient fainting).

Education/Certification

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Completion of an accredited phlebotomy training program required.
• Current phlebotomy certification (e.g., ASCP, NHA, AMT) preferred.
• Current CPR/BLS certification required.
• Minimum of 1 year of phlebotomy experience preferred; experience in an outpatient or clinic setting a plus.

Mental Requirements

• Ability to concentrate and maintain attention to detail for extended periods.
• Ability to manage multiple patients and tasks simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Sound judgment and decision-making, particularly in identifying and responding to adverse patient reactions.
• Emotional resilience and composure when working with anxious, pediatric, or difficult patients.
• Ability to receive and apply feedback and adhere to changing protocols or procedures.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and/or sit for extended periods (up to full shift).
• Frequent use of hands and fingers for venipuncture, specimen handling, and data entry.
• Visual acuity sufficient to identify veins, read labels, and verify patient information accurately.
• Ability to lift and/or carry up to 20–25 lbs (e.g., supply boxes, specimen coolers).
• Occasional bending, reaching, and twisting to access supplies or assist patients.
• Ability to work in a clinical environment with exposure to blood, bodily fluids, and biohazardous materials, using appropriate PPE.
• Manual dexterity and steady hand control for precise needle insertion and specimen handling.

Work Environment

• Outpatient medical office/clinical setting with regular patient contact.
• Exposure to blood, bodily fluids, and biohazardous materials; adherence to OSHA bloodborne pathogen standards is required.
• Fast-paced environment with variable patient volume and scheduling demands.
• Use of standard clinical equipment including needles, lancets, tourniquets, and specimen processing supplies.
• Work is performed indoors under standard lighting and climate-controlled conditions.
• May require occasional flexibility in scheduling, including early morning, evening, or weekend hours depending on office needs.