Overview

Under general supervision, performs phlebotomy procedures at an advanced level, collects blood samples by performing venipuncture, finger or heel sticks on patients, may start IV's, ensures the quality of blood specimens and assumes responsibility for the safety and comfort of patients following established procedures. Serves as a role model for the department of phlebotomy and works closely with the phlebotomy supervisor. Works and retains responsibilities as a phlebotomist/processor.

Key Responsibilities

1. Obtains venous and/or capillary blood specimens according to established procedures.
2. Utilizes a computerized system for logging and tracking specimen collection and patient information.
3. Operates simple medical laboratory equipment, such as a centrifuge and microscope.
4. Effectively communicates with laboratory and medical staff to resolve problems and concerns regarding specimens and to properly identify and label specimens for processing, delivery and storage.
5. Responds to requests for STAT phlebotomy when indicated.
6. Ability to stand for prolonged periods of time and walk periodically in the process of performing phlebotomy work.
7. May receive and process specimens for testing in various laboratory departments according to established procedures.
8. Operates centrifuge and separates specimens according to departmental procedure. Properly stores specimens when necessary.
9. Enters patient demographic data into the laboratory computer system. Accesses appropriate account or opens a new account. Recognizes when there is a need for a new medical record and does not assign duplicates. Orders tests as indicated by the physician on the requisition.
10. Responds to telephone inquiries for test results, specimen status, or other general inquiries.
11. Monitors pending phlebotomy orders and ensures collections are completed.
12. Assists in the training of new personnel by following the training checklists, completing the competency checklist, and ensuring personnel is competent to perform duties before assigning a shift.
13. Competently performs donor blood collections (if applicable at the facility).
14. May assess patients for an appropriate IV site and initiates peripheral intravenous lines using Jelcos, butterflies, needles, etc., as directed through physician orders. Changes IV sites every 48 hours. Rotation on floors every other day to check the site. Keeps log of all patients' IVs so that site cases can be done accurately.
15. May insert heparin locks and other vascular access devices. Draws blood samples from these devices as required.
16. Takes on-call as assigned to provide the coverage when there is a call out by a phlebotomist/processor for a regularly scheduled shift. Assists the phlebotomy supervisor in the scheduling of staff to ensure coverage.
17. Coordinates training of new personnel, reviews completed competency checklists for new personnel and signs them off as competent when appropriate.
18. Ensures all standard operating procedures are up to date and all staff has reviewed them promptly.