Under general supervision of the Nurse Director and Resource Nurse for Vascular Access Nursing, the individual collects specimens for laboratory analysis including blood. Explains safety protocols and procedures to patients, is customer focused and provides certain clerical functions.

• Collect blood using good judgment, reasonable and prudent care and according to policies and procedures, including but not limited to the following:

• Review prior to collection a standard checklist which includes checking for potential adverse reactions such as history of fainting, and latex allergy.
• Is customer focused and puts the needs of patients first
• Maintains patient privacy, and follows all HIPAA guidelines
• With training, or if qualified by competency review, provide EKG, clerical and specimen transport functions.
• With training, or if qualified by competency review, provide pediatric and ancillary services to phlebotomy operations serviced by Laboratory Support Services.
• Provide reception and associated clerical functions at Specimen Collection center front desk including Fax receipt and send, filing of orders, answering telephones and placing requisitions in queue according to policies and procedures.
• Maintain adequate supply inventory, and complete monthly inventory checks as assigned.
• Satisfy annual required continuing education for phlebotomists and mandatory life safety, HIPAA and other required training.
• Work in collaboration with and practice good team working and communication skills with co-workers.
• Adhere to unit polices for dress code, and other areas of personal presentation such as, but not limited to fingernail policy and personal hygiene, and interpersonal communications.
• Adhere to unit polices for attendance, time off, scheduling, breaks, lunch etc.

• High school diploma or equivalent, plus...
• Graduate of training program that includes phlebotomy skills with demonstrated and acceptable competency in phlebotomy
• 1-year work experience and national certification in phlebotomy preferred.

• Familiarity with metric system units
• Knowledge of basic anatomy and physiology
• Knowledge of aseptic technique
• Knowledge of cardiovascular system
• Knowledge of standard precautions
• Must be able to read/write English and communicate clearly with staff and patients.
• Effectively performs venipuncture as well as skin puncture (where applicable and if trained) on adults, elders, adolescents and school aged children, and if trained and assigned, pediatric venipuncture , finger and heel sticks on infants or toddlers or preschool age children.
• Attentive to standard safety and infection control procedures including standard precautions
• Effective interpersonal and communication skills
• Attentive to detail
• Ability to provide compassionate care to patients
• Ability to recognize emergency situations and respond appropriately
• Must be able to lift ten pounds
• Capable of physical exertion including walking, standing, sitting and bending for entire shift assignment
• Possesses manual dexterity and visual acuity
• Able to work under stress of time constraints and heavy workload demands requiring accuracy
• Basic computer and keyboard skills. Familiarity with MS Windows and LIS preferred.
• Neat and orderly work habits.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• May be exposed to disease bearing specimens, hazardous chemicals or fumes, other hazards normally associated with a clinical laboratory setting including patient instability and /or unpredictability. Work environment may be noisy or crowded.
• May be required to travel between buildings and outside. Due to travel outdoors, may have limited exposure to car fumes, noise, dust, chemicals and inclement weather.