Phlebotomist

Job Description

POSITION PURPOSE

Working directly with patients, this is a technical position responsible for obtaining and collecting patients’ specimens for processing and testing. This position also involves performance of a wide variety of clerical functions.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND BASIC DUTIES

1. Phlebotomy: Collects and obtains blood specimens from patients and evaluates the samples suitability for testing purposes following established policies/procedures.
   1. Greets each patient and family member(s) in a courteous manner.
   2. Educates patient and family member(s) about the procedure to be performed.
   3. Performs correct patient identification for accurate labeling, collection, and processing of laboratory specimens.
   4. Performs all specimen collection techniques (venipuncture, fingerstick, heelstick, and bleeding time) accurately and according to all SOP’s.
   5. Labels all patient specimens and barcode order requisitions with initials, time drawn, and verifies orders in the computer system upon arrival in the laboratory.
   6. Places Typenex band on all pre-op outpatients who require Blood Bank procedures.
   7. Adheres to all safety protocols including standard precautions, transmission-based precautions, and other infection control policies.
   8. Is able to work efficiently and organize work during heavy workload situations to expedite patient results.
   1. Follows correct procedures for blood culture collection and maintains a <3% contaminated blood culture rate.
   10. Consistently checks the uncollected list and resolves problems associated with order errors.
       
2. Clerical: Supports work of the department by performing clerical duties and other support functions.
   1. Greets all patients and visitors to the Laboratory in a prompt, and professional manner, displaying good customer service skills.
   2. Responds to all inquiries (in person or over the telephone) from patients, visitors, and other hospital or medical personnel, referring non-routine questions to appropriate person or supervisor.
   3. Demonstrates a comprehensive knowledge of both the Hospital and Laboratory information systems and computers.
   4. Provides nursing personnel and physician offices with verbal test results and pathology reports, referring any problems directly to the Supervisor.
   5. Mails and faxes laboratory reports to physician offices as necessary.
   6. Keeps laboratory reports filed and up-to-date by making every effort to complete the filing generated on his/her shift, is able to locate and retrieve information from the files as requested.
   7. Learns and retains information regarding the proper procedures for processing of different insurances for entering outpatient orders.
   8. Communicates daily request for courier service for PKU specimen transport via internet order placement process.
   1. Handles decedent affairs procedures after routine Pathology hours, to include: signing of death certificates by physicians, communication with family members and funeral homes to expedite the process of consent/release of a deceased to a designated funeral home.
   10. Performs weekly quality control of laboratory eyewash stations.
       
3. Development: Maintains current knowledge, certification, and licensure.
   1. Identifies learning needs in self and initiates actions to address these education needs.
   2. Attends hospital sponsored training programs as required by the department.
   3. Completes all mandatory requirements, certifications, and licensure within allotted timeframe for completion (License, PPD, Competencies, Age Specifics, etc.)
      
4. Organizational knowledge: Works effectively within and between departments.
   1. Maintains awareness of changes in procedures or protocols.
   2. Attends department meetings as required or reads/initials meeting minutes within the specified time frame if not in attendance.
   3. Demonstrates a constructive approach during all interactions with staff, supervisors, and managers both inside and outside the unit.
   4. Participates on inter-departmental teams and committees, communicating unit knowledge as appropriate.
   5. Provides department/unit with information and knowledge acquired during participation with interdepartmental teams and committees.
      
5. Department/Unit Specific Functions and Duties
   1. Assists with the on-going inventory control of blood collection supplies in phlebotomy area and rotates stock so that older stock items are used first.
   2. Receive supplies upon arrival and puts them in their respective storage bins.
   3. Cleans and sanitizes Phlebotomy and Reception areas.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Completion of Phlebotomy coursework or certified Phlebotomist
  
  Required Knowledge:
  
• Ability to read, write, speak, and comprehend English.
• Moderate Computer skills to perform Data entry and specimen verification.
• Experience with computerized laboratory information systems
• HIPAA policies on Confidentiality
  
  Experience Required:
• Previous experience in high volume outpatient lab or inpatient setting is preferred.

About MedStar Health
MedStar Health is dedicated to providing the highest quality care for people in Maryland and the Washington, D.C., region, while advancing the practice of medicine through education, innovation and research. Our 30,000 associates and 5,400 affiliated physicians work in a variety of settings across our health system, including 10 hospitals and more than 300 community-based locations, the largest visiting nurse association in the region, and highly respected institutes dedicated to research and innovation. As the medical education and clinical partner of Georgetown University for more than 20 years, MedStar is dedicated not only to teaching the next generation of doctors, but also to the continuing education and professional development of our whole team. MedStar Health offers diverse opportunities for career advancement and personal fulfillment.