SSMC Phlebotomist

Job Description Summary

Performs phlebotomy functions, electrocardiograms, nasal culture collection, Point of Care Testing (POCT) and non technical duties at the Center for Orthopedics, Spine, and Sports Medicine.

Job Description

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1 - Performs phlebotomy (venipuncture, fingerstick, and heelstick) according to established procedure of South Shore Hospital.

a - Performs venipuncture using correct technique and with minimal discomfort to the patient.

b - Performs fingerstick procedures with correct technique and when unable to obtain specimen by venipuncture.

c - Performs heelstick on babies with correct technique.

2 - Identifies patients and properly labels specimen tubes.

a - Identifies self and then identifies patient by asking patient to recite name and Date of Birth (DOB). Check information against Hospital Medical Record number on patient armband.

b - Labels all specimen tubes following established procedure : Date and time of draw and Phlebotomist initials when not using Bar Code Labels generated by Automated Patient Identification system.

c - When using Automated Patient Identification system, scan the barcode on your employee badge and enter your Meditech password into the handheld.

d - Select patient on handheld then scan patients' armband to bring up that patients' orders. Highlight tests to be drawn, draw patient, select method that you used (venipuncture, heelstick, etc.

hold handheld over label printer to print labels. (Only labels for that patient will print)

e - All label printing and application to tubes is to be done immediately in patient's presence.

f - Call SSH Security for specimen pick up to deliver to Laboratory in an organized and timely manner, within 15 minutes of draw for STATs. Hourly for routines

3 - Determines priority of STAT draws. Insures timely transport of all patient specimens to lab for testing.

a - Prioritizes STAT requests. Draws STATs within 10-15 minutes of request.

b - Ensures that STATs are transported to lab on a priority basis immediately for serious cases : within 15 minutes of draw for STATs. Hourly for routines.

4 - Utilizes computers as appropriate in completing assigned functions.

a - Verifies all information for accuracy.

b - Performs order entry with no errors.

5 - Organizes assigned work and accurately completes work load statistics.

a - Draws all assigned patients by the end of shift.

6 - Helps co-workers when needed and communicates with laboratory departments when needed to ensure an orderly work flow.

a - Assists co-workers with blood-drawing procedures.

b - Informs physician of patients not drawn for any reason at time of attempt.

c - Informs Supervisor of problems in obtaining specimens for any reason.

7 - Under supervision will help in the training of new employees and student interns in the performance of phlebotomy duties.

a - Works with new employees to assist in training of departmental procedures.

b - Acts as a resource to new employees.

8 - Follows all organizational and department or unit policies and procedures.

9 - Readily accepts changes in assignment. Performs work level of equal skill and responsibility as needed. May be required to do work of lesser responsibility when the workload of the department so requires.

10 - Will act as a receptionist, greet patients and answer phones when required.

a - Is courteous, friendly, shows care and concern to patients.

b - Answers phones in a prompt and courteous manner and by stating name and department.

11 - Is responsible for the daily cleaning of equipment and maintaining neatness throughout the department.

a - Keep Phlebotomy supplies neat and check for outdated tubes.

b - Will replenish phlebotomy draw stations upon completion of shift.

c - Will ensure that all safety and waste containers are disposed of properly.

d - Maintain stock at Phlebotomy station & Drawing areas.

e - Maintain cleanliness of Phlebotomy areas, Break room & Storage rooms at all times

f - Cleans work areas at the beginning and end of each shift.

12 - Records daily temperature of Outpatient refrigerator.

a - Notifies Supervisor if temperature falls outside of established limits.

13 - EKG : Performance of Electrocardiograms

a - Enter all patient demographics into EKG cart.

b - Introduce self, explain procedure to patient, check patient ID.

c - Apply 4 limb leads and 6 precordial leads according to standardized placement.

d - Collect 12 seconds of data and insure that tracing is complete and good quality.

e - Print one (1) copy of EKG : allow data to transmit.

f - Deliver one (1) copy to patient's chart (or nurse).

14 - Consistently adheres to the established protocol for patient identification using two patient identifiers when performing EKG function.

15 - Technology Is receptive to technological solutions to work processes and practices.

16 - Safety Awareness Fosters a Culture of Safety through personal ownership and commitment to a safe environment as stated in the Safety Management Program Manual, Infection Control Manual and Phlebotomy Policies & Procedure Manual.

The employee is knowledgeable of who the Hospital Safety Officer is.

a - Consistently adheres to established Laboratory and Hospital policies for Universal Precautions and Safety Procedures.

b - When handling blood / and or body fluids, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be utilized in order to minimize exposure to infectious diseases.

c - Wears gloves, gowns, goggles, or masks as required.

d - Disinfects & cleans work area at the beginning and end of each shift.

e - Knows where to find Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for any item used in job performance.

17 - Performs Nasal Swab collections when ordered

a - Properly collects, labels, and arranges transport for ordered nasal cultures.

18 - Performs Point of Care Testing

a - Collects proper sample for point of care testing

b - Performs Quality Control and corrective measures

c - Perform Calibration procedures, if applicable

d - Follows procedure for equipment function checks

e - Accurately and completely performs testing and documents activities, including where and how to record patient results

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Minimum Education - Preferred

Equivalent of four (4) years of high school education preferred.

Minimum Work Experience

One (1) year of full time experience preferred.

Required Classes / Skills -

BLS - Basic Life Support.