Phlebotomist

At Central Maine Healthcare our team members are committed to providing exceptional care and experiences for our community and for each other every day.

Job Description

Position Summary: The Phlebotomist is responsible for assisting in the procurement and process¬ing of biological specimens from patients for analysis in the Laboratory and to perform supportive tasks in the maintenance of related records and facili¬ties. The phlebotomist works independently, organizing work to meet estab¬lished deadlines and accepts direction from supervisory and technical staff. The position also involves effective communication and interpersonal skills.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Demonstrates Competency in the Following Areas:
1. Properly collects and prepares specimens with efficiency and accuracy for subsequent testing to ensure the accurate and timely reporting of results used in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. The following assignments are monitored by the phlebotomy supervisor, and must have no more than 2 documented major errors per evaluation year.
a. Properly identifies all patients, according to Laboratory protocol, prior to collection of any specimens.
b. Properly labels, according to laboratory protocol, all specimens collected.
c. Performs all phlebotomy procedures (venipuncture, capillary collec¬tion, and assisting nursing service in collection from lines), according to laboratory protocol.
d. May be required to perform sample collection by capillary puncture in the neonatal age group and to document specific competencies in this procedure.
e. Performs successful venipuncture and capillary collections within an acceptable time period. Can organize and prioritize workload and perform tasks without loss of accuracy and composure.
f. Swabs throats for subsequent testing by microbiology.
g. Performs template and duke bleeding times, according to laboratory procedure.
h. Instructs patients in the collection of urine, stool, sputum, and semen specimens according to departmental requirements to ensure accurate reporting of tests.
i. Identifies adverse reactions encountered during specimen collection and handles appropriately.
2. Utilizes functions of the information system including all functions associated with specimen collection.
a. Maintains patient confidentiality as it applies to patient informa¬tion with no willful or careless violations of the confidentiality policies of the institution during the evaluation year.
b. Interprets physician orders and enters their test requests into the computer assuring information is consistently accurate as deter¬mined by supervisory observation.
c. Correctly acknowledges receipt of specimens received in the labora¬tory as determined by supervisory observation.
d. Successfully troubleshoots and maintains the order printer to main¬tain proper operation as determined by supervisory observation.
e. Performs “downtime” procedure with understanding to ensure the timely reporting of laboratory results.
f. Performs registration on outpatients and drop off specimens effi¬ciently.
3. Processes, prepares, and delivers specimens to the appropriate laborato¬ry area. The following assignments are monitored by the clinical laboratory supervisor, and must have no more than two documented major errors per evaluation year.
a. Checks to be sure an appropriately collected and labeled specimen is available for testing.
b. Prioritizes the workflow to ensure timely delivery of specimen to the various sections and timely reporting of results.
c. Operates and maintains centrifuges, using them at the proper speed and temperature.
d. Prepares specimens and reference forms for send out tests with accu-racy.
4. Maintains a clean, well-stocked phlebotomy area, stockroom, and central receiving area as determined by supervisory observation.
a. Maintains the inventory and order supplies as necessary.
b. Stocks phlebotomy trays with sufficient supplies to expedite speci¬men collection.
c. Stocks and organizes the phlebotomy room to present a neat and clean appearance.
5. Presents a positive, friendly and courteous appearance to the customers and visitors. The following responsibilities are monitored by the super¬visor, and must have no more than two major documented complaints per evaluation year.
a. Greets visitors and customers courteously.
b. Answers telephone courteously and in a friendly manner.
c. Obtains telephone orders on patients, accurately records them in the information system
6. Customer Service: Interacts with all individuals in a consistent manner, providing attention, support, and assistance to foster an environment of exceptional personal service.
a. Maintains a pleasant and helpful demeanor, and presents a professional appearance toward all internal and external customers at all times.
b. Consistently initiates interactio