Float Phlebotomist

Description

• Collects, labels, and transports patient specimens for testing in a timely manner including routine and advanced venipuncture.
• Upholds the values of the organization including providing and demonstrating exemplary customer service skills throughout the preanalytical and analytical processes.
• Assumes coordinator responsibilities in the absence of supervisory staff assigning work to others.
• May be required to act as department liaison on off shifts/ weekends.
• Primary function may be as a clinic or hospital float personnel who must be knowledgeable of procedures and operations at various locations and show flexibility in the schedules they can work.
• May initiate intervention on unacceptable specimens.
• Adheres to strict protocol regarding patient identification; ensures that each patient is positively identified prior to any specimen collection.
• Collects patient blood samples by performing venipunctures as ordered and within the prescribed time-frame following strict medical protocol.
• Processes all emergency orders (STATS and Timed Studies) within the required time frame.
• Labels each specimen accurately according to established laboratory procedures prior to processing or transport.
• Operates departmental computer programs to activate orders, performs order management through test consolidation or cancellation as authorized, orders laboratory tests, enters comments and performs troubleshooting as necessary.
• Reconciles outstanding test orders that have not been resolved through standard operating procedures.
• Practices universal precautions, barrier protection methods, and infection control. Maintains the stock of commonly used supplies, performing routine inspections of stock levels and reviews expiration dates to ensure adequate availability.
• Performs preventive maintenance on equipment.
• Takes prompt action to resolve any problem with the registration, collection or processing of all specimens including referral specimens using available test catalog or reference materials.
• May perform specimen processing procedures as required.
• Identifies, understands, and documents issues, problems, and opportunities, escalating to supervisor when appropriate.
• Performs clerical duties as needed.
• Attends educational in-services and training classes for various computer systems necessary for patient registration and referral testing.
• Trains and mentors new staff or students in blood collection and/ or specimen processing as directed.
• Assumes lead as trainer, often as Super User or train-the-trainer responsibility.
• Participates in quality improvement activities.
• Represents department by actively participating in interdepartmental teams and supports Emory initiatives.
• Supports a positive team atmosphere by participating in all group meetings and team building.
• Works with supervisor to formulate plan for professional development.
• Performs other duties as required.

Clinic Based:

• May review test requisitions and order tests appropriately following up on all tests with incomplete information or questionable test orders.
• Provides patients and outreach clients instruction as necessary regarding non-blood specimen collections.
• May maintain standing order files and schedule/ arrive lab appointments.
• Prepares and triages specimens to the proper testing facility.
• Obtains waivers for Medicare coverage when applicable.

Hospital Based:

• Maintain and utilize computerized WOW carts insuring adequately charged and operational.
• Adheres to patient isolation procedures as required to ensure a safe work environment.
• Must maintain phone availability for emergent collections.
• Interacts with clinical staff on unit to maintain computerized records, resolve, and troubleshoots outstanding specimen/collections.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• Prefer 2 years relevant phlebotomy experience with Phlebotomy certificate preferred.
• Must be willing to work at various locations and shifts.
• Should have reliable transportation.
• Basic computer skills with ability to type minimum 35 words per minute required for Clinic based positions and preferred for Hospital based; basic medical terminology and customer service skills expected.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS (Medium): 20-50 lbs; 0-33% of the work day (occasionally); 11-25 lbs, 34-66% of the workday (frequently); 01-10 lbs, 67-100% of the workday (constantly); Lifting 50 lbs max; Carrying of objects up to 25 lbs; Occasional to frequent standing & walking, Occasional sitting, Close eye work (computers, typing, reading, writing), Physical demands may vary de