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 depending on assigned work area and work tasks. ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS: Factors affecting environment conditions may vary depending on the assigned work area and tasks. Environmental exposures include, but are not limited to: Blood-borne pathogen exposure Bio-hazardous waste Chemicals/gases/fumes/vapors Communicable diseases Electrical shock, Floor Surfaces, Hot/Cold Temperatures, Indoor/Outdoor conditions, Latex, Lighting, Patient care/handling injuries, Radiation, Shift work, Travel may be required. Use of personal protective equipment, including respirators, environmental conditions may vary depending on assigned work area and work tasks.

Additional Details

Emory is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.

 

Emory Healthcare is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. Please contact Emory Healthcare’s Human Resources at [email protected]. Please note that one week's advance notice is preferred.