Phlebotomist 1 - UHealth Tower

University of Miami•Miami, FL

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Phlebotomist 1 draws and collects blood samples, verifies patient records, and prepares specimens for laboratory analysis. The role may include conducting patient interviews, taking vital signs, testing blood samples, and interacting with patients in consideration of their age-specific, physical, and psychosocial needs. The position uses laboratory and hospital systems to accession data and perform related system functions. The phlebotomist performs venipuncture and capillary collection across hospital units, including critical care, and responds to STAT and timed collection requests. The role includes preparing, labeling, processing, and transporting specimens; documenting collection information; monitoring patients for reactions; maintaining supplies and records; and following infection-control and safety requirements. The employee collaborates with nurses and laboratory staff and may train new phlebotomists or interns when assigned.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Phlebotomist certification.
Minimum 1 year of relevant experience.
Skill in completing assignments accurately and with attention to detail.
Ability to analyze, organize, and prioritize work under pressure while meeting deadlines.
Ability to process and handle confidential information with discretion.
Ability to work evenings, nights, and weekends as necessary.
Commitment to the University’s core values.
Ability to work independently and/or in a collaborative environment.
Knowledge of anatomy and physiology, including the circulatory system.
Knowledge of medical terminology.
Knowledge of safety protocols and infection control, including PPE use, biohazard waste disposal, and prevention of bloodborne pathogen exposure.
Knowledge of specimen handling and processing requirements.
Knowledge of first-aid procedures for complications such as fainting or hematomas.

Responsibilities

Perform patient phlebotomy according to the phlebotomy procedure manual, including venipuncture and capillary punctures.
Prioritize and process hematology and oncology patients.
Work on pre-accession specimens and match and organize orders and labels for the day.
Verify patient identity using wristbands, verbal confirmation, and electronic records before drawing blood.
Explain blood draw procedures to patients and respond to their questions.
Prepare phlebotomy equipment, including needles, tubes, tourniquets, gloves, and disinfectants.
Label specimens accurately with patient details, date, and time; prepare specimens for testing and transport them promptly to the laboratory while maintaining temperature and safety protocols.
Respond to STAT and timed draw requests across hospital units and travel to patient rooms, ICUs, the ER, and surgical units as needed.
Enter collection data into hospital systems or laboratory software.
Monitor patients after blood draws for reactions such as dizziness or fainting and provide assistance.
Follow infection-control protocols, including hand hygiene and PPE use, and dispose of biohazard materials in compliance with hospital safety standards.
Restock phlebotomy carts and supply stations, maintain adequate inventory, and rotate stock.
Answer questions and resolve issues involving test requisitions, specimen requirements, test additions, priority changes, and patient results.
Maintain required files and log systems accurately and neatly; assist the supervisor with recording statistics and generating reports.
Process cancellations, credits, and additions of test procedures.
Document failed collection attempts and patient refusals in the medical record.
Assist with difficult draws, including those involving geriatric or combative patients.
Collaborate with nurses and laboratory staff to prioritize urgent collections and troubleshoot issues.
Participate in quality-control checks and audits.
Train new phlebotomists or interns when assigned by supervisors.
Adhere to University and unit-level policies and procedures and safeguard University assets.