Phlebotomist 1 - UHealth Tower

University of Miami•Miami, FL

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Phlebotomist 1 draws and collects blood samples, verifies patient records, and prepares specimens for laboratory analysis. The role includes interviewing patients, taking vital signs, testing blood samples, and interacting with patients in consideration of their age-specific, physical, and psychosocial needs. The position also uses laboratory and hospital systems to accession data and perform related system functions. The phlebotomist performs venipuncture and capillary punctures, including for patients of all ages and those in critical care. The role involves accurate patient identification and specimen labeling, timely transport and processing of specimens, and responding to STAT and timed collection requests throughout hospital units. The position also monitors patients for post-draw reactions, follows infection-control and safety procedures, maintains supplies and records, and collaborates with nursing and laboratory staff.

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 and vein access.
Familiarity with 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, including labeling, storage, and transport.
Knowledge of first-aid procedures for complications such as fainting or hematomas.

Responsibilities

Perform patient phlebotomy according to the prescribed technique in the phlebotomy procedure manual.
Process hematology and oncology patients as a priority.
Work on pre-accession specimens and match and organize orders and labels for the day.
Follow the patient identification process, including verifying identity with wristbands, verbal confirmation, and electronic records.
Explain blood draw procedures to patients and support their comfort and cooperation.
Prepare phlebotomy equipment, including needles, tubes, tourniquets, gloves, and disinfectants.
Perform venipuncture and capillary punctures on patients of all ages, including critical-care patients.
Label specimens accurately with patient details, date, and time.
Transport specimens promptly while maintaining temperature and safety protocols, and prepare specimens for testing before delivery to technical staff.
Respond to STAT and timed draw requests across hospital units.
Enter collection data into hospital systems or laboratory software.
Answer questions and resolve problems involving test requisitions, specimen requirements, test additions, priority changes, and patient results.
Monitor patients after 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 according to safety standards.
Maintain adequate inventory, rotate previous stock, and restock phlebotomy carts and supply stations.
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.
Assist with difficult draws, including those involving geriatric or combative patients.
Collaborate with nurses and laboratory staff to prioritize urgent collections and troubleshoot issues.
Document failed attempts or patient refusals in the medical record.
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.
Perform other duties or responsibilities as necessary.