Phlebotomist (Multiple Opportunities)

UPMC•Erie, PA

About The Position

The Phlebotomist is responsible and accountable for accurately performing phlebotomy and collecting specimens from inpatients and/or outpatients. Collected samples are used for laboratory testing essential to diagnosing and treating patients. The role may also include computer, courier, and clerical functions essential to laboratory operations. The Phlebotomist works in conjunction with and under the supervision of Medical Technologists. This is a patient-facing position in a fast-paced environment, with opportunities on first, second, and third shifts. Specimen collection may take place at off-site locations. Previous medical or customer service experience is preferred; six or more months of related experience is preferred but not required.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Minimum six months of experience performing phlebotomy is preferred, but not required.
Previous medical or customer service experience is preferred.

Nice To Haves

Certification from an accredited Phlebotomy or Medical Assistant program.
Phlebotomy Technician (PBT(ASCP)) certification or equivalent.
Knowledge of medical terminology.
Experience with a laboratory information system.

Responsibilities

Interact courteously and professionally with laboratory customers and respond to telephone inquiries in a timely manner.
Follow proper patient identification procedures and collect appropriate blood specimens by venipuncture, heelstick, and fingerstick.
Instruct patients on procedures for collecting laboratory specimens when required, and collect non-blood samples as needed.
Demonstrate dependability, reliability, and independent judgment in recognizing priorities and accommodating department needs while accepting appropriate authority.
Collect specimens at off-site locations as needed and transport specimens from on- and off-site collection areas to the appropriate laboratory section while following established safety procedures.
Follow laboratory and hospital policies and procedures, including requirements for methods, quality control, quality assurance, safety, hand hygiene, isolation precautions, compliance, and personnel matters.
Perform related clerical duties and use computer functions to enter demographic information, enter test orders, receive, cancel, charge, and credit tests, and verify patient information and sample identity.
Train and orient new employees, students, and residents as applicable and assigned.
Inform technical staff, supervisory personnel, and/or pathologists about unusual or problematic incidents.
Perform arterial punctures when required, following strict collection and post-collection guidelines.
Monitor and maintain supplies for assigned functions and use materials and reagents cost-effectively.