Phlebotomist/Specimen Processor II at Ellis Medicine – Schenectady, New York

Under the direction and supervision of the Phlebotomy Supervisor, the Phlebotomist performs blood specimen collection, both venous and capillary procedures on inpatients, outpatients, nursing homes, EKGs and will be responsible for identifying, processing, and distributing all laboratory specimens according to laboratory standards. Performs specimen processing, registration and prepares all specimens for transport. Adheres to all relevant health and safety standards while ensuring optimal quality and quantity of specimen samples collected.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENT(S):

All requirements for Phlebotomist/Processor I plus all of the following:

• 2 years in a patient care role with previous phlebotomy/ processing experience
• Cross-trained in all areas of the lab (Fast Track, Triage and Client Service)
• Participates in peer interviewing process
• Previous customer service experience required
• Some knowledge of LIS preferred
• Must have experience with problem solving
• Knowledge of medical terminology required
• Must have no disciplinary infractions in the last 12 months or must have performance evaluation or (90 day probationary) evaluation
• Must attend EKG courses at Ellis to become certified
• Learn and able to draw Nursing Homes
• Must have a valid NY State Driver’s License
• Learn and be able to draw Outpatient
• Well versed in Processing and Registration
• AND successful completion of an acceptable two-part formal structured phlebotomy program within the last five years. This two-part program, to be arranged by the program director, must consist of:
  • 40 clock hours of classroom training, including anatomy and physiology of the circulatory system, specimen collection (including venipuncture and skin punctures), specimen processing and handling, and laboratory operations (e.g. safety, quality control, etc.),
  • 100 clock hours of clinical* training and orientation in an acceptable laboratory with a minimum performance of 100 successful unaided venipunctures.
• ASCP or approved National Phlebotomy Certification

Skills and Abilities:

• Independent, mature, self motivated, reliable and responsible
• Able to serve the needs of patients ages neonatal to geriatric
• Able to deal with all types of customers/patients in a pleasant, professional manner
• Able to handle numerous tasks simultaneously
• Must have excellent organizational skills

Physical Requirements

Should be able to push/pull, lift/move 35 lb., be able to perform moderately difficult manual manipulations such as using a keyboard, writing, and filing for extended periods of time, must be able to perform tasks which require hand-eye coordination such as data entry, typing and using photo copiers. Mobility requirements may include the ability to be stationary at a workstation for a prolonged period of time in addition to being able to squat or be mobile for a reasonable length of time and distance. Communication requirements include the ability to comprehend the spoken English language in addition to being able to communicate and read the English language.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE POSITION:

Safety

• Perform verification of inpatient and outpatient laboratory specimens by using Proper Patient ID
• Adheres to infection control, safety, fire and disaster policies and procedures
• Reports all bruising or injury inflicted during phlebotomy procedures to Nursing
• Adheres to all PPE procedures
• Routinely performs supply checks and rotates inventory to avoid using expired product
• Adheres to infection control, safety, fire and disaster policies and procedures
• Follows all policies for operating company leased vehicles
• Adheres to hand hygiene policies

Operations

• Deliver logged in specimens to various sections of the Laboratory
• Signs for all specimens that are delivered to the Laboratory and follows specific protocol for each specimen type
• Works directly with various departments and Medical Technologists for requested add on testing
• Perform specimen preparation to include centrifuging, decanting and labeling
• Monitors Phlebotomy Task List for Stat and Timed lab draws
• Perform specimen preparation/processing to include batching specimens, centrifuging, splitting and freezing specimens required by test order
• Performs efficiently in the Ellis Laboratory campus Traige and Fast Track Stations
• Provide phlebotomy coverage to the Emergency Department and Emergent Care (ICU – Critical Care)
• Perform verification of inpatient laboratory specimens
• Process Laboratory Reference Miscellaneous testing specimens

Patient Care

• Provides care within his/her job duties and responsibilities
• Performs AIDET(Acknowledge, Introduce, Duration, Explanation and Thank You) with every patient encounter
• Listen and respect the needs of the patient during their blood draw
• Adheres to all Phlebotomy/Venipuncture polices and procedures
• The Phlebotomist will be properly trained to perform Phlebotomy Services within the community to all contracted facilities
• The Phlebotomist will perform blood specimen collection, both venous and capillary procedures on inpatient and outpatients.
• The Phlebotomist will perform a 12-lead EKG with only with certification from the Cardiology Department

Clerical

• Responsible for answering calls from a high volume multi-line phone system
• Performs short registration using Hospital Information Systems(HIS)
• Responsible for completing all data entry requirements accurately - patient registration, entry of test order from requisition or pulling order from database and managing standing orders
• Performs laboratory specimen processing as needed by utilizing Soarian Financials and Cerner LIS by registering patient specimen, placing an order, labeling specimen and delivering to the appropriate department

Customer Service

• Provides customer service to all patients, hospital employees and clients/providers
• Monitor laboratory “call back” list, reporting all STAT results to clients
• Assists Clients with all issues or concerns to improve the service of the laboratory
• Works directly with Distribution to complete supply orders for clients
• Manages all requests for specimen pick up by coordinating with Courier services
• Respects patient privacy, maintains confidentiality and displays non-judgmental behavior
• Maintains open lines of communication professionally and respectfully
• Answers phones with proper phone etiquette and communicate effectively with providers, families and colleagues

Ownership

• Phlebotmist must accept constructive feedback from co-workers and supervisors and responds by working to improve behaviors or performance if appropriate
• The Phlebotomist will act as a mentor and resource for new employees, assisting with transition into new job assignments and the familiarity of established procedures
• Supports and accepts hospital polices, decisions and changes
• Reads all department and organizational communication in a timely manner
• Completes all mandatory hospital and department based competencies within the required time frame

Additional Notes:

• Minimal and local travel will be expected.

Ellis Medicine is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex/gender, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, predisposition or carrier status, military or veteran status, prior arrest, or conviction record, marital or familial status, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender identity, gender expression, reproductive health decisions, or domestic violence victim status.

Salary Range: $18.33-26.58/hour Pay is based on experience, skills, and education. Exempt positions under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) will be paid within the base salary equivalent of the stated hourly rates. The pay range may also vary within the stated range based on location.