Phlebotomist Job at Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority in Cherokee

Job Title: Phlebotomist
Department: Laboratory
Division: Operations
Salary Level: NE4
Reports to: Laboratory Supervisor/Manager
Last Revised: September 2023

Primary Function
The Phlebotomist is responsible for collecting blood samples from pediatric and adult patients, as well as receiving and organizing blood, other body fluids, and samples from external locations for laboratory processing and testing. The role requires adherence to age-specific competencies to ensure safe and accurate specimen collection and handling.

Responsibilities

Specimen Collection and Processing

• Collect blood samples from pediatric and adult patients, ensuring safe and precise procedures.
• Perform therapeutic phlebotomy as ordered by the physician.
• Receive, label, and organize blood/body fluid samples from Tribal Diabetes, Inpatient, General Clinic, Emergency Room, and external sources for lab testing.
• Distribute specimens to appropriate lab sections and maintain an organized phlebotomy area.

Safety and Compliance

• Maintain a clean and stocked blood collection area and phlebotomy trays.
• Record and maintain daily phlebotomy log-sheets and prepare monthly workload reports.
• Follow infection control policies and universal blood/body fluid precautions.
• Organize work to achieve a high level of productivity while maintaining quality standards.
• Maintain confidentiality of patient information, providing respectful and careful treatment to patients and staff.

Accreditation and Regulatory Compliance

• Collect and prepare data for compliance reports required by CAP, JCAHO, or other agencies.
• Assist in laboratory maintenance of CAP and JCAHO accreditation by meeting regulatory standards.
• Perform age-specific competencies as required by accreditation bodies.

Education and Certification

• Completion of a phlebotomy program with a diploma or certificate.
• Certification in phlebotomy (ASCP or equivalent) required within 12 months of hire.
• High school diploma or equivalent required for students in clinical rotations, with termination contingent upon program completion if hired pre-graduation.

Job Knowledge

• Understanding of laboratory operations, phlebotomy procedures, and techniques for obtaining blood specimens under various conditions.
• Skill in patient identification, specimen labeling, and recording of information.
• Familiarity with regulatory standards for laboratory documentation and record-keeping.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and work effectively with patients, hospital staff, and the general public.

Complexity of Duties
Tasks require coordinating multiple activities, problem-solving, and prioritizing under frequent interruptions. Duties involve critical attention to accuracy, especially in specimen labeling, where errors can severely impact patient outcomes.

Supervision Received
The Phlebotomist operates independently under the guidance of the Laboratory Supervisor/Manager, with expectations to follow established protocols and make informed decisions in routine tasks.

Responsibility for Accuracy
The role demands high accuracy in specimen collection and labeling to prevent misdiagnoses and critical errors in patient treatment. Judgment and initiative are required to ensure work is performed efficiently and correctly.

Contacts with Others
Frequent, direct interaction with patients, nursing, medical staff, and other hospital personnel, requiring courtesy and tact. Duties include patient instruction on specimen collection procedures as well as coordination with other departments.

Confidential Data
Access to confidential medical and personal patient information requires strict adherence to confidentiality policies, with violations subject to disciplinary action.

Mental/Visual/Physical Effort

• High concentration and mental effort required for accurate specimen collection.
• Frequent movement, standing, and walking throughout the lab and hospital.
• Visual acuity and manual dexterity essential for interpreting orders, handling samples, and managing documentation.
• Physical effort required for assisting patients and handling supplies, with occasional lifting over 15 pounds.

Work Environment
The laboratory environment involves exposure to infectious diseases, radiation, chemicals, and other hazards, necessitating strict adherence to safety precautions, including personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves, lab coats, and protective eyewear when necessary. Regular handwashing and participation in the Employee Health Program are required to maintain a safe work environment.

Customer Service
Demonstrates a commitment to superior customer service, aligned with CIHA’s guiding principles and core values. Consistently seeks opportunities to provide exceptional service to all patients and customers.