Phlebotomist - Laboratory (Full Time) - Uvalde Memorial Hospital : Job Details

DescriptionJOB SUMMARY: The Phlebotomist collects blood, swabs, urine, and other specimens from patients in both hospital and outpatient settings, ensuring accurate labeling, proper handling, and patient comfort. This role supports timely diagnostic testing and works closely with clinical and laboratory staff to maintain quality and safety standards. Reports to Laboratory Director. Non-Exempt position. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:Specimen Collection

• Collect blood, swab, urine, and other specimens from patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
• Ensure accurate patient identification, proper labeling, and secure specimen handling.
• Follow established protocols for specimen collection, storage, and transport.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area in accordance with infection control guidelines.

Specimen Handling & Processing

• Label all specimens at the bedside and verify accuracy against requisitions and patient ID bands.
• Transport specimens promptly to appropriate lab sections; assist with centrifugation, aliquoting, or storage as needed.
• Document all collections accurately in the electronic medical record (EMR).

Safety & Compliance

• Adhere to infection prevention protocols, proper PPE use, and safe handling of biohazardous materials.
• Comply with hospital and laboratory policies regarding specimen rejection, redraws, and critical values.
• Maintain cleanliness of phlebotomy trays, equipment, and work areas.
• Promptly report any safety concerns, incidents, or equipment malfunctions.

Communication & Collaboration

• Communicate clearly and professionally with nurses, lab staff, physicians, and other team members.
• Support lab operations by responding to phone inquiries and providing timely specimen collection updates.
• Deliver courteous, respectful, and compassionate service to patients, families, and visitors.

QUALIFICATIONSEducation: High school diploma or equivalent required. Certification: • Completion of a Phlebotomy program required, including a minimum of 80 hours of training in proper venipuncture and skin puncture techniques, as evidenced by a rotation schedule. • Current BLS certification for healthcare providers required. • Certification in one of the following is highly preferred: • Phlebotomy Technician (AMT, ASPT, or equivalent) • Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT) • Certified Medical Laboratory Assistant (CCMLA) • If not certified at time of hire, one of the above certifications must be obtained within one year of hire date. Experience: 6 months to 1 year of prior hospital-based phlebotomy experience preferred. Skills & Knowledge • Proficient in venipuncture and pediatric collection techniques. • Strong time management and prioritization skills in a hospital environment. • Detail-oriented with accurate data entry skills. • Ability to work independently or as part of a team in a fast-paced, high-acuity setting. FUNCTIONAL DEMANDSFunctional Job Requirements: Job requirements include, but are not limited to: sitting, standing, walking, kneeling, bending, squatting and reaching. Requires good finger dexterity, repetitive motions with hands and fingers. Requires ability to have good vision and hearing. Pushing and pulling equipment may be necessary. Lifting Requirements Job requires medium lifting on an occasional basis. Reasonable Accommodations Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position without compromising the job duties.