Position Objective: The mobile/outreach phlebotomist obtains blood and other specimens for laboratory testing according to established policies and procedures. In doing so, obtains needed supplies, verifies patient information, prepares skin sites, and performs venipunctures according to established aseptic techniques. Performs positive identification of the patient/individual, enters order correctly into the electronic ordering system, labels specimens, and prepares samples for transport to the laboratory.  Has the knowledge and skill to select the proper tubes for the draws and adhere to special instructions such as whether fasting is needed, timed draw, and/or whether centrifugation is needed prior to transport to the laboratory. The mobile/outreach phlebotomist will specifically be responsible for individuals served by EP!C group homes, where phlebotomy will usually occur at the group home locations.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities 

Mission Vision, Values 

1. To support the philosophy through the agency’s mission, vision, values and strategic plan. 

1. Manage all responsibilities based on the agency mission, using individual choice and all appropriate policies, procedures, and regulations. 

1. To conduct oneself in a manner that reflects the highest standards of professional courtesy and ethical practices to people served, staff, guardians, families, and all outside contacts.  

Program /Department Development, and Coordination 

1. Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of procedures for Universal Blood and Body Fluid Precautions and adheres to all safety requirements, including the usage of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves during the specimen collection process. 

1. Understands importance and is aware of the procedure for reporting any and all blood and body fluid exposures. 

1. Maintains work area and equipment in an orderly fashion and assures cleanliness. 

1. Performs proper patient identification (two unique patient identifiers) for all blood draws. Does not proceed if the two identifiers on the order do not match the patient’s (individual’s) unique identifiers. 

1. 1.       Retrieves medical provider order prior to drawing blood and determines tubes needed, order of draw, whether centrifugation is needed, and/or whether any other special collection/storage/transport steps are needed to assure the integrity of the sample.

1. Refers to laboratory catalog, if needed, regarding proper collection technique and specimen stability requirements. Overall, assures that when the samples reach the laboratory that they have been properly collected and specimen stability requirements have been adhered to. 

1. Greets the individual, explains the procedure, and is able handle the patient/individual in a calming manner.

2. Performs the venipuncture/sample collection utilizing standard technique, including but not limited to aseptic technique, selecting vein, drawing samples, mixing tubes (if required), with proper use of tourniquet prior to and during the procedure.

1. 1.       Performs immediate labeling of the samples in the presence of the individual/patient.

1. Uses all safety precautions, including proper needle disposal into a sharps container where needles are immediately disposed of as to avoid inadvertent needle sticks to the phlebotomist. 

1. If required (if specimens will not reach laboratory within specified timeframe), centrifuges SST/PST (serum separator tube or plasma separator tube) prior to transportation to the laboratory. 

1. Appropriately stores samples prior to lab pick-up, including proper usage of the laboratory lockbox. If required by external laboratory, prepares a packing list and reconciles samples against packing list for accuracy. If a sample pick-up is needed outside of usual lab courier route, assures that the specimens reach the lab (which may involve the phlebotomist transporting to the lab directly).  

1. Follows HIPAA policies and protocols at all times. 

1. Completes any applicable continuing education and/or competency as required by the department director/organizational policy. 

1. Collaborates with contracted laboratory to ensure that all supplies are ordered and stocked for phlebotomy draws. 

1. Uses, maintains, and cleans any ancillary equipment, such as the centrifuge and label printer according to the manufacturer’s specifications. 

Marginal Responsibilities 

1. Perform other duties as assigned.  

1. As a mandated reporter ensures all allegations, abuse, and neglect are reported as required.