Job Summary
To collect blood samples safely and efficiently in accordance with good laboratory practice and trust policies

Key Result Areas & Performance
The post holder will be expected to carry out the following duties under the supervision of qualified staff and in accordance with appropriate standard operating procedures (SOPs), policies and Health and safety guidance:

• To collect blood samples from patients as requested by an authorised officer, by means of venepuncture, skin puncture or other approved methods. Requests for blood will be for a large variety of routine and special tests, and must be collected into the appropriate tubes.
• To communicate effectively and sensitively with patients concerning the phlebotomy procedure, with due respect for the patients welfare and dignity.
• To be aware of physical and/or psychological needs of the patient whilst taking blood samples, ensuring that assistance is available as and when necessary.
• To ensure that patient identification details are checked on every patient before the venepuncture procedure is performed.
• To ensure correct labelling of sample tubes with patient details and the correlation of request forms with samples.
• To ensure the safe transit of urgent and routine blood samples from wards and clinic areas to laboratories and to ensure that urgent samples are dealt with in accordance with laboratory policy.
• To take responsibility for all blood samples collected by indicating the date, time and signature of phlebotomist on the request form on completion.
• To establish a relationship of trust and understanding with patients and other groups of staff, ensuring that a good public image and perception of Phlebotomy is maintained at all times.
• To provide an efficient, high-quality service to all patients of the Trust at all times.
• To keep all phlebotomy areas clean and tidy in line with Health and Safety policies.
• To comply with all Trust and Departmental procedures concerning phlebotomy, including infection control.
• To provide accurate written statements in the event of accidents, incidents and/or complaints.
• To prepare samples for transportation from satellite phlebotomy areas to pathology reception.
• To provide a reception service for patients, including where necessary the production of specimen labels

Qualifications & Training
Essential

• Basic Numeracy and literacy
• NVQ level 2 or 6 month practical phlebotomy experience

Experience
Essential

• 6 month Practical Phlebotomy experience

Desirable

• Experience of laboratory computer systems.
• Paediatric phlebotomy.
• Previous hospital experience.

Knowledge
Essential

• Understanding of Health & Safety implications relevant to Phlebotomy.
• Patient & staff confidentiality.

Other Requirements
Essential

• Flexible working as required
• Willing to work at all Trust sites.

Desirable

• Driving licence and car

Disposition
Essential

• Ability to work under pressure & remain calm in a busy environment.
• Ability to deal with patients in a sensitive manner.
• Pleasant & helpful approach.
• Reliable, conscientious and motivated.

Skills/Abilities
Essential

• Able to communicate clearly, both verbally & in writing, to all levels of staff within the organisation.
• Ability to exercise diplomacy.
• Ability to follow standard procedures.

Desirable

• Familiarity with Microsoft Word & Microsoft Outlook.

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.