Phlebotomist

The Phlebotomist is responsible for providing comprehensive specimen collection services for both inpatient and outpatient populations at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center. The role requires proficiency in routine and complex venipuncture procedures, specimen processing, patient identification, laboratory support functions, and customer service.

The successful candidate will perform blood collection procedures on a diverse patient population, including geriatric, oncology, spinal cord injury, and other patients with difficult venous access. Phlebotomists must work independently while maintaining the highest standards of patient safety, confidentiality, professionalism, and compliance with VA, HIPAA, OSHA, and Joint Commission standards.

Key Responsibilities

Phlebotomy & Specimen Collection

• Perform venipuncture and capillary blood collection procedures on inpatient and outpatient populations.
• Collect blood specimens, blood cultures, urine specimens, and other laboratory samples.
• Draw blood from patients with difficult venous access, including geriatric, oncology, and spinal cord injury patients.
• Perform 40–80 patient blood draws per day while maintaining quality and patient safety standards.
• Handle approximately 20% difficult-stick procedures.
• Ensure proper specimen labeling in the presence of the patient.
• Transport specimens according to laboratory protocols.
• Utilize pneumatic tube systems and specimen transport procedures.
• Ensure adequate specimen volume and integrity for ordered testing.

Patient Identification & Safety

• Verify patient identity using two approved patient identifiers before specimen collection.
• Follow Joint Commission, VA, and laboratory specimen collection standards.
• Monitor patients for adverse reactions during and after specimen collection.
• Recognize emergency situations and initiate appropriate response actions.
• Report patient safety incidents according to facility protocols.

Laboratory Support Functions

• Perform specimen accessioning and processing.
• Operate laboratory information systems and computerized ordering systems.
• Enter and verify laboratory orders.
• Perform specimen centrifugation and serum separation.
• Document specimen collection activities accurately.
• Maintain complete and accurate patient records.

Communication & Customer Service

• Provide exceptional customer service to veterans, families, physicians, nurses, and healthcare staff.
• Answer laboratory-related telephone inquiries.
• Communicate test information and specimen requirements to authorized personnel.
• Participate in team meetings and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Maintain professional communication and interpersonal relationships.

Compliance & Documentation

• Maintain HIPAA compliance and patient confidentiality.
• Adhere to VA privacy and information security requirements.
• Complete all required documentation accurately and timely.
• Follow all laboratory policies, procedures, and regulatory standards.
• Maintain awareness of infection control and workplace safety protocols.

Required Qualifications

Education

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Completion of an accredited Phlebotomy Training Program preferred.

Experience

• Minimum two (2) years of recent phlebotomy experience.
• Experience must have occurred within the last three (3) years.
• Experience in hospital, laboratory, or acute care settings preferred.
• Experience performing difficult venipuncture procedures required.

Certifications

• Current Phlebotomy Certification required.
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification required.

Skills & Competencies

• Advanced venipuncture techniques.
• Specimen collection and processing.
• Patient identification procedures.
• Laboratory information systems proficiency.
• Medical terminology knowledge.
• Strong customer service skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication.
• Ability to work independently.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.

At Encode, we believe that our employees are our greatest asset, and we are committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, retirement plans, and generous paid time off. Our flexible work arrangements and emphasis on work-life balance ensure that our employees can achieve their professional goals while maintaining a healthy personal life. Additionally, we provide opportunities for continuous learning and career advancement, including professional development programs and access to cutting-edge technologies.

As a cleared facility, we have a particular need for individuals with active Secret or Top Secret clearances. Your expertise and security clearance would be invaluable in supporting our mission-critical projects and ensuring the highest standards of security and compliance.

We would love to discuss how your experience and skills align with our needs and explore potential opportunities with Encode. If you are interested in learning more, please reply to this email with your updated resume and a convenient time for a brief conversation.

Thank you for considering this opportunity. We look forward to the possibility of working together and contributing to your professional journey.