Phlebotomist

Responsible to:
Nurse Manager

Responsible for:
No direct line management responsibilities.

To work as part of the multidisciplinary practice team to provide a safe, effective and patient-centred phlebotomy service to the practice population. The postholder will undertake blood collection and associated clinical duties in accordance with their training, professional competence, practice policies and procedures, and relevant clinical guidelines. The postholder will contribute to the delivery of high-quality patient care by supporting the GPs, nursing team and wider practice staff.

Phlebotomy and Patient Care Welcome patients and explain the blood collection procedure, ensuring they are as comfortable and relaxed as possible. Confirm the patients identity using the appropriate identification checks and verify the blood test request against the patient and clinical record, confirming details directly with the patient wherever possible. Obtain the patients agreement before proceeding with blood collection and respond appropriately to any concerns or difficulties.

Collect blood samples safely and effectively, in accordance with training, competence, practice protocols and relevant guidelines. Ensure all samples are correctly labelled at the point of collection, using the required patient identification details. Ensure samples are placed in the appropriate containers and stored, handled and transported in accordance with laboratory requirements and practice procedures. Ensure samples are dispatched to the appropriate laboratory within the required timescales.

Accurately record blood collection and any relevant information in the patients clinical record using the practice clinical system. Ensure that blood collection equipment is suitable for use and within its expiry date. Recognise and report any difficulties, abnormalities or concerns arising during blood collection to the appropriate senior member of staff. Inform the GP or nursing team of any significant patient concerns identified during an appointment.

Maintain up-to-date knowledge of relevant phlebotomy guidance, procedures and best practice.

Ensure clinical rooms and work areas are clean, tidy, safe and appropriately prepared for patient appointments. Check that clinical equipment and supplies are available, suitable for use and maintained in accordance with practice procedures. Report faulty equipment, stock shortages, environmental concerns or other hazards to the appropriate person. Take appropriate action within the limits of the role to address identified risks and prevent harm to patients, colleagues and visitors.

Ensure clinical waste and sharps are disposed of safely and in accordance with current guidance and practice procedures.

Comply with the practices infection prevention and control policies and procedures at all times. Apply appropriate infection prevention measures, including:
Effective hand hygiene. Appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Safe collection, handling and storage of laboratory specimens. Correct segregation and disposal of clinical and general waste. Safe handling and disposal of sharps. Appropriate cleaning and decontamination of clinical equipment and work surfaces. Safe management of blood and body fluid spillages. Prompt reporting of sharps injuries and other potential exposures, following the appropriate incident management procedure.

Use the practice clinical system, Systm One, to record relevant clinical information accurately and in a timely manner. Maintain complete, accurate records in accordance with…