Staff Nurse - Laboratory

Summary: Mission Cancer & Blood, part of University of Iowa Healthcare is searching for Laboratory Staff Nurse to perform Aseptic Non-Touch Technique (ANTT) when performing lab draws and/or therapeutic phlebotomies through Venous Access Devices (VADs). Performs venipunctures and finger sticks to obtain blood specimens to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. The Laboratory Nurse will also participate in specimen processing and stabilizing specimens per established protocols.

Responsible for conducting moderate complexity and point-of-care testing with accuracy and efficiency, ensuring proper documentation and precise recording of results in accordance with established procedures. All testing is done in accordance with established policies and procedures, following CLIA requirements and regulations. The Laboratory Nurse will address emergency situations and adverse reactions that occur in the lab. They will work closely with other departments and teams to ensure the delivery of quality care.

• Follow stringent procedures and safety protocols to prevent the transmission of infectious diseases.
• Explain phlebotomy related procedures to patients and family members in a professional and courteous manner.
• Perform Aseptic Non-Touch Technique (ANTT) when accessing Venous Access Devices (VADs) for therapeutic phlebotomy or routine phlebotomy procedures.
• Follow standard procedures to verify accurate patient identification.
• Verify, complete, and resolve orders in the EMR (electronic medical record).
• Process lab requisition orders and generate accurate specimen labels in the Laboratory Information System (LIS).
• Obtain blood specimens from patients as ordered using established blood-draw techniques.
• Process and centrifuge specimens to obtain serum/plasma for testing.
• Assist with collection, labeling, and transportation of laboratory specimens as necessary.
• Perform moderate complexity or point of care testing following standard operating policies and procedures.
• Record results in accordance with established policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Perform various quality control and quality assurance procedures to maintain compliance with internal and external regulations.
• Maintain inventory of supplies, materials, and equipment.
• Clean and maintain equipment and instruments according to established procedures and manufacturer guidelines.
• Keep accurate records and documentation to support proficiency testing and ensure compliance with CLIA requirements and regulations.
• Participate in proficiency testing in accordance with established procedures, CLIA requirements and regulations.
• Promptly and effectively respond to emergency situations and adverse reactions, ensuring patient safety and delivering immediate care to mitigate risks and complications.
• Administer IV hydration and emergency medications as ordered.
• Accurately document nursing assessments, patient education, and the administration of fluids and medications within nursing scope of practice. Communicate and coordinate with outside agencies, staff, and patients to ensure continuum of care.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

Education Requirements

• Associate’s Degree in Nursing
• Diploma in Nursing
• Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing
• Professional Masters of Nursing and Healthcare Practice (MNHP)
• MSN/Clinical Nurse Leader
• Master’s Degree in Nursing (MSN, MA)

Experience Required:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required
• Demonstrates excellent interpersonal skills with patients/families, nursing staff, and interdisciplinary team members as demonstrated through written and verbal interactions
• General computer skills are required
• Current license to practice nursing in Iowa is required by date of hire
• Current BCLS
• Knowledge of HIPAA and confidentiality policy and procedures

Desirable Qualifications:

• Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing or Master’s Degree in Nursing is highly desired
• If Baccalaureate degree in Nursing is not yet obtained, active enrollment in a BSN program is desirable
• Knowledge of…