Phlebotomist / Laboratory Assistant

Colusa Medical Center, provides both inpatient and outpatient services, including emergency services, to the surrounding community bringing exceptional healthcare and service to our community.

POSITION SUMMARY:The primary responsibilities for a Phlebotomist/Lab Assistant involve specimen processing, plating and processing microbiology specimens, operating and maintaining semi-automated test equipment.

He/she will perform a variety of venipuncture techniques involved in the collection of blood specimens from patients for laboratory procedures used in the diagnosis and treatment of disease.POSITION QUALIFICATIONS: Possess and maintain a valid Certified Phlebotomy Technician Certificate issued by the California State Department of Health Services One year of experience performing venipuncture.

Fundamentals of medical laboratory work.

Laboratory equipment and terminology.

Dangers of harmful bacteria and communicable disease.

Basic office procedures and record keeping techniques Intermediate computer skills Strong communication skills, verbally and written.

Laboratory Information System experience a plusDuties/Responsibilities: Draws blood from patients Assembles equipment, such as tourniquet, needles, and disposable containers for needles, blood collection devices, gauze, cotton, and alcohol on work tray, according to requirements for specified tests or procedures.

Verifies or records identity of patient Applies tourniquet to arm, locates accessible vein, swabs puncture area with antiseptic, and inserts needle into vein to draw blood into collection tube or bag.

Obtain adequate blood samples from patients whose veins are difficult to locate, or from patients who may be hostile or unstable.

Discern when to request assistance in drawing blood.

Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships.

Follow oral and written instructions.

Perform routine clerical work.

Keep accurate records.

Prepare standardized reports and forms Perform venipuncture requiring manual dexterity, hand steadiness and balance.

Discern colors to determine order of draw, based on color-coded test tubes.

Learn and apply routine laboratory techniques.

Withdraws needle, applies treatment to puncture site, and labels and stores blood container for subsequent processing.

May prick finger to draw blood.