Phlebotomist

• Undertake venepuncture to obtain blood samples from patients in accordance with practice protocols and established procedures.
• Provide a safe, professional and compassionate phlebotomy service to patients of all ages and backgrounds, ensuring dignity, privacy and comfort at all times.
• Prepare, handle, store and transport blood samples in accordance with laboratory requirements and practice procedures.
• Maintain accurate and contemporaneous clinical records, documenting procedures and any relevant information in the patient's clinical record.
• Maintain high standards of infection prevention and control, including effective hand hygiene, safe use of personal protective equipment and appropriate cleaning of clinical areas.
• Maintain strict patient confidentiality and handle sensitive information in accordance with GDPR, the Data Protection Act and practice policies.
• Work collaboratively with the wider multidisciplinary team to support the smooth and efficient running of the practice.
• Adhere to all relevant practice policies, standard operating procedures, clinical governance requirements and health and safety guidance.
• Maintain professional competence through ongoing training, mandatory updates and continuing professional development.
• Report incidents, errors, near misses and concerns in accordance with practice procedures, contributing to patient safety and service improvement.

• Undertake venepuncture competently and safely in accordance with practice protocols and training.
• Obtain blood samples from patients as requested by authorised clinicians.
• Confirm patient identity using the appropriate identifiers before undertaking procedures.
• Explain the procedure to patients, obtain appropriate consent and provide reassurance where necessary.
• Maintain patient dignity, privacy and confidentiality throughout the consultation.
• Recognise patients who become unwell or experience an adverse reaction and take appropriate action, seeking clinical assistance when required.
• Recognise the limitations of personal competence and escalate clinical concerns promptly.
• Ensure samples are labelled correctly at the point of collection and matched to the appropriate laboratory request.
• Ensure specimens are handled, stored, packaged and dispatched in accordance with laboratory requirements and practice procedures.
• Record the procedure and any relevant information accurately in the patient's clinical record.

• Maintain effective hand hygiene and use personal protective equipment appropriately.
• Dispose of sharps and clinical waste safely in accordance with current guidance.
• Clean and prepare clinical rooms and equipment before and after use.
• Report any infection control concerns, equipment faults or incidents to the appropriate person.

• Check that equipment and consumables are available and suitable for use.
• Monitor stock levels and report shortages to the appropriate member of staff.
• Ensure equipment is maintained and used in accordance with manufacturers' instructions and practice procedures.
• Maintain a safe working environment for patients, colleagues and visitors.

• Work effectively as part of the wider multidisciplinary team.
• Support the efficient running of the phlebotomy service and report any issues affecting patient care.
• Respond appropriately to patient queries within the limits of the role and refer clinical questions to an appropriate clinician.
• Contribute to a positive patient experience and maintain professional standards at all times.

• Ensure laboratory request forms and specimen labels are completed correctly.
• Follow procedures for the safe handling and transportation of patient information and specimens.
• Report specimen errors, rejected samples, incidents and near misses in accordance with practice procedures.
• Maintain patient confidentiality and comply with data protection requirements.

• Undertake mandatory training and maintain competence in phlebotomy and related clinical procedures.
• Participate in supervision, appraisal and ongoing professional development as appropriate.
• Report concerns relating to patient safety, safeguarding, clinical practice or the working environment.
• Work within the limits of training, competence and delegated responsibilities.
• Undertake other reasonable duties appropriate to the role, as requested by the Nurse Manager or Practice Manager.

Essential

• Recognised phlebotomy qualification or equivalent evidence of phlebotomy training and competence.
• Evidence of practical experience and competency in venepuncture.
• Up-to-date training in infection prevention and control, or willingness to undertake required training.
• Basic knowledge of health and safety, safe handling of sharps and clinical waste disposal.
• Willingness to undertake mandatory training and continuing professional development relevant to the role.