Phlebotomist

Role & responsibilities

Patient Handling & Identification

• Verify patient identity using appropriate identifiers.
• Explain the blood collection procedure and obtain cooperation/consent as required.
• Maintain patient comfort, privacy, and dignity.
• Identify patients requiring special attention, such as children, elderly patients, or difficult veins.

2. Blood Sample Collection

• Perform venepuncture and capillary blood collection as per SOP.
• Select the appropriate collection tubes, needles, and other equipment.
• Follow the correct order of draw.
• Ensure proper sample volume and avoid homolysis, clotting, or contamination.
• Handle special samples according to test requirements.

3. Sample Labelling & Documentation

• Label samples immediately after collection with accurate patient details.
• Verify test details and sample requirements before dispatch.
• Record collection time and other required information in the system/register.
• Maintain proper documentation and traceability of samples.

4. Sample Handling & Transportation

• Ensure samples are stored at the required temperature and conditions.
• Pack and hand over samples according to laboratory guidelines.
• Coordinate with the laboratory/sample transportation team for timely dispatch.
• Monitor and report rejected, leaked, insufficient, or unsuitable samples.

5. Infection Control & Safety

• Follow hand hygiene and infection-control protocols.
• Use appropriate PPE during sample collection.
• Dispose of needles and biomedical waste in designated containers.
• Never recap used needles unless specifically permitted by the applicable SOP.
• Report needle-stick injuries, spills, or other safety incidents immediately.

6. Equipment & Workstation Management

• Maintain cleanliness and hygiene of the phlebotomy area.
• Check availability of needles, tubes, syringes, gloves, swabs, and other consumables.
• Ensure proper functioning of required equipment.
• Report shortages, damaged equipment, or expired consumables.

7. Home Collection Responsibilities

• Visit patients' homes as per assigned schedule.
• Verify patient details and prescribed tests before collection.
• Carry required collection kits, PPE, and consumables.
• Maintain sample integrity during transportation.
• Update collection status in the designated system/app.

8. Patient Service

• Communicate professionally and courteously with patients and attendants.
• Handle patient queries related to the sample collection process.
• Manage difficult or anxious patients calmly.
• Escalate complaints or collection-related issues to the concerned supervisor.