Phlebotomist , Evenings

Community Health Systems; Vicksburg (MS); On-site; USD 30,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Community Health Systems is seeking a Phlebotomist for Merit Health River Region. The role supports laboratory testing through proper blood collection and patient identification, with an evening full-time schedule 1:00 PM - 9:00 PM. You will interact with patients and staff to ensure accuracy, safety, and timely specimen handling.

The position requires 0-2 years of phlebotomy experience and a strong focus on infection control, patient communication, and adherence to regulatory standards.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of safety guidelines, sanitation, and infection control protocols.
• Ability to perform blood collection techniques across all age groups (neonates to geriatrics).
• Understanding of patient identification, specimen handling, and lab testing requirements.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with patients, staff, and physicians.
• Ability to multitask, stay calm in stressful situations, and adapt to a dynamic environment.
• Understanding of order-of-draw requirements for lab testing.
• Demonstrates high attention to detail and accuracy in specimen collection and documentation.

Responsibilities

• Performs venipuncture and capillary blood collection per policies and procedures.
• Ensures positive patient identification and bedside labeling of specimens.
• Prepares, packages, and transports specimens maintaining sample integrity.
• Explains procedures to patients to ensure a positive experience.
• Cleans and maintains phlebotomy equipment and workspace per safety standards.
• Documents patient and specimen information in the lab system.

Skills

Safety protocols

Blood collection

Patient identification

Communication skills

Multitasking

Order of draw

Attention to detail

Job description

Role: Phlebotomist

Location: Merit Health River Region

Schedule: Full-Time Evenings 1:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Job Summary

The Phlebotomist is responsible for the proper collection of blood specimens to support accurate laboratory testing for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. This role ensures positive patient identification, timely specimen collection, and adherence to safety and regulatory standards. The Phlebotomist provides exceptional patient care by maintaining professionalism and demonstrating effective communication during interactions with patients, staff, and visitors.

Essential Functions

• Performs venipuncture and capillary blood collection (finger and heel sticks) in accordance with laboratory policies and procedures to ensure accurate and timely specimen collection.
• Ensures positive patient identification by using two patient identifiers and labeling specimens at the patient’s bedside to prevent errors.
• Prepares, packages, and transports specimens to the laboratory while maintaining sample integrity and adhering to safety protocols.
• Explains procedures to patients, providing reassurance and addressing concerns to ensure a positive patient experience.
• Cleans, sterilizes, and maintains phlebotomy equipment and workspace in compliance with safety and infection control standards.
• Accurately documents patient and specimen information in the laboratory system, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Collects timed specimens as ordered, prioritizing and efficiently completing phlebotomy tasks to meet clinical needs.
• Identifies and resolves specimen issues, including addressing rejections and recollecting samples when necessary.
• Collaborates with healthcare team members to clarify orders, resolve collection challenges, and communicate specimen status.
• Adheres to all laboratory and hospital safety requirements and follows Laboratory procedures to ensure compliance with accreditation and regulatory standards.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Maintains regular and reliable attendance.
• Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

• 0-2 years of phlebotomy experience required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of safety guidelines, sanitation, and infection control protocols.
• Ability to perform blood collection techniques successfully across all age groups (neonates to geriatrics).
• Understanding of standards for patient identification, specimen handling, and lab testing requirements.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to interact professionally with patients, staff, and physicians.
• Ability to multitask, remain calm in stressful situations, and adapt to a dynamic environment.
• Proficiency in distinguishing sample types and understanding order-of-draw requirements for lab testing.
• Demonstrates a high level of attention to detail and accuracy in specimen collection and documentation.