Sherita Plowden
Chicago
Summary
Dynamic phlebotomist with extensive experience at Advocate South Suburban Hospital, recognized for enhancing patient satisfaction through compassionate care and effective communication. Proficient in venipuncture and specimen handling, I successfully implemented a tracking system that improved turnaround times for lab results, fostering collaboration within healthcare teams.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Phlebotomist
Advocate South Suburban Hospital
08.2020 - Current
- Collected blood samples using venipuncture and capillary techniques, ensuring patient comfort and safety.
- Maintained accurate patient records and sample labeling to ensure compliance with hospital protocols.
- Assisted in training new phlebotomists on best practices and hospital procedures to enhance team competency.
- Conducted quality control checks on blood collection equipment, improving operational efficiency and accuracy.
- Collaborated with healthcare teams to streamline patient flow during busy periods, reducing wait times significantly.
- Implemented new tracking system for sample processing, enhancing turnaround times for laboratory results.
- Mentored junior staff in advanced phlebotomy techniques, fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the team.
- Led initiatives to improve patient satisfaction scores related to blood draw experiences through enhanced communication strategies.
- Enhanced patient experience through compassionate care and communication during blood draw procedures.
- Labeled transfer tubes and followed exact directions for handling and storing specimens for transport.
- Maintained a high level of accuracy in labeling and tracking specimens, ensuring proper testing and timely results.
- Centrifuged blood samples as outlined in clinical protocols.
- Completed proper sanitation and cleaning of equipment and work areas between patients.
- Excelled in high-pressure situations, maintaining composure and professionalism during peak hours and emergency scenarios.
- Reduced contamination risks by strictly adhering to infection control protocols and maintaining a clean work environment.
- Tracked collected specimens by initialing, dating, and noting times of collection.
- Stocked phlebotomy cart or carrier with appropriate supplies.
- Demonstrated adaptability by effectively performing blood draws on diverse patient populations, including pediatric, geriatric, and challenging cases.
- Established and maintained positive working relationships with patients, staff and clinical personnel to build trust and camaraderie.
- Improved patient comfort by efficiently drawing blood samples using various techniques such as venipuncture and capillary puncture.
- Assembled tourniquets, needles, and blood collection devices to prepare work trays.
- Packaged and shipped specimens to central lab daily.
- Used personal protective equipment correctly to protect coworkers and patients.
- Increased patient satisfaction rates through consistent delivery of professional phlebotomy services tailored to individual needs.
- Collaborated with medical professionals to ensure accurate test orders and appropriate sample collection methods were used.
- Promoted a positive atmosphere within the phlebotomy department through active participation in team meetings and effective communication with colleagues.
- Organized daily work based on collection priority.
- Addressed questions and concerns to educate patients on collection process and procedures.
- Ensured uninterrupted service by properly maintaining phlebotomy equipment, including centrifuges, needles, and tourniquets.
- Actively engaged with patients to educate them on proper post-draw care, reducing potential complications and ensuring their comfort throughout the process.
- Contributed to a reduction in wait times by quickly assessing patient needs, prioritizing cases based on urgency, and efficiently completing blood draw procedures.
- Participated in continuing education programs to stay up to date on new technologies and procedures.
- Participated in cross-training initiatives, bolstering the overall skill set of the team and promoting a collaborative work environment.
- Assisted in streamlining the specimen processing workflow for increased efficiency and reduced wait times for patients.
- Maintained high standards of cleanliness and sterilization of phlebotomy equipment, ensuring patient safety.
- Assisted in development of phlebotomy training manual, standardizing procedures and improving training efficiency.
- Provided clear post-draw instructions to patients, enhancing their understanding and compliance with care instructions.
- Improved patient comfort and trust with compassionate communication and professional bedside manner.
Cashier
Walmart
01.2022 - 03.2023
- Processed customer transactions accurately and efficiently using point-of-sale systems.
- Provided exceptional customer service by assisting with product inquiries and resolving issues.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of checkout area to enhance shopping experience.
- Collaborated with team members to optimize workflow during peak hours, ensuring swift service.
- Trained new cashiers on policies, procedures, and best practices for customer interactions.
- Monitored inventory levels at registers to prevent stock shortages and ensure availability of items.
- Implemented promotional displays at checkout to increase sales and enhance customer engagement.
- Managed cash handling procedures, ensuring accuracy in balancing registers at end of shifts.
- Greeted customers entering store and responded promptly to customer needs.
- Welcomed customers and helped determine their needs.
- Worked flexible schedule and extra shifts to meet business needs.
- Operated cash register for cash, check, and credit card transactions with excellent accuracy levels.
- Built relationships with customers to encourage repeat business.
- Maintained a balanced cash drawer, ensuring accurate accounting at the end of each shift.
- Helped customers complete purchases, locate items, and join reward programs.
- Restocked and organized merchandise in front lanes.
- Assisted customers with returns, refunds and resolving transaction issues.
- Counted money in cash drawers at beginning and end of shifts to maintain accuracy.
- Stocked, tagged and displayed merchandise as required.
- Assisted customers with inquiries and provided exceptional service, resulting in positive feedback from shoppers.
- Resolved customer complaints professionally, leading to improved customer relations and loyalty.
- Handled multiple payment methods securely, minimizing discrepancies and potential losses.
- Answered questions about store policies and addressed customer concerns.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing efficient and accurate cash transactions.
- Contributed to store success by maintaining high standards of cleanliness throughout the facility.
- Addressed customer needs and made product recommendations to increase sales.
- Mentored new employees on cashier duties and best practices, improving overall staff performance.
- Adapted quickly to new technologies implemented at POS systems, ensuring seamless transition periods for both staff and customers.
- Collaborated with team members to achieve sales targets and maintain a clean, well-stocked store environment.
- Streamlined checkout process for increased efficiency and reduced waiting times.
- Provided backup support for other departments when needed, showcasing versatility within the retail environment.
- Ensured compliance with company policies and procedures while processing transactions efficiently.
- Exceeded productivity goals through consistent attention to detail and organization during busy shifts.
- Promoted store promotions and incentive programs to increase overall sales revenue.
- Managed inventory levels effectively, reducing stock shortages and minimizing wastage.
Phlebotomist
Ingalls Hospital
03.2009 - 04.2015
- Supported quality assurance efforts by diligently documenting all relevant information during the collection process, ensuring accurate test results for patients and providers alike.
- Provided support to laboratory staff, facilitating prompt analysis of collected samples for expedited results delivery.
- Contributed to the development of phlebotomy training materials, enhancing the skillset of new employees and improving overall team performance.
- Enhanced team collaboration by participating in regular meetings to discuss improvements in phlebotomy practices.
- Contributed to maintenance of patient records, ensuring accurate and up-to-date information was available for healthcare providers.
- Monitored patients for adverse reactions post-venipuncture, ready to provide immediate care if needed.
- Collaborated with healthcare teams to prioritize urgent blood draws, ensuring timely analysis for critical care decisions.
- Increased patient satisfaction by providing gentle care and empathetic support during blood collection procedures.
- Supported laboratory technicians by preparing and organizing samples for analysis, facilitating smoother workflow.
- Participated in continuous education programs to stay updated on latest phlebotomy techniques and safety standards.
- Enhanced patient experience by performing blood draws quickly and efficiently.
- Adapted to diverse patient needs by employing variety of blood collection techniques.
- Streamlined inventory management process for phlebotomy supplies, preventing shortages and overstock situations.
- Identified veins suitable for venipuncture with precision, minimizing discomfort for patients.
- Conducted blood drives in collaboration with local organizations, increasing community engagement and blood donations.
- Ensured proper identification and documentation of samples, significantly reducing instances of mislabeling.
- Collected, labeled, and processed blood samples for variety of tests, ensuring accuracy and timely delivery to laboratory.
- Trained new phlebotomists in proper blood collection techniques and safety protocols, elevating overall quality of care.
- Reduced patient wait times by implementing effective appointment scheduling system.
- Collected blood samples in accordance with laboratory protocols and regulations.
- Collected blood samples using vacutainer tubes, tourniquets, syringes, butterfly needles, and straight needles.
- Adhered to HIPAA standards and maintained patient confidentiality in all interactions.
- Verified patients' identification for proper sample collection.
- Drew blood from veins by vacuum tube, syringe, or butterfly venipuncture methods.
- Performed venipunctures, finger sticks and heel sticks for both adult and pediatric patients.
- Verified proper storage and transportation of specimens to laboratories.
- Protected patients by following infection control, sharps disposal, and biohazardous waste disposal procedures.
- Spoke with patient to gather information for lab records, reduce fear, or anxiety and optimize cooperation.
- Followed established safety protocols and standards to minimize risk of infection and injury.
- Assisted in training and onboarding new phlebotomists.
- Reviewed and processed requisitions for laboratory tests.
- Monitored supply levels and placed orders for laboratory supplies.
- Validated blood and specimen collection orders, alerting nurses, or physicians of discrepancies between order and nursing station logs.
- Provided guidance and support to laboratory personnel.
- Performed laboratory tests to assist physicians in diagnosis.
- Developed and implemented strategies to improve phlebotomy processes.
- Participated in quality assurance and competency assessment initiatives.
- Maintained accurate patient records and sample labeling to ensure compliance with hospital protocols.
- Conducted quality control checks on blood collection equipment, improving operational efficiency and accuracy.
- Collected blood samples using venipuncture and capillary techniques, ensuring patient comfort and safety.
- Handled insurance verification tasks using [Software] and [Software] to validate patient insurance information.
- Led initiatives to improve patient satisfaction scores related to blood draw experiences through enhanced communication strategies.
- Centrifuged blood samples as outlined in clinical protocols.
- Completed proper sanitation and cleaning of equipment and work areas between patients.
- Excelled in high-pressure situations, maintaining composure and professionalism during peak hours and emergency scenarios.
- Reduced contamination risks by strictly adhering to infection control protocols and maintaining a clean work environment.
- Stocked phlebotomy cart or carrier with appropriate supplies.
- Demonstrated adaptability by effectively performing blood draws on diverse patient populations, including pediatric, geriatric, and challenging cases.
- Tracked collected specimens by initialing, dating, and noting times of collection.
- Established and maintained positive working relationships with patients, staff and clinical personnel to build trust and camaraderie.
- Improved patient comfort by efficiently drawing blood samples using various techniques such as venipuncture and capillary puncture.
- Assembled tourniquets, needles, and blood collection devices to prepare work trays.
- Packaged and shipped specimens to central lab daily.
- Used personal protective equipment correctly to protect coworkers and patients.
- Increased patient satisfaction rates through consistent delivery of professional phlebotomy services tailored to individual needs.
- Collaborated with medical professionals to ensure accurate test orders and appropriate sample collection methods were used.
Phlebotomy Team Lead
Oak Street Health
01.2013 - 02.2015
- Led phlebotomy team in daily operations, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and best practices.
- Trained and mentored new staff on blood collection techniques and patient interaction skills.
- Implemented process improvements that enhanced workflow efficiency and reduced patient wait times.
- Developed training materials for ongoing education on phlebotomy standards and procedures.
- Collaborated with healthcare providers to optimize patient care through effective blood sample management.
- Monitored quality control measures to ensure accurate specimen handling and processing.
- Conducted regular performance evaluations, providing constructive feedback to team members for professional growth.
- Streamlined inventory management systems, reducing supply costs while maintaining necessary stock levels.
- Improved patient satisfaction by consistently providing efficient and accurate blood draws.
- Enhanced team morale with effective communication and proactive problem-solving strategies.
- Facilitated cross-training initiatives to enhance overall team skills and versatility in various aspects of phlebotomy responsibilities.
- Streamlined the phlebotomy process for better time management and increased daily test completion rates.
- Maintained compliance with safety protocols, minimizing workplace accidents and needlestick injuries.
- Coordinated inventory management for necessary supplies, ensuring smooth daily operation without any shortages or delays.
- Created a supportive atmosphere within the team by recognizing individual achievements and celebrating successes together as a group.
- Fostered collaboration between phlebotomists and other healthcare professionals by improving communication channels.
- Spearheaded process improvements that led to reduced patient discomfort during blood draws.
- Developed training materials to ensure consistent skill development among team members.
- Conducted regular performance evaluations for team members, providing constructive feedback for continuous improvement.
- Established strong relationships with patients through compassionate care and excellent bedside manner.
- Increased patient confidence by maintaining thorough knowledge of the latest industry standards in phlebotomy techniques.
- Assisted new hires in adapting quickly to their roles through comprehensive orientation programs.
- Implemented quality control measures to ensure accurate results and reduce costly errors in testing procedures.
- Collaborated with laboratory staff to maintain proper specimen handling, storage, and transport procedures, resulting in fewer rejected samples.
- Ensured proper clinical documentation by meticulously recording all relevant information for each patient encounter.
- Managed conflicts within the team effectively, promoting a positive work environment conducive to productivity and growth.
- Labeled transfer tubes and followed exact directions for handling and storing specimens for transport.
- Organized daily work based on collection priority.
- Addressed questions and concerns to educate patients on collection process and procedures.
- Participated in continuing education programs to stay up to date on new technologies and procedures.
- Collected blood samples in accordance with laboratory protocols and regulations.
- Collected blood samples using vacutainer tubes, tourniquets, syringes, butterfly needles, and straight needles.
- Adhered to HIPAA standards and maintained patient confidentiality in all interactions.
- Verified patients' identification for proper sample collection.
- Drew blood from veins by vacuum tube, syringe, or butterfly venipuncture methods.
- Performed venipunctures, finger sticks and heel sticks for both adult and pediatric patients.
- Verified proper storage and transportation of specimens to laboratories.
- Protected patients by following infection control, sharps disposal, and biohazardous waste disposal procedures.
- Followed established safety protocols and standards to minimize risk of infection and injury.
- Assisted in training and onboarding new phlebotomists.
- Spoke with patient to gather information for lab records, reduce fear, or anxiety and optimize cooperation.
- Reviewed and processed requisitions for laboratory tests.
- Monitored supply levels and placed orders for laboratory supplies.
- Validated blood and specimen collection orders, alerting nurses, or physicians of discrepancies between order and nursing station logs.
- Provided guidance and support to laboratory personnel.
- Performed laboratory tests to assist physicians in diagnosis.
- Developed and implemented strategies to improve phlebotomy processes.
- Participated in quality assurance and competency assessment initiatives.
- Handled insurance verification tasks using [Software] and [Software] to validate patient insurance information.
- Centrifuged blood samples as outlined in clinical protocols.
- Completed proper sanitation and cleaning of equipment and work areas between patients.
- Stocked phlebotomy cart or carrier with appropriate supplies.
- Tracked collected specimens by initialing, dating, and noting times of collection.
- Established and maintained positive working relationships with patients, staff and clinical personnel to build trust and camaraderie.
Education
Certificate - Phlebotomy
South Suburban College of Cook County
South Holland, IL05-2012
High School Diploma -
Thornton Township Highschool
Harvey, IL05-2007
Skills
- Venipuncture
- Order of draw
- Patient care
- Specimen handling
- Sample and specimen collection
- Butterfly needle technique
- HIPAA compliance
- Patient confidentiality
- Venipuncture expertise
- Blood collection techniques
- Specimen labeling procedures
- HIPAA
- Patient support
- Blood culture collection
- Capillary puncture
- Data entry
- Specimen preparation
- Infection control
- Quality control
- Paperwork processing
- Pediatric phlebotomy
- Recording data
- Patient preparation
- Quality control guidelines
- Sample storage
- Geriatric phlebotomy
- Skin puncture
- Adaptable approach
- Medical records management
- Hemoglobin testing
- Quality assurance
- Medical records maintenance
- Medical testing
- Diagnostic testing
- Personal protective equipment usage
- Health and safety
- Medical terminology
- Technical troubleshooting
- Communication
- Venipuncture and capillary puncture
- Proper labeling
- Sanitation and sterilization
- Multi-sample collection
- Sample labeling
- Medical records handling
- On-site testing
- Blood collection
- Laboratory procedures understanding
- Specimen collection and storage
- EMR recordkeeping
- Time management
- Multitasking Abilities
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Attention to detail
- Customer service
- Organizational skills
- Specimen collection
- Butterfly venipuncture
- Excellent communication
- Finger stick method
- Sample processing
- Problem-solving
- Decision-making
- Task prioritization
- Active listening
- Goal minded
- Blood culturing
- Staff phlebotomy training
- Patient monitoring
- Relationship building
- Written communication
- Appointment scheduling
Certification
- PT - Phlebotomy Technician
Languages
English
Full Professional
Timeline
Cashier
Walmart
01.2022 - 03.2023
Phlebotomist
Advocate South Suburban Hospital
08.2020 - Current
Phlebotomy Team Lead
Oak Street Health
01.2013 - 02.2015
Phlebotomist
Ingalls Hospital
03.2009 - 04.2015
Certificate - Phlebotomy
South Suburban College of Cook County
High School Diploma -
Thornton Township Highschool