Virginia James
Butler
Summary
Dynamic lead phlebotomist with over 30 years of experience in blood collection and specimen processing and 6 years of nursing home experience. Proven ability to train staff and collaborate with healthcare teams, ensuring regulatory compliance and optimal patient comfort during procedures.
Overview
2025
2025
years of professional experience
2
2
Certifications
Work History
Phlebotomist/Specimen Processor
Parkview Regional Medical Center/Cancer Center/OP
Fort Wayne
04.2018 - 12.2024
- Collected blood samples from patients using proper techniques and equipment.
- Ensured patient comfort and safety during blood draws and procedures.
- Maintained accurate and confidential patient records in electronic systems.
- Collaborated with healthcare team to schedule and prioritize phlebotomy procedures.
- Educated patients on pre-procedure instructions and post-procedure care.
- Trained new staff on phlebotomy techniques and best practices.
- Maintained a clean, safe, and organized work environment.
- Verified patient information prior to specimen collection.
- Located veins suitable for puncture to draw blood using sterilized needles, vials and other equipment.
- Adhered to HIPAA guidelines regarding patient privacy.
- Performed venipuncture and other blood collection procedures according to established standards.
- Collected specimens from pediatric, adult, geriatric, and special needs patients.
- Provided excellent customer service while interacting with patients.
- Delivered quality patient care by completing accurate and timely collection and transport of clinical specimens according to established procedures.
- Maintained fully-stocked phlebotomy cart, carrier and station.
- Assisted in the training of new phlebotomists.
- Responded quickly and effectively to emergency situations.
- Centrifuged blood specimens in test tubes and capillary tubes to separate cells and sediment from blood serum.
- Processed samples accurately and efficiently.
- Documented patient information into electronic medical records system.
- Prepared and packaged specimens for courier transport.
- Promoted blood specimen integrity for laboratory testing using accurate selection of collection tubes and correct technique.
- Assisted in the preparation of laboratory specimens for analysis and testing.
- Monitored inventory levels of supplies used in phlebotomy services.
- Verified collection orders and communicated discrepancies to nurses.
- Observed patient for unusual reactions or events to take appropriate action under established guidelines.
- Ensured compliance with federal regulations governing laboratory procedures.
- Educated patients on proper blood draw techniques.
Lead Phlebotomist
Lutheran Hospital
Fort Wayne
2001 - 04.2018
- Led phlebotomy team to ensure efficient blood collection processes.
- Trained new staff in proper venipuncture techniques and safety protocols.
- Monitored equipment functionality and reported maintenance needs promptly.
- Monitored the inventory of supplies and equipment used for phlebotomy services.
- Adhered to universal precautions guidelines when handling blood specimens according to OSHA standards.
- Documented daily activities including number of specimens collected, quality assurance measures taken.
- Responded quickly and efficiently to any emergency situations (transplants collections, DOT collections, & ER trauma) related to phlebotomy services or equipment malfunctioning.
- Provided feedback to medical staff regarding abnormal or unexpected lab results.
- Implemented new policies and procedures related to specimen collection as directed by management.
- Performed phlebotomy procedures on patients in a professional, safe and timely manner.
- Maintained a clean work environment by following infection control guidelines at all times.
- Ensured that all laboratory specimens were collected, labeled, logged and stored properly prior to transport.
- Trained new staff on proper collection techniques and safety protocols.
- Provided guidance and support during difficult specimen collections as needed.
- Participated in regular performance reviews with supervisors in order to identify areas of improvement.
- Assessed patient conditions before performing venipuncture to determine appropriateness for specimen collection.
- Coordinated with other departments within the hospital and clinic setting as needed in order to complete tasks related to specimen collection.
- Delivered quality patient care by completing accurate and timely collection and transport of clinical specimens according to established procedures.
- Promoted blood specimen integrity for laboratory testing using accurate selection of collection tubes and correct technique.
- Located veins suitable for puncture to draw blood using sterilized needles, vials and other equipment.
- Maintained fully-stocked phlebotomy cart, carrier and station.
- Centrifuged blood specimens in test tubes and capillary tubes to separate cells and sediment from blood serum.
- Identified patients using proper procedures prior to specimen collection.
- Obtained blood samples for medical testing and transfusion through venipuncture or capillary puncture.
- Verified collection orders and communicated discrepancies to nurses.
- Collected specimens for drug screens, paternity tests and alcohol tests.
- Observed patient for unusual reactions or events to take appropriate action under established guidelines.
- Demonstrated proficiency in using a variety of collection techniques and equipment.
- Managed inventory of phlebotomy supplies and reordered stock as necessary.
- Ensured the cleanliness and sterilization of phlebotomy equipment and work area.
- Participated in continuing education to stay current with phlebotomy practices.
- Maintained patient comfort and safety throughout the phlebotomy process.
- Utilized aseptic techniques to prevent infection and cross-contamination during blood collection.
- Performed venipuncture and capillary draws with precision on patients of varying ages and health statuses.
- In charge of morning draws (over 400 q-a.m.).
- Weekend on charge for staffing shortage or just went into work myself
- Worked 3rd shift and created a.m. draw stacks for in coming staffing.
Phlebotomist
Naples Community Hospital
Naples
1990 - 2001
- Collected blood samples using proper techniques and safety protocols.
- Educated patients on procedures to alleviate concerns and ensure cooperation.
- Collaborated with healthcare teams to facilitate timely specimen processing.
- Ensured compliance with regulatory standards in blood collection procedures.
- Verified patient information prior to specimen collection.
- Located veins suitable for puncture to draw blood using sterilized needles, vials and other equipment.
- Adhered to HIPAA guidelines regarding patient privacy.
- Performed venipuncture and other blood collection procedures according to established standards.
- Collected specimens from pediatric, adult, geriatric, and special needs patients.
- Provided excellent customer service while interacting with patients.
- Delivered quality patient care by completing accurate and timely collection and transport of clinical specimens according to established procedures.
- Maintained fully-stocked phlebotomy cart, carrier and station.
- Responded quickly and effectively to emergency situations.
- Performed venipuncture at several nursing homes.
- Created and ran a home visit department.
- Performed UDS for employers
Retail Sales Associate
Poppo
Naples
- Worked for approximately 2 years.
- Performed sales, a little cashier, stocking floor and above overhang, modeled for local advertising, took care of shipping and receiving for a small golf clothing store.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of the sales floor.
- Assisted customers with product selection and inquiries.
- Restocked merchandise on shelves and displays regularly.
- Greeted each customer and offered assistance in finding requested items, helping boost customer satisfaction and retention.
- Assisted customers with finding the right product for their needs.
- Helped customers by answering questions and locating merchandise.
- Greeted customers upon entering the store and provided assistance.
- Maintained a clean work environment by sweeping, dusting, vacuuming and mopping floors.
CNA
Life Care Center
Maitland
- Provided compassionate care to residents, assisting with daily living activities.
- Monitored vital signs and reported changes to nursing staff promptly.
- Assisted residents with mobility and transportation within the facility.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of patient rooms and common areas.
- Collaborated with team members to ensure quality resident care and support.
- Documented patient information accurately in electronic health records system.
- Educated residents on wellness practices and encouraged participation in activities.
- Provided assistance with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing and grooming.
- Performed vital sign assessments, such as taking blood pressure and temperature.
- Documented patient care services by charting in designated areas.
- Maintained a clean, safe environment for the patient by adhering to infection control policies and procedures.
- Answered patient call lights promptly and responded to requests appropriately.
- Demonstrated excellent customer service skills when interacting with patients, families and guests.
- Assisted patients in ambulation and transfers using proper body mechanics.
- Reported changes in patient conditions to registered nurse or physician.
- Observed patients for any physical or emotional changes, reported findings to medical staff immediately.
- Ensured compliance with HIPAA regulations regarding confidentiality of information.
- Monitored food intake and output as directed by nursing staff.
- Provided emotional support to family members during difficult times.
- Recognized signs, symptoms of abuse, neglect and reported them per policy.
- Assisted with range of motion exercises and other rehabilitative activities per physician orders.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary team members to ensure quality patient care was delivered at all times.
- Educated patients on self-care techniques that would help them maintain their independence.
- Assisted in preparing meals according to prescribed diets while monitoring food consumption levels.
- Administered medications under supervision of a licensed nurse.
- Facilitated communication between patients, family members, and healthcare professionals.
- Assisted patients with shaving, bathing, and oral hygiene to promote healthy habits and overall wellness.
- Worked for 6 years as a NA/CNA
Nursing Assistant
Frankenmuth Convelescent Center
Frankenmuth
- Worked for 6 years as a NA/CNA
- Assisted patients with daily living activities and personal care needs.
- Monitored vital signs and reported changes to nursing staff.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization in patient rooms and common areas.
- Supported rehabilitation exercises under the direction of physical therapists.
- Documented patient information accurately and timely in electronic health records.
- Communicated effectively with patients and families regarding care procedures.
- Collaborated with healthcare team to ensure quality patient care delivery.
- Assisted patients with their activities of daily living, including eating, grooming, toileting, ambulation, and hygiene.
- Assisted nurses and physicians with patient care, including bathing, dressing, transferring to beds and wheelchairs, and taking vital signs.
- Demonstrated respect and regard for dignity of patients, families and fellow employees to promote professional, responsible and courteous environment.
- Conducted regular rounds to check on patients' safety and proactively address issues.
- Assessed vitals and noted medical information to report changes to nursing staff and physicians.
- Observed patients' conditions regularly for any physical or mental changes and reported findings to the appropriate personnel promptly.
- Assisted patients with shaving, bathing, and oral hygiene to promote healthy habits and overall wellness.
- Protected patient, self and others from injury during transfers, lifts and transports by using proper equipment and body mechanics.
- Answered signal lights, bells and requests-for-service to assist patient services fulfillment.
- Implemented fall prevention techniques as specified in plan of care.
- Provided companionship to patients, monitored their emotional well-being, and offered reassurance when needed.
- Completed daily room cleaning and organizing to provide patients with clean environment.
- Promoted patient satisfaction by assisting with bathing, dressing, and exercising.
- Provided assistance to medical staff during tests, treatments and emergency procedures.
- Looked for physical, emotional, and symptomatic changes in patient condition and obtained necessary care for medical concerns.
- Collected specimens for laboratory testing such as urine samples and blood draws.
Restaurant Worker
McDonald's
Frankenmuth
- Prepared food items following company standards and safety guidelines.
- Maintained cleanliness of workstations and dining areas throughout shifts.
- Assisted customers with orders, ensuring a positive dining experience.
- Collaborated with team members to manage busy service periods effectively.
- Stocked supplies and monitored inventory levels for kitchen operations.
- Followed cash handling procedures during customer transactions accurately.
- Kept work area clean and organized throughout shift.
- Greeted customers and provided friendly customer service.
- Assisted in taking orders, preparing food, and delivering food to tables in a timely manner.
- Performed cashier duties such as taking payments, processing credit cards, giving change, and issuing receipts.
- Inspected dining room areas for cleanliness including wiping down tables, chairs, windowsills, counters, shelves.
- Processed takeout orders correctly while providing accurate information about the order status.
- Demonstrated knowledge of menu items by accurately answering questions from customers.
- Prepared beverages such as coffee drinks or smoothies according to recipes specified by the restaurant.
- Provided excellent customer service by anticipating customer needs and responding promptly to requests or complaints.
- Worked here for less than a year.
Education
ASCP Certified Phlebotomy Technician
International Academy Of Phlebotomy Sciences, INC
Sarasota, FL Testing Site07-1991
CNA - CNA
State Of Florida Department OF Education
Florida01-1986
Mio Ausable School
Mio, MI06-1983
Skills
- Blood collection techniques
- Patient record management
- Specimen processing
- Regulatory compliance
- Emergency response
- Team collaboration
- Customer service
- Inventory management
- Staff training
- Effective communication
- Problem resolution
- Time management
- Quality assurance
- Compassionate care
- Patient support
Certification
International Academy Of Phlebotomy Sciences, INC (ASCP), Columbus, OH, July 27, 1991
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Phlebotomist/Specimen Processor
Parkview Regional Medical Center/Cancer Center/OP
04.2018 - 12.2024
Lead Phlebotomist
Lutheran Hospital
2001 - 04.2018
Phlebotomist
Naples Community Hospital
1990 - 2001
Retail Sales Associate
Poppo
CNA
Life Care Center
Nursing Assistant
Frankenmuth Convelescent Center
Restaurant Worker
McDonald's
ASCP Certified Phlebotomy Technician
International Academy Of Phlebotomy Sciences, INC
CNA - CNA
State Of Florida Department OF Education
Mio Ausable School