Phlebotomy is the medical field concerned with taking blood samples from patients. Blood samples are used for diagnostic tests, but can also be used for research. In most instances, samples are taken by inserting a needle attached to a tube or syringe into a vein, usually inside the elbow. Alternative sites include the hand, wrist, or heel. This technique is known as venipuncture. Phlebotomy also includes taking blood for donations and transfusions. Trained phlebotomy professionals are needed in all kinds of medical settings, which means that training in phlebotomy has the potential to be a great way to enter the medical field or help you advance your career if you’re already working in healthcare. Let’s take a look at what’s involved.
Phlebotomy Job Duties and Skills
As a phlebotomy technician, you’ll be responsible for collecting blood samples from patients. It’s important to carefully and accurately record the samples. You should also ensure you use the correct sampling tubes for the particular test before sending them to a pathology laboratory for testing.
A key skill is finding the best veins for taking blood. As part of the process, you apply a tourniquet to restrict blood flow so the vein you use is slightly engorged. You must disinfect the area before inserting the needle. You will need to learn how to insert the needle painlessly to cause as little discomfort as possible. Furthermore, you must have a calm, professional approach that soothes anxious patients.
Before taking blood, you must check the patient’s vital signs. This includes their blood pressure and pulse. Also, you must obtain the patients’ consent. If you have any concerns about the patient’s safety, you should not draw blood but refer the patient to a doctor.
Other phlebotomy technician duties include sanitizing equipment and making certain blood samples are correctly stored and transported safely. You will also be required to collect other samples, such as capillary finger pricks and urine samples.
How Do You Become a Phlebotomy Technician?
To qualify for a place in a phlebotomy school, you need a high school diploma or a GED equivalent. You’ll be required to complete an accredited phlebotomy training course, such as the 6-week Phlebotomy Technician Certificate Program course offered by Healthcare Career College in South Los Angeles. As part of the course, you will receive practical experience in taking blood samples. Depending on where you work, you may be required to pass the Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) examination.
Phlebotomy Jobs
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there’s a steady and increasing demand for phlebotomists, especially those who are certified. There are many possible avenues for you as a phlebotomy technician, including full-time and part-time positions. These include:
- Hospital phlebotomist. Drawing blood from patients and preparing samples for testing.
- Health clinics. Taking blood samples for diagnostic purposes in primary care and specialist clinics.
- Blood banks. Checking the iron content of blood donors’ blood before collecting blood and plasma donations.
- Clinical laboratories. Processing and analyzing blood samples.
- Mobile phlebotomy. Collecting blood samples from patients in their homes and workplaces.
Enroll Today for the HCC Phlebotomy Program
Working as a phlebotomy technician is a rewarding and fulfilling career. It can also be the first step toward a career as a medical lab technician or in full-time nursing. Make an appointment now to attend an information session at HCC, or apply online today!
Key Takeaways
What does a phlebotomy technician do?
A phlebotomy technician collects blood samples from patients for testing, carefully records and labels samples, checks vital signs, and ensures equipment and samples are properly sanitized, stored, and transported.
What skills are important for phlebotomy technicians?
They must be skilled at finding veins and drawing blood with minimal discomfort, follow strict sanitation procedures, and communicate calmly with patients to help reduce their anxiety.
How can you become a phlebotomy technician?
You typically need a high school diploma or GED and must complete an accredited phlebotomy training program, which includes hands-on practice and may require passing a certification exam.