What is Phlebotomy?
A phlebotomist is a medical technician who draws blood for analysis. Phlebotomy technicians work directly with patients to obtain the specimens necessary to perform testing for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease. Usually, Phlebotomists use medical devices that read and interpret a blood sample. But, on occasion manual tests are the only available method of sample collection. They must also know how to properly handle specimens and understand the various types of laboratory testing.
The primary function of a Phlebotomy Technician is to obtain patient blood specimens by venipuncture or microtechniques. The Phlebotomy Technician aids in the collection and transportation of other laboratory specimens, and may be involved with patient data entry. A Phlebotomy Technician also draws blood for transfusions, donations and research.
Phlebotomy Technicians must like challenge and responsibility. They must be accurate, work well under pressure and communicate effectively. They must be able to deal with patients and be able to calm patients. Safety is key and all safety precautions must be taken to prevent the transmission of infectious diseases.
Duties differ by doctor office, hospital and laboratory but may include:
- Drawing blood from patients or donors in hospitals, blood banks, clinics, doctor offices, laboratories or similar facility for medical purposes
- Assembling equipment (such as needles, blood collection devices, gauze, tourniquet, cotton, and alcohol)
- Verifying or records identity of patient or donor
- Conversing with patients to allay fear of procedure
- Applying tourniquet to arm, locates vein, swabs area with disinfectant, and inserts needle into vein to draw blood into collection tube. (May also prick finger instead of inserting needle.)
- Labeling and storing blood container for processing
- May conduct interviews, take vital signs and test blood samples to screen donors at a blood bank
- Be able to analyze information and make appropriate recommendations
Learn more about how to get trained in Phlebotomy in Columbus...