Phlebotomy

Phlebotomists draw and prepare blood for medical testing, transfusions or donation. Phlebotomists are trained to collect blood via venipuncture, finger pricks, or in the case of infants, heel pricks. Phlebotomists typically work in hospitals, clinics, outpatient care facilities, diagnostic laboratories and blood donation centers.

Phlebotomists play a vital role in the administration and management of blood draws for diagnosis, transfusion and research purposes.

On any given day, a phlebotomist may be asked to:

• Prepare patients for blood draws
• Verify patient identities and ensure proper labeling of collection vials
• Explain blood draw or transfusion process to patients
• Guide nervous patients through blood draws
• Conduct blood draws and transfusions
• Assist patients who experience adverse reactions following a blood draw or transfusion
• Follow directions of supervising physicians
• Identify, label and track blood samples
• Gather, inventory, and maintain blood draw instruments and supplies

Above all, Phlebotomists must care for patients and take steps to prevent tainting or degradation of samples, such as Hemolysis, which may impact the accuracy of tests.