What is Phlebotomy and How Do I Break Into the Field?
A Phlebotomist is a certified and specially trained professional who collects blood samples in a clinical or laboratory environment. Typically, a phlebotomist works under the supervision of a doctor, registered nurse or medical laboratory scientist.
A phlebotomy technician is trained to not only collect a blood sample, but process and analyze the blood with highly advanced medical equipment. Working with blood requires a high level of skill and attention to detail, as phlebotomists routinely work with specimens that are infected with any number of diseases or blood parasites.
To really answer the question: what is phlebotomy, it’s important to look at the educational requirements needed to become a phlebotomy technician. It’s a great career option for high school graduates or mid career professionals looking for a quick path to a fulfilling job with the opportunity to help other people. Training programs typically last between four and eight months. While the coursework is extensive, it is one of the few medical professions someone can get into with less than one year of schooling.
Most states have specific certification requirements for anyone hoping to become a phlebotomy technician. There’s also a national certification requirement many hospitals and clinics require candidates to have. The average salary for a phlebotomist can range from $20,000 per year to over $40,000, sometimes more. While the starting phlebotomy salary is relatively low, there’s a lot of opportunity in the field and it is expected to grow significantly as the population of seniors increases in the United States. Find out more about phlebotomy training.
The primary duties of a phlebotomist include puncturing a vein to draw blood, a technique also known as venipuncture. The blood is typically analyzed and studied for the purpose of diagnosing a patient. It is also used for blood transfusions in some cases. While nurses and other medical professionals are usually trained in phlebotomy, most hospitals and medical clinics prefer to have full-time phlebotomy technicians on staff.
Phlebotomy technicians should be good with people as many patients, especially kids, don’t like needles. Their role is one of the most important in the medical profession and a patient’s blood sample is usually the first step in diagnosing most ailments. Phlebotomists are fully trained to handle, analyze and transport blood safely.
During a typical day, phlebotomy technicians will meet with patients, draw a blood sample that is usually gathered into a collection tube. The phlebotomist will dress the puncture, label the blood same and take it to a lab to be analyzed. All samples must be handled very carefully to avoid contamination that could lead to having to draw blood again, or worse, a misdiagnosis.
Conclusion: What is phlebotomy?
In short, phlebotomy is a growing career field that can open new doors for anyone looking to get into the medical profession. It involves taking blood samples from patients, so skill and concentration are of utmost importance. Phlebotomists must be good with patients and able to help comfort children and those who are afraid of needles. Work in hospitals will be competitive, but opportunities in smaller clinics and laboratories will be plentiful.
Further Reading:
– How to Become a Phlebotomist
– Should You Pursue Phlebotomy Training Online
– Who Should Obtain Phlebotomy Training Online
– The Road to Online Phlebotomy Training
– Thinking About Phlebotomy Classes? Here’s What You Need to Know
– Find the Right Phlebotomy Training Course
– How Do You Become a Phlebotomy Technician
– How to Pick the Best Phlebotomy Schools
– Will You Pick the Right Phlebotomy Training Course