Phlebotomist
A Phlebotomist in the healthcare field enjoys a rewarding experience day in and day out. Phlebotomists handle everything related to the collection of blood in a clinical setting. Read on to learn more about the responsibilities and prerequisites associated with a career as a phlebotomist with Healthcare Support:
What Does a Phlebotomist Do?
A professional phlebotomist has a variety of different responsibilities to support the diagnostic and research pursuits of the clinic, including:
- Organize appointments and patients for blood draws
- Prepare blood containers with proper labels
- Educate patients about the process of blood transfusion
- Carry out blood draws through the process of venipuncture
- Carry out blood tests by pricking the patient’s finger, or in the case of infants, their heel
- Assist patients who may have negative reactions, whether mental or physical, to having a blood draw or transfusion
- Carry out orders from physicians regarding which tests to prepare blood samples for
- Identify, label, and track samples
- Inventory, clean, and oversee proper disposal of blood draw supplies like sharps and sanitary equipment
Training and Experience
Training, education, and experience needed to become a professional phlebotomist vary based on the employer in question. For more post positions, no clinical experience is necessary.
The education requirements involve a non-degree diploma or certification from an accredited program. Further certification with several healthcare certification groups are also considered under requirements in some cases:
- National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT)
- National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
- American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)
- American Medical Technologists (AMT)
Preferred experience includes one or more years of experience in training or independent experience with the duties expected of a professional phlebotomist.
Career Outlook
The average annual salary for a professional phlebotomist is around $32,000 a year, and the career market for the position is expected to grow in the foreseeable future.
Healthcare Support can offer a competitive pay and benefits package to applicants.