An Introduction to Essential Equipment for Phlebotomy Students
Summary
- Phlebotomy students require essential equipment provided by their employers such as needles, syringes, tubes, PPE, and sharps containers.
- Students may also need to bring their own items including scrubs, stethoscopes, watches with a second hand, and close-toed shoes for training and starting their careers.
- Employers or institutions typically provide most of the necessary equipment needed for phlebotomy students, with specific requirements being communicated to students in advance.
An Introduction to Equipment Needed for Phlebotomy
Phlebotomists are responsible for taking blood samples, labeling them, and preparing them for testing. There are seven essential pieces of equipment that every phlebotomy student should be familiar with:
Needles and Lancets
Needles are hollow metal tubes used in blood draws, while lancets are disposable instruments for finger prick Blood Testing. They come in various sizes and are crucial for blood collection.
Syringes
Syringes are used to collect blood from patients and can vary in size. They include measurements on the side and have a plunger for drawing blood or pushing out fluids during injections.
Tubes
Tubes are essential for storing and transporting blood samples. Different colored caps indicate different testing methods, such as serum, plasma, EDTA, Heparin, and Blood Culture testing.
PPE
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is crucial for phlebotomists, with gloves and face masks being the most common items used to protect against potential hazards in the workplace.
Sharps Containers
Sharps containers are used to dispose of contaminated needles, lancets, scalpels, and other sharp instruments. They are marked with biohazard symbols and made of puncture-resistant plastic.
What Phlebotomy Equipment Students Need
While employers or schools typically provide most of the necessary equipment for phlebotomy students, there are a few items that students may need to bring themselves for training and starting their careers:
Scrubs
Scrubs are standard wear in healthcare and are required for phlebotomists. However, students should wait to buy scrubs until knowing any color coding systems that may be in place at their future employer.
Stethoscopes
Students will need a stethoscope to locate veins. A basic beginner's scope is usually sufficient for training, with some institutions providing them to students.
Watch with a Second Hand
A watch with a second hand is essential for accurately timing blood tests. Modern fashion watches may not have this feature, so students should invest in a reliable watch for their training.
Close-Toed Shoes
Phlebotomy environments require closed-toe, comfortable shoes with nonslip soles. While employers may have different footwear rules, open-toe shoes are typically not allowed.
Most essential equipment needed for phlebotomy students is provided, with specific requirements communicated by the institution or employer. At BAMA Institute, equipment is supplied to help students focus on their training and career development.
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