Phlebotomist: Responsibilities, Settings, and Salary
Summary
- A phlebotomist is a medical professional trained to collect blood samples from children and adults for testing or donation purposes.
- Their main responsibilities include preparing individuals for blood draws, verifying identities, sanitizing equipment, collecting blood samples, and storing samples for delivery to testing laboratories.
- Phlebotomists can work in various settings such as clinical laboratories, hospitals, doctor's offices, and blood donation centers, and the average Salary in the United States in 2021 was $37,380 per year.
What is a Phlebotomist?
A phlebotomist is a healthcare professional trained to collect blood samples from individuals for testing in a medical laboratory or for donation purposes. They are skilled in performing blood draws on both children and adults using various techniques such as Venipuncture, finger pricks, and heel pricks. Blood tests are essential for screening, diagnosing, and monitoring health conditions.
What Does a Phlebotomist Do?
A phlebotomist's primary role involves collecting blood samples as ordered by Healthcare Providers or for donation purposes. Their responsibilities include preparing individuals for blood draws, verifying identities, ensuring proper labeling, sanitizing equipment, performing blood draws, assisting with adverse reactions, and maintaining blood samples for testing. They also assist physicians and organize blood draw supplies.
What Can I Expect When Getting My Blood Drawn by a Phlebotomist?
When getting your blood drawn by a phlebotomist, you can expect the following steps:
- The phlebotomist will introduce themselves and confirm your identity.
- Gloves will be worn, and a Tourniquet will be applied to your upper arm to slow blood flow.
- The area will be disinfected, a needle will be inserted into a vein, and blood samples will be collected into vials.
- After collection, the needle will be removed, pressure will be applied, and a bandage will be placed on the area.
Where Do Phlebotomists Work?
Phlebotomists can work in various settings, including clinical laboratories, hospitals, community health centers, assisted living facilities, doctor's offices, and blood donation centers. They are usually supervised by clinical laboratory technologists or other medical professionals.
Additional Common Questions
How Does Someone Become a Phlebotomist?
To become a phlebotomist, individuals need certification from a completed phlebotomy program, which can be obtained from technical and vocational schools or community colleges. Specific steps include graduating high school, completing a phlebotomy program, earning a certificate, and passing a certification exam.
How Many Years Does it Take to Become a Phlebotomist?
Accredited phlebotomy programs typically take a year or less to complete, including both classwork and hands-on training.
What is the Average Salary of a Phlebotomist?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average Salary for a phlebotomist in the United States in 2021 was $37,380 per year. Salaries may vary depending on work settings and hours worked per week.
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