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A phlebotomist is a healthcare professional who is trained to draw blood from a patient in a safe and sanitary manner. Phlebotomists may draw blood samples for tests or collect blood donations, depending on where the phlebotomist works. Often, phlebotomists work in a clinic laboratory with other clinical laboratory technologists who screen and test the samples that are collected.
From a patient''s perspective, giving blood can be the most difficult part of an office visit. Children, teens and adults alike can all have phobias when it comes to blood and needles. Handling screaming, crying and fainting patients is part of the job. It takes a skilled phlebotomist to know how to handle each situation as it arises.
The Phlebotomist''s Career
Phlebotomists are also responsible for:
· Explaining the procedure to patients
· Updating patient records
· Preparing stains and reagents
· Cleaning and sterilizing equipment
· Taking a patient’s blood pressure, pulse and respiration rate
· Sending urine and fecal samples for lab testing
It''s important to remember that every time a phlebotomist draws blood or sends out lab samples, they are creating that patient''s blood history. That essential part of the patient''s health profile will be in their record for a lifetime.
Phlebotomist Certification
Certification is optional, but highly recommended, because most employers require it. The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), American Medical Technologists (AMT) and the American Society for Phlebotomy Technicians (ASPT) are organizations that offer national certification and testing, which awards phlebotomists the title Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) or Registered Phlebotomy Technician (RPT). Phlebotomists must recertify each year to maintain their certification. Read more about phlebotomy certification.
Phlebotomy Courses
In addition to having your GED or high school diploma, you''ll need to complete an accredited phlebotomist program, usually a 1-semester to 1-year certificate or diploma. Phlebotomy courses generally include anatomy and physiology of the circulatory system and phlebotomy techniques. You’ll also need plenty of hands-on training in drawing blood through vein punctures and skin punctures. Read more about phlebotomy courses and internships.
Phlebotomist Salary
The American Society of Clinical Pathologist reports that the average annual salary for phlebotomists is $24,350. This translates into a wage of $11.71 per hour, based on a 40-hour work week. Read more about phlebotomy salaries.