Overview

A phlebotomist is a health care worker whose primary job is to draw blood for diagnostic analysis, transfusions, blood donation, and research. They may also carry out related clerical work and perform routine laboratory tests. In addition to technical skills, the phlebotomist will also have a thorough working knowledge of infection control techniques. As the job requires direct patient contact from the phlebotomist, strong communication skills are also quite important.

Training

A high school diploma or GED is a basic requirement to begin training as a phlebotomist. The typical training period for a phlebotomist is usually through a one semester to one year training program. The phlebotomy student will learn basic anatomy and physiology of the circulatory system, basic phlebotomy techniques, and infection control. Considerable time will be spent mastering the technical aspects of blood drawing in a clinical setting. Post training certification by one or more certifying organizations in phlebotomy is optional but highly desirable. The three organizations which provide phlebotomist certification are: The Associatoin of Phlebotomy Technicians, American Society for Clinical Pathology, and National Phlebotomy Association.

Job Prospects

Phlebotomists are employed by hospitals, outpatient clinics, physician offices, commercial laboratories, public health departments, and blood banks. In healthcare facilities they are usually considered a member of the clinical laboratory staff and work under the direction of the laboratory manager or supervisor. Present and future job prospects for phlebotomists are very good due to the aging population and on-going need for skilled health care workers.

Related Reference Materials

Phlebotomy Handbook: Blood Collection Essentials (7th Edition)
The Complete Textbook of Phlebotomy (Hoeltke))