If you’ve ever given blood at a blood bank, or had blood taken in a hospital for tests, chances are you’ve witnessed a phlebotomist at work. Phlebotomists are health care professionals who draw blood from patients. They work in blood banks, labs, hospitals, and other medical facilities.
Taking blood from a patient involves several steps. First, the phlebotomist measures the patient’s vital signs, such as his or her blood pressure and pulse. The next step is to briefly interview the patient to find out about any potential problems. Having blood taken can make some people feel weak, or even cause them to pass out. If this has happened in the past, the phlebotomist may have the patient lie down during the procedure.
In addition, some people feel anxious or nervous when giving blood, and the phlebotomist must ensure they feel comfortable. This may be accomplished by explaining the process to the patient, or simply by making small-talk. Once the patient is prepared, the phlebotomist can draw the blood.
The most common method of drawing blood is venipuncture, which involves collecting blood from a vein. The phlebotomist ties a tourniquet around the patient’s arm, locates an accessible vein, and sterilizes the area. The needle is then inserted into the vein, and blood is drawn into a collection bag or tube. The phlebotomist then withdraws the needle and, if necessary, applies a bandage to the patient’s arm. Sometimes phlebotomists collect blood by pricking the patient’s fingertip instead.
The final step is to process the blood sample. Phlebotomists who work in blood banks are responsible for labelling and storing the blood. In cases where the blood has been collected for medical tests, the blood sample is carefully labelled and sent to the lab, where it is tested by medical lab techs.
Sometimes phlebotomists are involved in the testing process itself. For example, they may assist lab techs by setting up tests for them to run on blood samples, or they may prepare slides of samples. Phlebotomists who work in blood banks may be responsible for testing blood samples to screen potential donors.
Most phlebotomists also perform general office duties. They may greet patients, answer the phone, order supplies, and update patients’ medical records.
NOC Code: 3212