Phlebotomist Job Description

A phlebotomist draws blood to be used for testing and treatment, typically from a patient in a hospital or other medical professional's office.

person in white long sleeve shirt sitting on chair

Phlebotomists draw blood from patients for testing and treatment purposes. They may be employed in hospitals, medical offices, community clinics or doctor's offices. In a hospital setting, they generally work with nurses to collect samples. Phlebotomy technicians also perform tests on the patient's blood, and they must follow strict procedures to ensure accurate results.

Phlebotomists' duties include:

Arranging appointments with patients for blood collection;
Setting up the lab and equipment;
Discussing the procedure with the patient;
Drawing blood samples from a vein using a butterfly needle or syringe.

Phlebotomists also evaluate the blood samples for quality and quantity, and they label and store them. They must follow strict safety procedures to avoid contamination or disease transmission.

Phlebotomists may specialize in areas such as:

Hematology; Nutrition therapy; Urinalysis; Microbiology; Blood banking; Clinical immunology; Hemostasis; and Immunohematology.

Phlebotomists are licensed by the National Center for Competency Testing. They typically attend a one-year training program, and they must be in good physical condition and have a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Phlebotomists usually work full time during regular business hours, but some may work part-time or on-call.

Phlebotomists must work as part of a team and communicate well with others. They must follow strict safety procedures to protect themselves from contamination. Phlebotomy technicians must also keep accurate records of patient information and results, and they often liaise with medical professionals to make sure patients receive quality care.

Phlebotomists typically receive one or two weeks of training on their first day on the job. Phlebotomy technicians must be careful when handling needles and sharp instruments, so they should not be afraid to ask for help if they need it.

Statistics on Phlebotomists

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' 2019 Occupational Outlook Handbook, with a large percentage of the population aging the field is expected to increase by 4% through 2029, which is on par with all other occupations. (allalliedhealthschools.com)
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for phlebotomists in 2019 was $36,480. (allalliedhealthschools.com)
The highest 10% earned more than $49,750, with the highest earners typically working in outpatient care canters, hospitals, and diagnostic medical laboratories. (allalliedhealthschools.com)

Articles On Phlebotomists

Phlebotomist

Few people probably know the term phlebotomist or phlebotomy technician, but it's the health care professional who draws blood... (money.usnews.com)

How to Become a Phlebotomist

Interested in becoming a phlebotomist? Learn about the education and certifications needed to get started in this exciting career! (allalliedhealthschools.com)

Phlebotomy - Wikipedia (en.wikipedia.org)

Phlebotomists (onetonline.org)

Phlebotomists: Occupational Outlook Handbook: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Phlebotomists draw blood for tests, transfusions, research, or blood donations. (bls.gov)

How To Become a Phlebotomist

Learn basic responsibilities of a phlebotomist and the qualifications needed to become one. (indeed.com)

Phlebotomist

Phlebotomists work in clinical laboratories, hospitals, community health centers, nursing homes, doctor's offices and blood donation centers. (explorehealthcareers.org)

Phlebotomists at My Next Move (mynextmove.org)

CareerOneStop - Phlebotomists (careeronestop.org)