Phlebotomy: The Procedure and its Importance
Phlebotomy is the medical procedure of removing blood from a patient's body using a needle. This can be done for laboratory testing or for therapeutic purposes.
The Role of a Phlebotomist
The procedure is performed by a qualified phlebotomist who is licensed to perform this job. It is an essential part of modern medicine and should be handled carefully to avoid injury or infection. A phlebotomist can be found in doctor's offices, hospitals, and nursing homes. They draw blood for diagnostic purposes or to test patients' blood sugar levels or blood type.
Training and Certification
To become a phlebotomist, one must complete a phlebotomy training program at a technical or vocational school or a community college. Most phlebotomy programs last a few months to a year and include both classroom and hands-on training. Those who have earned a degree in nursing, physical therapy, social work, or another health-related field can become phlebotomists by applying to and being accepted into an accredited phlebotomy program. Once certified, phlebotomists are able to find jobs in hospitals and clinics across the country.
Skills and Requirements
Some of the things you need to be a phlebotomist include:
Knowledge and Communication
- Knowledge of various types of blood tests, how diet and medications affect blood samples, and safety precautions. These skills are important for any phlebotomist to have since they often have to explain the procedure to patients and make them feel comfortable.
- Good hand coordination and fine motor skills are also necessary for phlebotomy. These are important because phlebotomists have to be able to insert needles into difficult veins.
- Phlebotomists must be able to use their hands for many different tasks, including putting on gloves, locating and relocating veins, applying tourniquets, and identifying patients. They must also know how to sterilize their instruments and dispose of them safely and properly.
Supplies and Equipment Management
Performing phlebotomy requires an abundance of supplies and equipment. These items must be clean, sterile, and labeled for easy identification before the procedure begins. This ensures that the phlebotomist can perform the procedure without contaminating the patient's skin or clothing.
Interpersonal Skills
In addition to being able to handle the procedure itself, phlebotomists must be a team player and communicate well with their co-workers. They should also have a strong sense of customer service and be able to build trust with their patients. Some of the best phlebotomists know how to put their patients at ease and explain the procedure clearly. This is especially important when phlebotomists work in clinics where patients can be nervous about the procedure.
Expanded Opportunities
Working for an insurance company - Some medical assistants with phlebotomy certification are hired by insurance companies to draw blood samples for pre-coverage exams. The ability to draw blood for these tests is a valuable skill in the field and can be refined through experience.
Educational Requirements
People who want to work as a phlebotomist need to have at least a high school diploma and a phlebotomy certificate. This certificate is awarded by the American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians (ASPT) and the American Medical Technologists (AMT). In addition, phlebotomists need to take continuing education courses to maintain their certification.
