A Phlebotomist is a medical professional who is responsible for drawing blood samples from patients for diagnostic testing, blood donations, or research purposes. On a day-to-day basis, a Phlebotomist typically performs the following tasks:
- Greeting and preparing patients: They greet patients, make them feel comfortable, and explain the procedure to be performed.
- Identifying patients and verifying their identity: They check patient details, confirm their identity, and ensure accurate labeling of the blood samples collected.
- Assembling and sterilizing equipment: They prepare and sterilize the necessary equipment, such as needles, tubes, and collection bags.
- Venipuncture: They locate a suitable vein, clean the site with antiseptics, and perform venipuncture to draw blood. They need to be skilled at finding appropriate veins and inserting needles with minimal discomfort to the patient.
- Collecting and labeling blood samples: They carefully collect blood samples into the appropriate tubes, ensuring the proper amount and correct order of draw. They label and record each sample accurately to maintain sample integrity.
- Processing and handling samples: They may process blood specimens, such as centrifuging samples to separate serum or plasma, and preparing them for transportation to the laboratory for analysis.
- Maintaining equipment and work areas: They clean and maintain phlebotomy equipment, dispose of used needles and supplies safely, and ensure the work area is clean, organized, and well-stocked.
- Interacting with patients and coworkers: They provide support, answer patient questions regarding the procedure, and maintain a professional and empathetic approach throughout.
- Following safety and infection control protocols: They strictly adhere to safety standards and infection control guidelines to minimize the risk of transmission of infections, such as wearing gloves, masks, and protective garments, and proper disposal of biohazardous waste.
- Maintaining records and documentation: They accurately document and maintain patient information, procedure details, and test requisitions to ensure proper tracking and follow-up.
Please note that the exact tasks may vary based on the work setting (hospital, clinic, laboratory) and state regulations.