How to become a Phlebotomist

How to become a Phlebotomist Looking for a career in Phlebotomy? It’s in your blood… A Phlebotomist takes blood and other specimen samples from patients to send to laboratories for diagnostic testing. They work with adults and children of all ages, and are normally based in hospitals or private laboratories.Their job additionally involves analysing samples by taking note of the cell count and blood type compatibility. The information they collect is then logged into the patient’s records, and reported back to the referring physician.Other duties for a Phlebotomist include:Interacting with patients to explain the processReassuring patients who feel nervous or uncomfortableDrawing blood safely and efficientlyTaking into account the patients’ wellbeing whilst drawing bloodLabelling all samples with the patients’ name and dateTransporting samples to laboratories within specified timescalesAdhering to health and safety regulations to ensure samples aren’t contaminatedIs it right for me?Excellent written a nd spoken communication skills are essential for anyone looking to become a Phlebotomist. It will be your responsibility to comfort distressed patients and show empathy â€" so a calming and reassuring nature is equally vital.You’ll also need to be able to handle the practical nature of the job, and have good hand/eye coordination, as well as a steady hand.If you’re prone to fainting at the sight of blood, this job probably isn’t for you.Other essential skills and attributes for a Phlebotomist include:The ability to work well as part of a teamGood attention to detailAn in-depth knowledge of technical equipmentExcellent listening skillsA careful and methodical approachThe ability to handle confidential data with discretionCareer Progression PhlebotomistUp to £17,000 Phlebotomy Team LeaderUp to £22,000 Specialist Biomedical ScientistUp to £34,000What's it really like? Looking after people has always been my thing, and I wanted to find a job in the healthcare industry that di dn’t require a large amount of studying (I’m more of a practical person). So I turned to Phlebotomy. Surprisingly, dealing with blood and needles isn’t an issue, and to be honest, it’s so much a part of my day-to-day job that I don’t even notice it anymore. Some patients are naturally uneasy at the sight of needles, so it can be a challenge to calm them down, but as long as I’m tactful, and distract their attention accordingly, everyone leaves the hospital with a sigh of relief combined with the words â€" ‘oh, it wasn’t that bad actually’. Get qualifiedThere are no set entry requirements to become a Phlebotomist, although you may need core GCSE subjects such as Maths, English, and Science. Previous experience and qualification in a health and care based course would also be beneficial.