What is a Phlebotomist and How Can You Become One

Phlebotomy is an essential area of medical science that requires scientific knowledge, technical aptitude and good interpersonal skills. It is an entry-level medical professional job whose primary function is to draw blood samples from patients for testing. Phlebotomists work in testing laboratories, private clinics, assisted living facilities, public and private hospitals.

In addition to drawing blood, Phlebotomists also perform the following functions:

• Explaining blood draw procedure to patients

• Comforting anxious patients

• Providing assistance to patients with adverse reactions to blood draws

• Managing paperwork

• Ensuring proper labeling of samples

• Performing transfusions

• Collaborating with other technicians, nurses or doctors.

How long does it take to become a Phlebotomist?

To become a phlebotomist one can go to school, take a training course or a phlebotomy workshop. It can take from somewhere around four months to a year and a half, to become a phlebotomist. About two-thirds of the course takes palace in the training room and one third is spent on practical training through internships. The training usually includes anatomy, physiology, medical terminology and hands-on training.

What skills do you need to become a phlebotomist?

Along with technical knowledge and specific medical skills, phlebotomists need to possess the following skills:

• Attention to detail: Phlebotomists handle very sensitive data related to the diagnoses of patients. This work requires focus and attention to every detail, such that nothing gets missed. A little mismatch could result in a false or wrong diagnosis.

• Organization: Phlebotomists are responsible for organizing and maintaining the equipment around the workplace.

• Hand-eye coordination: Phlebotomists need to have stable hands and good coordination to perform critical tasks as blood draws.

• Soft skills: Phlemotologists interact with patients on a daily basis and need to have empathy and good communication skills to make them feel comfortable before their tests.

Phlebotomy workshops in Mississauga, from the Canadian Ultrasound and Training Institute are a great way to get started with your career in phlebotomy. This is an up and coming field with more institutes and hospitals looking for well-trained professionals.