- Phlebotomy is the discipline of drawing blood from a vein in order to collect blood for diagnosis or a blood transfusion.
- Although there are several ways to collect blood, the most common methods of phlebotomy are with a needle and a vacuum tube or with a needle and syringe. The vacuum tube system allows for blood to be drawn quickly and easily; however, a needle and syringe may be better suited for elderly patients or patients with unreliable veins.
- Requirements to become a phlebotomist vary, but in general, being a phlebotomist requires training for six months to a year, along with occasional refresher courses.
- In addition to learning how to draw blood, phlebotomists must learn CPR, good bedside manner and the legal and ethical issues that pertain to the collection and handling of blood.
- Since phlebotomists work primarily with patients, it is essential that they have good people skills. They should be friendly, have good oral and written communication skills, and they should be able to work in a stressful environment.
