Importance of a Phlebotomy Health Care Career
Phlebotomists are required to follow different standard procedures and rules when drawing blood from the patients. Phlebotomists have to make sure that their patients do not suffer from different kinds of infection because of the procedure needed to be done. Prior to drawing blood using a needle, the phlebotomist must first find an accessible vein. After which, they will then place a tourniquet and an antiseptic is used for precautionary purposes. Keeping the site clean is important. The phlebotomist must also make sure that there are sufficient stocks of supplies available.
When drawing blood of the donor, the responsibility of the phlebotomists is to identify and verify the identity of the patient to avoid complications and legal hassles. The phlebotomist must explain the procedure to the patient in order to make him or her more comfortable and relaxed during the whole procedure. They should also maintain the cleanliness of the trays in which blood is drawn. These health care professionals work together with doctors and nurses. They should also prepare the specimens for research. Placing a label on every specimen is important.
In becoming a phlebotomist, one has to have a graduate or post-graduate degree in the field of health care. Having the needed certificates and licenses is important in working as a phlebotomist. Having patience, good communication skill, hard work, best communication skills and the ability to learn new things are the important qualities that one must have in becoming a successful phlebotomist. The training in becoming a phlebotomist varies. The coursework includes subjects on anatomy and physiology regarding the circulatory system, respiratory, urinary, muscular and skeletal system. Phlebotomists study about blood cells and its composition. Practical hands on phlebotomist training are also an important part. Students will be able to learn how to get blood by venipuncture. There are also techniques that are used for different ages. Additional hands on courses also includes specimen handling, labeling, sorting and preparation. All of these are intended to keep the process as organized as possible. Phlebotomists should also learn on how to handle the specimens properly you protect the integrity of the samples to have a better outcome.
The phlebotomist’s salary depends on certain factors like the number of years of practical experience, type of employer, location of the work and the skills and educational qualifications of the aspirant. Those who are working in urban areas will get paid more than those working in small hospitals in rural areas. The phlebotomist salary is low compared to other medical jobs. For new entrants in this field with not much experience, one can start off with around $25,000 per year. For those who have four to six years of experience, they can earn between $26,000 and $29,000 a year. For some who have finished an associate or bachelor degree, they earn more compared to those who have completed a certification. The salary also differs from one state to another. If one works in an urban area, they will definitely earn more than those working in rural areas or small towns.
