What Does a Phlebotomy Technician Do?

Phlebotomy technicians primarily draw blood for laboratory testing, as well as for blood donations, transfusions and research, in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, laboratories, private practices and blood donation centers.

The principal responsibilities of a phlebotomy technician are as follows:

• Verify the identity of a patient or donor in order to ensure that the test order is for that person and that the blood is properly labeled.
• Explain the procedure to the patient or donor so as to reduce any anxiety about having their blood drawn.
• Draw blood from the patient or donor using a variety of techniques, such as venipuncture or capillary puncture.
• Carefully label the sample for processing and testing.
• Enter the patient information into a database.
• Assemble and maintain needles, test tubes, blood vials and other medical instruments.
• Assist in the recovery of patients or donors with adverse reactions after their blood is drawn.
• Maintain clean and sanitary work areas in order to avoid infection and other complications.

In diagnostic and medical laboratories, often the only interaction the patient has is with the phlebotomy technician. Therefore, the appearance and professionalism of the phlebotomist is of utmost importance.

More and more employers require a professional phlebotomy technician certification.

When you earn a MedCA Phlebotomy Technician Certification (PH1), an employer will have confidence in your abilities and skills.

What Are the Requirements to Sit for the MedCA Phlebotomy Technician Certification Exam?

• Graduation from high school (or the equivalent).
• Graduation from an approved phlebotomy training program within the past five years.

or

• One year of satisfactory work experience as a phlebotomy technician within the past five years