The role of the Phlebotomist is to safely collect blood samples from patients and subsequently label, store and pass them to the laboratory for testing, adhering to relevant health and safety standards and practice procedures.
It is important for Phlebotomists to have good interpersonal skills so they can explain the procedure to the patient and reassure any patients who feel anxious about their blood being taken.
Phlebotomy can be a stand-alone role, or it can be included within the role of the Healthcare Assistant (HCA).
Your role may involve:
- Interviewing and preparing the patient for the blood draw
- Drawing/collecting blood samples
- Labelling samples and passing to the laboratory for testing
- Answering patient questions
You might be suited to a Phlebotomist role if you are:
- Caring, patient and understanding
- Organised and methodical
- Accurate with great attention to detail
- Able to follow processes and protocols
- Good at working in a team and with the public
- Comfortable using a variety of medical terminology
Entry requirements and skills:
No set formal qualifications are required, but you will need to demonstrate:
- Good numeracy, literacy and IT skills
- Relevant work experience in a healthcare setting or with the public would be advantageous
