Allied Health - Phlebotomist

Job Title: Phlebotomist Job Summary: A Phlebotomist is a trained healthcare professional responsible for drawing blood from patients for various lab tests, transfusions, donations, or research.

The role requires attention to detail, excellent interpersonal skills, and a commitment to patient care and safety.

Key Responsibilities: Perform venipunctures and capillary punctures to collect blood specimens.

Verify patient identity and ensure proper labeling of specimens.

Prepare blood, urine, and other specimens for testing or transport.

Maintain sterile and sanitary equipment and work areas.

Enter patient data into medical records or laboratory systems.

Monitor patients for reactions and provide first aid when necessary.

Follow all safety protocols, including infection control and biohazard handling.

Maintain inventory of phlebotomy supplies.

Communicate effectively with patients, explaining procedures and easing anxieties.

Work collaboratively with other healthcare staff.

Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent (GED). Completion of a phlebotomy training program or certification course.

CPR certification may be required.

Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Manual dexterity and attention to detail.

Licensing and Certification Requirements by State: Most states do not require phlebotomists to be licensed, but employers often require certification.

However, a few states do have mandatory licensing or certification laws.

States that Require Certification/Licensure: California – Requires state certification through one of several approved certifying organizations and state registration.

Nevada – Requires a state-issued lab assistant license for phlebotomy duties.

Louisiana – Requires licensure through the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners.

Washington – Requires a Medical Assistant-Phlebotomist credential through the state Department of Health.

Recommended National Certifications (Even if Not State-Mandated): ASCP – American Society for Clinical Pathology NHA – National Healthcareer Association NCCT – National Center for Competency Testing AMT – American Medical Technologists ACA – American Certification Agency Work Environment: Hospitals Clinical laboratories Physician offices Blood donation centers Mobile blood units