What is the workday of a phlebotomist like?

Phlebotomists work alongside doctors and nurses in many different types of healthcare facilities. By concentrating solely on drawing physical specimens for testing or blood transfusions, they ease the workload of other healthcare professionals.

Working conditions are usually comfortable and hours are generally steady, but vary according to location. Due to the fact that large medical facilities can be open 24 hours a day, this means that many entry-level phlebotomists will be working the hours in evening and late shifts.  They may also work weekends and holidays, depending on demand.

Phlebotomists must be generally alert people who are calm, but cautious about their tools and work environment. They must continually observe standardized guidelines to guard against infectious disease and other hazards while working. Dangers posed include accidental needle sticks or exposure to infected blood. When following proper methods of infection control and sterilization, few hazards exist. If there is one common complaint among certified phlebotomists, it's that their duties are very limited. However, if you enjoy daily work with clearly laid-out schedules and expectations, phlebotomy may be a good match for your career aspirations.

The certified phlebotomist is a relatively new professional in the field of healthcare. As the medical industry has made startling new technological advances, phlebotomists play a large part toward making an accurate diagnosis and developing a treatment plan.