What is a Phlebotomy Job?
Phlebotomy is a medical field focused on the drawing of blood samples. It is performed by trained medical practitioners called phlebotomists. A phlebotomy job is to collect blood from a patient, mostly through venous puncture with a needle in the patient’s arm, and to ensure the accuracy and safe storage of the collected blood. This professional job is necessary to provide medical laboratories with unadulterated samples for health and medical research.
What Does Training Include?
To become a phlebotomist, one must receive formal training at a school or university. Generally, such a training program lasts for a few months and includes courses and practical hands-on experience in various areas of phlebotomy. Typical courses include:
- Anatomy and Physiology: This course deals with the structure and functioning of the body, and teaches about structure, functional relationships and organs.
- Medical Terminology: This course teaches about the common abbreviations and terms used in the medical profession.
- Drawing Blood Samples: The basics of collecting and troubleshooting blood samples. Students also learn about preparing vessels and tubes, safety protocols and preparation of equipment.
In addition, students may take courses in medical ethics and communications, patient education, first aid and CPR, laboratory safety and clinical laboratory technology. After completion of the course, students can take an exam to obtain a certification and become a certified phlebotomist.
What is the Scope of a Phlebotomy Job?
Phlebotomy jobs are available in hospitals, blood donation centers, police stations and private clinics. There are also opportunities for experienced phlebotomists to take positions as instructors or supervisors at universities and in training programs. The scope of a phlebotomy job is wide and offers many interesting opportunities.
Conclusion
Phlebotomy jobs are an important part of healthcare and are necessary for ensuring accuracy and safety of blood samples for medical research. With the proper training and certification, one can become a qualified and certified phlebotomist with a wide range of job opportunities.