Blood is drawn for use in medical procedures such as blood testing and blood transfusions by phlebotomists. Phlebotomist careers are a relatively narrow field due to the specialized nature of the job’s tasks. There are still some options available to those interested in such a career.
The majority of phlebotomist career options revolve around the work environment. A phlebotomist can put his or her skills to the test in a variety of settings. Blood tests are performed in a variety of settings, including doctor’s offices, medical labs, home health services, and long-term care facilities, to name a few. Furthermore, medical jobs are required in a variety of settings, including prisons and some schools, particularly universities.
The most important thing for a phlebotomist to do is to find a comfortable working environment. Not every location will be suitable for everyone. Some people may not appreciate a hospital’s long hours or shift requirements. Others may think that doctor’s offices move too slowly. Some people may prefer the sense of security that comes with working in a prison and for the government. Others may find it extremely distressing. It all boils down to a matter of personal taste.
Working in a hospital entails two main responsibilities. Some phlebotomists go around the hospital, checking doctors’ orders at nurse stations and carrying out the necessary tasks. Others may work in a lab, where outpatient services are provided to those who have made an appointment or who walk in. Some people may do a combination of the two. Working as a phlebotomist in the emergency room is a possibility for some. However, this type of specialization is usually only found in the largest hospitals.
Phlebotomist jobs in medical labs are likely to have responsibilities that are similar to those in hospital labs. They’ll be in charge of drawing blood from patients who have a doctor’s order. They may also be in charge of handling chain-of-custody materials, such as drug-screening specimens.
In other health-care settings, phlebotomists will perform nearly identical tasks, though many will not have to worry about chain of custody. A phlebotomist must be personable and have an easy-going style, while maintaining professionalism at all times, regardless of the type of career setting chosen. It can be difficult to draw blood from anyone. Children, in particular, may resist, necessitating even more patience and understanding. As a result, if someone is hesitant to work with young children, they should keep this in mind, as some facilities have a higher number of children than others.