Phlebotomists: the vital link between you and the laboratory

(Inside Aotea, August 2011)

The people who take your blood are called ‘phlebotomists’. It’s a bit of a technical mouthful for such a person-focused role but it does reflect the importance of their medical role.

Christina Warren, our phlebotomy training co-ordinator, highlights a phlebotomist’s role and responsibilities.

Venipuncture experts

The main role of a phlebotomist is to perform venipuncture: taking blood samples.

They ensure specimens are of good quality and collected correctly so you and the laboratory get accurate results.

A phlebotomist also does skin allergy testing and advises patients on sample requirements.

“We’re that vital link between the patient and the laboratory,” says Christina.

Intensive training on the job

Our phlebotomists are qualified medical laboratory technicians. It takes them two years of formal training, including theory and practical, to gain their QMLT (Qualified Medical Laboratory Technician) certificate.

Other skills required include great customer service and rapport.

“It’s such a practical job,” says Christina. “You can only learn the  skills by doing it.”

Taking care of you

In the short walk from reception to the collection room, your phlebotomist is already doing an important part of their job -- seeing how they can make your visit more comfortable.

Christina says if you have any concerns, are feeling nervous about your visit or have a tendency to faint, let your phlebotomist know. “Whatever is required, we’ll take care of you,” she says.

Checking your details

Before collecting your sample your phlebotomist must verify your identity.

“We need to make sure we have the right person with the right form, so we can get the right results through to the right doctor,” says Christina.

Before you leave

After your blood test, your phlebotomist asks you to apply pressure to your arm to help prevent bruising and, while you are doing this, they check and label all specimen containers. They also advise you how to look after your arm to reduce potential bruising.

And that’s probably good advice to repeat here, too: for a couple of hours after your blood test, don’t carry your bag, lift children or open doors with the arm you had blood taken from.