PHLEBOTOMY

Phlebotomy is a technique in which a needle is temporarily inserted into a vein to provide venous access for venous blood sampling. Veins have a three-layered wall composed of an internal endothelium surrounded by a thin layer of muscle fibers, which in turn is surrounded by a layer of connective tissue.

Phlebotomy technicians collect blood from patients and prepare the samples for testing. Most work in hospitals and clinics, but some collect blood for donation purposes. Phlebotomy technicians are important members of the health care team and often need to explain the blood-drawing procedure and put patients at ease.

Identification of the optimal site for venous access involves both visual and tactile evaluation. After applying a venous tourniquet, the physician should inspect and palpate potential sites, starting with the non-dominant extremity. On palpation, the vein should be soft and bouncy, it should refill after being depressed, and it ideally should be well supported by the surrounding tissue. 

Phlebotomists are trained on the job and so securing a trainee phlebotomist position is recommended. The training includes theory and practical work including

• how to take blood from different patient groups, including children and the elderly

• different ways to take blood

• health and safety

• anatomy and physiology

• labelling samples

Phlebotomy technicians are responsible for drawing samples of blood and preparing them for testing. Common tasks and duties include:

• Explaining procedures to patients

• Comforting patients that might be nervous about needles

• Taking blood pressure, pulse, and respiration readings

• Drawing blood

• Applying bandages after blood is drawn

• Sending blood, urine, or fecal samples to the lab for testing

• Sterilizing equipment and cleaning workspaces

• Updating patient medical records

Phlebotomy Technician Program in Los Angeles work in hospitals, clinics, doctors’ offices, nursing homes, private home care, medical labs, blood donation centers, research institutes, and insurance companies. They may work day, evening, or night shifts, including weekend and holiday hours. The majority of their time is spent on their feet, interacting with patients or preparing samples to be sent to the lab.