What does a Phlebotomist do?
Phlebotomists are responsible for collecting blood samples in accordance with hospital and laboratory policies, and federal, state, and local regulations. They also are tasked with labeling samples appropriately and logging all information related to tests performed and samples taken into a database. Phlebotomists might be drawing blood for tests, research, or donations. Phlebotomists generally work in state, local, and private hospitals, and laboratories.
Phlebotomists need to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Most phlebotomists have also completed a phlebotomy program and obtained a phlebotomy certification. Certified phlebotomists have met several requirements, including completing an approved phlebotomy program, completing a minimum number of hours of work experience, and passing a certification exam. Additionally, some states require phlebotomists to be licensed in the state of practice. The best phlebotomists have an eye for detail and great interpersonal skills.
- Greet patients and verify their identiy
- Collect blood samples by performing venipunctures and fingersticks
- Label all samples according to outlined procedures and policies
- Maintain lab equipment in a clean and safe manner
- Record tests performed and blood samples taken into databases
- Transport samples in a timely manner and in accordance with outlined policies and procedures
- Explain tests to patients and answer any questions they might have
- Complete all work in accordance with outlined hospital and laboratory guidelines, and federal, state, and local requirements
- High school diploma or general education degree (GED) required
- Phlebotomy certification highly preferred
- Phlebotomy license in state of practice, if required
- CPR certification preferred
- Strong eye for detail
- Excellent interpersonal skills
- Proficient verbal and written English skills
- Proven ability to prioritize a variety of tasks
- Familiar with infection control policies and procedures
How much does a Phlebotomist make?
Base Pay
Additional Pay
$40,502
/ yrPhlebotomist Career Path
Learn how to become a Phlebotomist, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Phlebotomist Insights
Labcorp“This is one of the best stepping stone jobs and the pay is good for starting”
Deaconess“Deaconess is one of the better hospitals I have ever been to and it is nice to work there.”
Labcorp“My child was sick and I had a doctors note but they didn’t care.”
Lloyd Staffing“The 1st contract I had went well I work 3 months and the pay was great.”
Aurora Health Care“Good news is I liked my job and Carl Lange is the best possible instructor I could have had for my training.”
Quest Diagnostics“Training was ok but my lead was not much of a me tor when I needed help”
Labcorp“We also get incentive bonuses (not the best) but it’s better than nothing.”
Labcorp“Haven't had any issues so far I have great management and I communicate well as long as you communicate shouldn't have any issues.”
Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of a Phlebotomist
When working as a Phlebotomist, the most common skills you will need to perform your job and for career success are Microsoft Office Suite, Written Communication, Interface, Excellent Customer Service, and Drawing.
- Physician Assistant
- Nuclear Medicine Technologist
- Surgical Technician
- Specimen Processor
The most common qualifications to become a Phlebotomist include a minimum of a Bachelor's Degree and an average of 0 - 1 years of experience not including years spent in education and/or training.