Phlebotomy isn’t an easy job by any means. It may seem simple in theory to complete blood draws and handle samples, but as with all things in a clinical environment, there’s more to it than meets the eye. However, that’s no reason to get dismayed or alarmed, though, because we’ve got just the information you need to get yourself started on the route to becoming a great Phlebotomy Technician. Let’s jump right in and take a look at the three tips to help you excel starting with your very first day.
1. Keep talking to your patient.
Blood draws elicit all manner of emotions from patients. Some of your more stoic patients won’t even notice that you’ve gotten started (or that you’re done), while others might even faint at the sight of a syringe.
For the sake of your most faint-hearted patients, as well as your own, you should always do your best to keep lines of communication as open as possible. Not only is this a welcome distraction for people who’re worried sick by the idea of being pricked, but it also allows you to directly address and alleviate their concerns, making for a smoother procedure overall. Remember to listen attentively and respond reassuringly – it really does go a long way!
2. Take your time with the equipment (before the patient enters the room)
This is another way you can make it easier for your patient to be confident about the procedure they’re about to undergo. Make sure you know what you’ll need and where it is. The last thing your patient would want is for you to start scrambling to find gauze or medical tape when they’re bleeding profusely. Take a look at your supply of medical equipment to make sure you have everything you could need and that you know exactly how to use it.
3. Always remember to stay organized
It also helps if you organize your cabinets so that you can work more efficiently. A Phlebotomy Technician’s job can involve working with hundreds of blood samples in a day, and misplacing or mishandling any one of them means having to redo a blood draw, which is not something you or your patient would want.
4. Lastly, don’t forget to ask for help if you need it
The hospital or clinic you’re working in is undoubtedly home to any number of long-standing medical professionals. Not only do you stand to benefit by consulting them on their opinions, but it can also be a great, stress-free way to learn the tricks of the trade quickly.
If you’d like to know more about what to expect as a phlebotomist in the work environment, please contact us here.
Nationally Accredited Programs for Medical Health Careers
Get the training you need to start your career in medical health with great success. Phlebotomy Career Training adheres to strict guidelines when it comes to the safety and sanitation of both the patient and the health care worker. Aside from phlebotomy certification as a great stepping stone to other careers in medical health, there are many options and several tiers of phlebotomy certification available.
Other rewarding and invaluable careers choices available are medical assistants, pharmacy technicians, patient care services, dialysis technician, EKG technician, medical billing and coding and so much more. All of which are offered both online and in class with experienced educators and a customized learning experience.
There is a growing need for health care workers in all areas of medical health and having the proper training backed with nationally recognized and accredited certifications from the naptp and other institutions, seals the deal for a long term and rewarding career that will always be in demand.
The work of a phlebotomist is invaluable. This basic skill is nurtures all aspects of medical health and supports the services provided by medical assistants, doctors, nurses and all medical professionals. Call PCT today to learn more about our medical health classes and visit the naptp for more information about certification.