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Phlebotomist

What Do Phlebotomist Do?

Job Description: Draw blood for tests, transfusions, donations, or research. May explain the procedure to patients and assist in the recovery of patients with adverse reactions.

Life As a Phlebotomist

  • Provide sample analysis results to physicians to assist diagnosis.
  • Transport specimens or fluid samples from collection sites to laboratories.
  • Determine donor suitability, according to interview results, vital signs, and medical history.
  • Draw blood from capillaries by dermal puncture, such as heel or finger stick methods.
  • Administer subcutaneous or intramuscular injects, in accordance with licensing restrictions.
  • Process blood or other fluid samples for further analysis by other medical professionals.

Phlebotomist Skills

Phlebotomists state the following job skills are important in their day-to-day work.

Service Orientation: Actively looking for ways to help people.

Social Perceptiveness: Being aware of others’ reactions and understanding why they react as they do.

Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

Types of Phlebotomist

  • Phlebotomy Technologist
  • Long Term Care Phlebotomist
  • Phlebotomy Services Technician
  • Phlebotomy Program Coordinator
  • Outpatient Phlebotomist

Are There Job Opportunities for Phlebotomists?

In 2016, there was an estimated number of 122,700 jobs in the United States for Phlebotomist. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 24.5% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 30,100 new jobs for Phlebotomist by 2026. There will be an estimated 16,900 positions for Phlebotomist per year.

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The states with the most job growth for Phlebotomist are Utah, Arizona, and Colorado. Watch out if you plan on working in Rhode Island, Connecticut, or Mississippi. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.

What is the Average Salary of a Phlebotomist

The salary for Phlebotomists ranges between about $25,020 and $49,060 a year.

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Phlebotomists who work in California, District of Columbia, or New York, make the highest salaries.

How much do Phlebotomists make in different U.S. states?

State Annual Mean Salary
Alabama $31,420
Alaska $42,290
Arizona $32,810
Arkansas $28,690
California $45,030
Colorado $35,800
Connecticut $39,310
Delaware $39,120
District of Columbia $41,600
Florida $32,280
Georgia $32,190
Idaho $31,920
Illinois $36,090
Indiana $34,290
Iowa $30,760
Kansas $32,890
Kentucky $31,130
Louisiana $29,970
Maine $31,190
Maryland $39,760
Massachusetts $39,970
Michigan $32,450
Minnesota $38,630
Mississippi $29,460
Missouri $31,320
Montana $32,240
Nebraska $32,000
Nevada $38,320
New Hampshire $39,870
New Jersey $38,090
New Mexico $29,700
New York $40,630
North Carolina $32,070
North Dakota $33,340
Ohio $34,230
Oklahoma $31,570
Oregon $39,150
Pennsylvania $34,370
Rhode Island $39,930
South Carolina $31,180
South Dakota $27,670
Tennessee $30,090
Texas $33,000
Utah $31,290
Vermont $35,740
Virginia $35,960
Washington $39,410
West Virginia $30,200
Wisconsin $35,530
Wyoming $32,160

What Tools do Phlebotomists Use?

Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Phlebotomists:

  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Word
  • Microsoft Office
  • JavaScript
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • MEDITECH software
  • Scheduling software
  • Medical procedure coding software
  • Electronic medical record EMR software
  • Laboratory information system LIS
  • Iatric Systems MobiLab

How do I Become a Phlebotomist?

Individuals working as a Phlebotomist have obtained the following education levels:

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How Long Does it Take to Become a Phlebotomist?

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References:

Image Credit: Staff Sgt. Jerilyn Quintanilla via U.S. Air Force photo

More about our data sources and methodologies.

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