Phlebotomist technicians are important medical professionals in laboratories, hospitals, and other medical offices. They draw blood from patients for a wide variety of purposes, including transfusions, health tests, and blood donations. With an anticipated job growth rate of 27 percent over the next decade, which is much higher than the average job growth rate, it's easy to see why people are attracted to this respected profession. To properly prepare for this demanding, challenging, and rewarding job, students should enroll in a phlebotomy technician training program, and they should also follow these tips to cultivate the must-have skills of the profession.
Optimize Communication Skills
Phlebotomists are required to explain certain procedures to patients as a daily part of the job. These medical professionals also need to be able to put patients at ease when they may be stressed about medical tests and other health issues they're experiencing. It's important to work on communication skills as well as people skills. In short, phlebotomists need an excellent bedside manner to thrive in their job.
Develop Organizational Skills
A phlebotomist has to keep and update patient records based on the actions that are taken and instructions from doctors and other medical professionals. This is an extremely important part of the job because doctors rely on accurate patient records to provide optimal care.
Work on Being Detail-Oriented
An attention to detail is necessary for every part of a phlebotomist's job. They have to prepare reagents. They also have to send appropriately-labeled samples of blood, urine, and fecal matter for tests. It's important for an aspiring phlebotomist to work on the close attention they pay to details.
Develop Hand-Eye Coordination
A phlebotomist must regularly draw blood from patients, and being skilled at performing such a duty is extremely important. One who cannot typically draw blood on a first attempt may cause unnecessary discomfort to patients, which can make them fear procedures and maybe even avoid their own healthcare. The potential negative consequences of failing at this procedure makes it especially important for phlebotomists to dedicate themselves to having good hand-eye coordination on the job.
Embrace Compassion
Because of the nature of the job, phlebotomists will likely encounter many patients who may be afraid or upset. Many patients are even outright fearful of having their blood drawn or seeing a needle come close to their skin. A phlebotomist who is able to show compassion and understanding to an upset patient may help put them at ease and turn the situation into a better experience for them.
Finally, keep in mind that phlebotomists can cultivate most of these skills with a dedication and willingness to learn. A phlebotomy technician training program can help ensure that an aspiring phlebotomist is ready to enter the profession and is ready to handle the demands of the job.
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