If you want to help others and work in a rewarding health care career, you may consider becoming a phlebotomy technician. Drawing blood samples from patients requires great skill, care, and commitment to ensure as little discomfort as possible. Whether you’ve just started your training or been on the job for a while, below are a few strategies every professional should know. 

4 Tips for Phlebotomy Technicians

1. Take Your Time When Collecting a Sample

To avoid making a mistake, it helps for technicians to take their time instead of rushing through the process. It gives the patient a moment to prepare and allows you time to focus, so you won’t have to re-draw because of an error.

2. Collect Samples From Medial Veins

Medial veins are located closer to the skin’s surface and are easier to puncture because they remain visible and still. You’ll find it in the crevice of the elbow, and it is often a less painful area for drawing blood from adult patients.

3. Interact With Patients

Having a good bedside manner isn’t just for doctors. It’s important to be friendly and composed with people to ease any fears or phobias they may have about needles or blood. Calm them by suggesting they turn away or close their eyes and breathe while you collect the sample.

4. Invert Collection Tubes

Invert collection tubes that contain anticoagulants to prevent clotting. Otherwise, the test sample may be rejected, and the patient will need to withdraw more blood.

Every new phlebotomy technician should practice these skills to do their work carefully and effectively. If you are considering a career in health care, contact Big Apple Training in White Plains, NY. The licensed allied health school will help you accomplish your career goals with their affordable medical training programs. They offer certification in medical billing and coding, as well as to become a medical assistant and phlebotomy technician. To learn more about their options, call (914) 437-7373 or visit the website.