Phlebotomy Technician: Main Duties and Responsibilities (00:24)

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Carol Kleinbrahm draws specimens from patients so the doctor can diagnose specific diseases and determine a course of treatment. Sterile samples could include blood, urine, semen, and stool.

Phlebotomy Technician: Career Beginnings (01:25)

Kleinbrahm began her career in banking but wanted to have more human contact. After determining her aptitude for phlebotomy, she began taking evening classes.

Phlebotomy Technician: Keys for Success (01:31)

Keep learning. Phlebotomy is a hands-on profession where the patient needs to feel comfortable; sterile samples must be obtained. With children, assuage their fears through communication.

Phlebotomy Technician: Education and Certification Requirements (01:47)

Phlebotomy classes can be taken separately, but Kleinbrahm recommends taking the medical assistant course and becoming certified in CPR. Stay up to date on the latest medical advances through journal entries or further education. A machine can determine triglyceride, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels immediately.

Phlebotomy Technician: Workplace Atmosphere (02:44)

Make the patient feel comfortable before laying out the sterile drape and tourniquet. Other equipment includes needle, barrels, gauze, wipes, centrifuge, and blood rack. Kleinbrahm discusses differences between working as an independent contractor and working in a laboratory, hospital, or private doctor's office.

Phlebotomy Technician: Advice for Aspiring Pros (02:09)

Kleinbrahm discusses tricks to finding a vein including making a fist, fluid, heel warmers, and using gravity. The antecubital space is not always the best draw point. Make the patient comfortable and keep them chatting. Keep abreast of current medical innovations.

Phlebotomy Technician: Day on the Job (01:44)

Turn on the computers, greet the patient, and ensure all paperwork is correct. The draw station must be stocked and cleaned before a client's arrival. Draw and process the specimens.

Phlebotomy Technician: Industry Goals and Services (00:40)

Blood samples must be collected and processed carefully. If the proper protocol is not followed the lab will not accept the specimen.

Phlebotomy Technician: Industry Challenges (00:53)

Challenges include staying current on new diseases, different procedures, and what the doctor wants for the specimen. It is necessary to adjust to different age populations because of skin differences.

Phlebotomy Technician: Looking at the Future (01:22)

People will always need good health care workers. Kleinbrahm describes how the human connection is required for phlebotomy. Further education can lead to more opportunities.