11 Mar Top 15 Phlebotomy Questions Answered
Phlebotomy is a fascinating subject with lots of online discussion. To lend a helping hand, we found the top 15 phlebotomy questions people ask on Google. Whether you’re looking into a career in phlebotomy or are just curious about the process, you’ve come to the right place. From understanding why phlebotomy is performed to exploring the best certifications, we’ve got you covered with all the answers to your burning questions.
1. Why is phlebotomy done?
Phlebotomy is done to collect blood samples for laboratory testing. From testing, doctors can discover if someone is sick, monitor diseases and treatments, and learn more through research.
2. Which phlebotomy certification is best?
The “best” phlebotomy certification will depend on your personal goals. That said, you’ll want to get your certification from an agency that is widely recognized in the industry. In the US, some of the top groups that give out these certificates are the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), the National Healthcare Certification Organization (NHCO), the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), and the National Phlebotomy Association (NPA).
3. Where can phlebotomists work?
Phlebotomists can work in many healthcare settings, including hospitals, laboratories, blood donation centers, doctors’ offices, and clinics. (We also have a whole post on where to volunteer here!)
4. When do I release the tourniquet in phlebotomy?
Release the tourniquet after the blood starts flowing but before removing the needle from the arm. Do this within 1 to 2 minutes to prevent bruising or nerve damage.
5. How is phlebotomy done?
First, a phlebotomist cleans the draw site. Then, they wrap a tourniquet around the arm to make the veins easier to see. Then, they insert a clean needle into a vein, usually in the arm, and blood flows into collection tubes. After that, they remove the tourniquet and put gentle pressure on the area to stop any bleeding.
6. Can phlebotomy cause anemia?
If someone gives blood often and in large amounts, it could cause anemia. This is especially true for people who are already at risk or have health problems. But, standard practices are in place to make this risk as low as possible.
7. Are phlebotomy classes hard?
How hard phlebotomy classes feel will depend on your learning style and how intense the program is. But, most programs train people who have never been in healthcare. So, by putting in a good effort, most people can complete their training and do well. (Check out our post on this here!)
8. Are only phlebotomists allowed to take blood?
Although phlebotomists are the experts in taking blood, other healthcare workers can do it, too. This will depend on the facility’s rules and who is available.
9. Why is phlebotomy important?
Phlebotomy is the first step toward treating a person’s illness. Without it, healthcare professionals wouldn’t have the information they need to understand and treat many health conditions. Phlebotomy is also super important because it allows people to donate blood to those who need it. Lastly, it’s a huge contributor to medical research and advancements.
10. Which phlebotomy tubes need to be centrifuged?
Gel separator tubes, serum test tubes (usually red or gold-topped), and plasma separation tubes (typically green-topped) need to go through centrifugation.
11. Where to draw in phlebotomy?
Phlebotomists usually draw blood from the inside of the elbow (called the antecubital fossa). This is where you find veins like the median cubital vein, cephalic vein, and basilic vein. They will also draw blood from the dorsal veins on the back of the hands. (Deep dive on this topic here!)
12. What does phlebotomy mean?
The word “phlebotomy” comes from two Greek words: “phlebo-” which means vein, and “-tomy” which means cutting. In other words, it’s taking blood from a vein with a needle, usually for testing or giving blood.
13. How do you pronounce phlebotomy?
Phlebotomy is pronounced as “fle-BOT-uh-mee.”
14. Can phlebotomy cause nerve damage?
It doesn’t happen often, but poor phlebotomy techniques can hurt the nerves. This might cause pain, numbness, or a tingling sensation. That’s why phlebotomists need to go through proper training.
15. Are phlebotomy externships paid?
Phlebotomy externships usually don’t pay. But, depending on the program and where it is, some places might offer stipends or other forms of compensation.
In conclusion, phlebotomy is getting more important in healthcare every day, so learning about it is crucial. We’ve gone through the questions people ask the most on Google to help you get a good understanding of phlebotomy. Whether you’re thinking about being a phlebotomist or just curious about how it all works, we want this guide to show you how crucial phlebotomy is for keeping us healthy. By answering these questions, we hope to show you why it matters so much.