Phlebotomist: Job Duties, Skills and Salary 2025

What Does a Phlebotomist do?

A Phlebotomist is a healthcare professional trained to draw blood from patients for medical testing, transfusions, donations, or research. They are responsible for accurately identifying patients, labeling blood samples, and ensuring the correct handling and storage of these specimens.

Phlebotomists use a variety of techniques to collect blood, including venipuncture, finger pricks, and heel sticks, while ensuring patient comfort and safety. They also maintain patient records, verify medical histories, and may assist with other laboratory duties as needed. Their role is crucial in the diagnostic process, providing accurate and timely blood samples for analysis.

Their work is essential in supporting the diagnostic and treatment processes within healthcare settings, ensuring that blood samples are collected safely and efficiently.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

Phlebotomists in the Healthcare field handle essential tasks and contribute significantly to achieving team and organizational goals. Here are some of their primary responsibilities:

• Draw blood from patients using venipuncture, finger pricks, or other techniques as required.
• Properly identify patients and label blood samples to ensure accuracy in testing and diagnosis.
• Ensure the safe and hygienic handling, storage, and transportation of blood samples.
• Provide patient care by ensuring comfort during the blood draw procedure and addressing any concerns.
• Verify and record patient medical histories, ensuring all necessary information is documented.
• Maintain accurate patient records and enter data into the laboratory information system.
• Prepare and organize blood draw equipment, including needles, tourniquets, and collection tubes.
• Assist with other laboratory duties, such as preparing samples for testing or processing specimens, as needed.

How to Become a Phlebotomist

Launching a career as a Phlebotomist requires a specific education. We outline the essential qualifications, skills, and steps to enter this field.

Qualification

• High school diploma or equivalent; completion of a phlebotomy training program is required.
• Certification from a recognized phlebotomy certifying agency, such as the National Phlebotomy Association (NPA) or the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), is highly advantageous.
• Experience in a healthcare setting, such as a hospital, clinic, or laboratory, is beneficial.
• Strong understanding of blood collection techniques, medical terminology, and safety protocols.
• Proficiency in using medical and laboratory equipment related to blood collection.

Requirements & Skills

• Excellent manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination to perform blood draws accurately and efficiently.
• Strong communication skills to interact with patients, explaining procedures and addressing any concerns.
• Attention to detail to ensure the correct labeling, handling, and documentation of blood samples.
• Ability to work calmly and effectively under pressure, particularly when dealing with anxious or distressed patients.
• Commitment to maintaining patient confidentiality and adhering to healthcare regulations and standards.

Phlebotomist Salary Guide

Wondering what Phlebotomists earn? Explore salary ranges by experience, and career tips to maximize your earning potential.

The average salary for a Phlebotomist in the U.S. is approximately $37,200 per year and can vary from entry-level to senior positions. Phlebotomists may receive a wide range of benefits.

Phlebotomist Salary Career Steps