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Career Overview |
| Phlebotomists may be hired by a variety of health care facilities, including hospitals, independent reference laboratories, physician office laboratories, clinics, long-term care facilities, government laboratories, insurance companies and health maintenance organizations |
Working Environment |
| Laboratories usually are well-lighted and clean; however various chemicals and biological hazards may be present. Phlebotomists are trained to work with blood products, and to use special safety precautions to prevent contamination. The nature of the job requires prolonged periods standing or walking. Heavy items may need to be lifted or retrieved. Depending upon the location of employment, hours may include evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays |
Personal Characteristics |
Phlebotomists need good communication skills as interpersonal interactions are constant. The ability to pay close attention to detail is critical as the failure to follow proper procedures may lead to faulty test results. Manual dexterity and adequate vision, including normal color vision, is required. Phlebotomists need the physical ability to stand or walk continually. |
Employment Opportunities |
| The Bureau of Labor Statistics includes phlebotomy in its classification of “clinical laboratory workers.” According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Employment of clinical laboratory workers is expected to grow about as fast as average for all occupations through the year 2010, as the volume of laboratory tests increases with population growth and the development of new types of tests.” Phlebotomists may be eligible for employment in laboratories, clinics, and hospitals |
For further information contact: Patricia Kelly, Director: pkelly@msdelta.edu
or Alicia Smith, Administrative Support: asmith@msdelta.edu
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