What is a phlebotomist?
Phlebotomists are health professionals responsible for collecting biological samples from patients, such as blood, urine or swabs for laboratory analysis.
Phlebotomists can work in hospitals, medical practices, pathology collection centres, or in some cases, in the community (patients’ homes or within an aged care facility)
Tasks and duties
- Greeting patients and assisting with appointments.
- Explaining procedures to be carried out.
- Advising patients on any special requirements prior to test procedures.
- Answering questions or concerns.
- Collecting blood, non-blood samples and other tests from patients:
This includes: Venous blood (regular blood test), arterial blood (Arterial blood gas), urine specimens, swabs, other non-blood specimens, saliva testing, semen specimens, nail clipping, nail scrapping, and skin scraping. Occasionally, phlebotomists may be required to perform: ECG, Holter monitor, blood sugar testing using a glucometer, and IV cannulation.
- Packaging, labelling and dispatching specimens.
- Maintaining stock.
- Complying with Workplace Health and Safety procedures.
Personal Characteristics
Phlebotomists enjoy working with people and have a strong sense of compassion. They have fine motor skills and steady hands to collect blood specimens with a needle safely.
Most phlebotomists love the medical industry and have a big passion for healthcare.
How to become a Phlebotomist
Most organisations will ask you to complete a qualification in pathology collection. You may also be required to undertake short courses in different aspects of specimen collection.
Where do I begin?
- Contact a training provider to complete a Certificate III in Pathology Collection (HLT37215)
- Obtain a working with Children Check, First Aid Certificate and Full driver’s licence.
- Ensure you are up-to-date with your vaccinations.
- Participate in Vocational Placement hours to complete your professional training.
- You may consider taking short courses to complement your certificate. A course on IV cannulation is highly regarded.
I work in healthcare and I want to be a phlebotomist.
If you already hold healthcare-related credentials, you may be eligible to recognise part of your studies and finish the Cert III in Pathology collection more quickly. To learn more, get in touch with a pathology collection training provider.
