Phlebotomy

Phlebotomy is the practice of collecting blood for laboratory testing, transfusion, or donation.

Phlebotomists draw blood, and sometimes do urine tests, pregnancy tests, strep tests, and EKGs - usually under the supervision of nurses, medical technologists, or laboratory managers. Phlebotomy is often practiced by physicians, nurses, medical assistants, and other health care professionals, as well.

There are a variety of educational roads to take for those who would like to pursue a career in phlebotomy. First, one must have a high school diploma or GED. From there, one can look into completing on-the-job preparation, completing a formal phlebotomy program, or preparing to pursue this career while in another health care profession that requires phlebotomy skills. California and Kentucky have additional certification requirements.

The practice of phlebotomy can be found in a variety of settings including clinics, labs, hospitals, physician's offices, blood banks, public health clinics, research institutions, other medical facilities, and more.

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