1. Home
  2. Careers
  3. Health Careers

What is a Phlebotomist

By , About.com Guide

Question: What is a Phlebotomist

What does a phlebotomist do, how do you become one, and what jobs are available for phlebotomists?

Answer: Phlebotomists are medical professionals who draw blood from patients for various lab tests and procedures. Nurses also commonly perform phlebotomy, and hospitals and medical offices will often hire additional staff who are trained in phlebotomy.

A high school graduate or college student could take a course at a local technical or vocational school and learn phlebotomy. If you're not trained or qualified in any other nursing skills, compensation may be limited, (probably around $7.00-9.00 per hour, approximately).

Many professionals who plan to become a nurse or a doctor often start out by working in a medical office or hospital as a phlebotomist. Because phlebotomy entails a fairly short training period, and because phlebotomist jobs are relatively easy to find and obtain, phlebotomy is a great way for someone to try out the medical profession. Jobs for phlebotomists are available at hospitals, medical offices, and clinics.

More Health Careers Q&A
Explore Health Careers
About.com Special Features

A Smarter Future

Tips that will help finance your education, excel in the classroom, and advance your career. More >

How to Write a Cover Letter

Looking for a new job? Use these tips and put your best foot forward. More >

  1. Home
  2. Careers
  3. Health Careers
  4. Glossary
  5. P - Z
  6. Phlebotomist - What is a phlebotomist

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.