5 Mistakes a New Phlebotomy Technician Should Avoid

A career as a phlebotomy technician can be both exciting and challenging. While this career sets one on a rewarding path in health care, it also requires precision, skill, and attention to minute detail. This means phlebotomy technicians should avoid the most common mistakes that compromise patient safety and help them enhance their confidence levels. Here are five mistakes to avoid to set yourself up for success in this field.

Poor Patient Identification

One of the most critical steps in phlebotomy is identifying a patient before withdrawing blood. Please correctly identify a patient to avoid a high level of medical error in diagnosis based on wrong test results and treatment based on such results. Always identify the patient by his full name and date of birth, cross-checking against his medical records or wristband.

Poor Technique

The patient can experience discomfort, bruising, or even injury if incorrect techniques are employed in drawing blood. Proper procedures include choosing the correct vein, utilizing the right needle size, and ensuring the needle is set at an appropriate angle. Good hygiene and gloves help avoid infection and generally ensure safety and sterility.

Poor Communication Skills

Effective communication is essential when performing a phlebotomy procedure. A patient may be afraid or nervous due to blood withdrawal, so you should be able to decrease fear by describing the procedure in basic steps. 

If communication goes wrong, this could further escalate in patients and become a bad experience. Always introduce yourself, describe the procedure, and address any patient concerns.

Failure to Properly Label Samples

Mislabelled blood samples thus lead to diagnostic failure and decreased quality of care. Each sample should be labeled at the time of collection with the correct patient’s name, date of birth, and date and time of draw. Label checking before sending samples for laboratory testing helps minimize pitfalls and ensure proper test results.

Not Paying Attention to the Patient’s Condition

Ignoring the patient’s distress while performing a procedure is very dangerous. Some patients feel faint, dizzy, or have a fall in blood pressure regarding blood drawing from them. The patient’s condition must thus be observed closely, with such preparedness to react fast if in distress taken as an essential measure. Knowing how to deal with such situations can help ensure safe and effective care.

Phlebotomy Technician Career Pursuit

If you are considering a career as a phlebotomy technician, look into comprehensive training through Northwest Career College. With experienced instructors and a supportive learning environment, Northwest Career College will prepare you for success in health care. 

Ensure high-quality training through a respected course. This will lead to a fulfilling career that positively affects patients’ minds. Refer to our article for additional insights and steps to jumpstart your phlebotomy career.