Skip to content

Phlebotomist Technician Skills

Request Info

Request Information

What Kind of Skills Do You Need to Be a Phlebotomist?

Phlebotomists draw blood from patients for tests, research, transfusions, and/or blood donations. They work primarily in hospitals, doctors’ offices, blood donation centers, and laboratories. Along with drawing blood, they label the blood for processing, enter information in computer databases, and assemble and maintain all the medical instruments needed to draw blood.

Phlebotomists often explain the procedure gently to patients in order to calm their nerves. Sometimes, they also have to care for patients who have an adverse reaction after their blood is drawn.

Types of Phlebotomy Skills

Phlebotomists require a wide variety of skills. Some of these are hard skills, such as knowing how to perform certain medical procedures and dexterity for using equipment efficiently. Others are soft skills, such as compassion for anxious patients.

Attention to Detail

Phlebotomists usually have a constant flow of patients throughout the day. They need to be precise when drawing blood and labeling and keeping track of samples.

  • Calculating the Quantity of Blood Needed
  • Decontaminating the Puncture Site
  • Documenting All Procedures
  • Following Infection Control Guidelines
  • Locating Appropriate Veins for Blood Collection
  • Maintain Specimen Integrity
  • Preparing Specimens for Transport to the Laboratory

Communication

Phlebotomists need to be able to clearly explain procedures to patients, and listen to their questions and concerns. Many patients will be nervous, so clearly explaining what is going to happen will put patients at ease. Strong verbal communication skills are critical.

  • Oral Communication
  • Nonverbal Communication
  • Active Listening
  • Explaining the Process of Extracting Samples
  • Instructing Patients Regarding Proper Urine Collection
  • Persuasion
  • Writing Reports, Correspondence, and Policy

Data Entry

Most hospitals and doctors’ offices require phlebotomists to enter patient and specimen information in a medical record database on the computer. Having data entry skills and experience is a big plus for a phlebotomist.

  • Data Management
  • Accuracy
  • Computer Skills
  • Microsoft Office Suite
  • Data Management Software
  • Information Management

Dexterity

Physical dexterity (or motor skills) is critical for a phlebotomist. Phlebotomists have to work with their hands to handle equipment and draw blood. They need to be able to draw blood quickly and efficiently, with minimal discomfort for patients.

  • Close Vision
  • Hand-eye Coordination
  • Working Quickly
  • Performing Chemical Tests
  • Promoting Workplace Safety

Empathy

Phlebotomists need to have strong interpersonal skills. In particular, they need to be able to empathize with and show concern and care for patients who are nervous. Empathy will help a phlebotomist interact successfully with patients and their families.

  • Calming Anxious Patients
  • Customer Service
  • Emotional Intelligence
  • Interpersonal Skills
  • Patience
Learn More about the Phlebotomy Technician Program:

    Nurses Nurture Their Emotional Health

    Article Shared from TravelNursing.com By Jennifer Larson, contributor “How are you feeling?” If the truthful answer to this question is something along the lines of

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    Why BSNs are Important

    Article shared from TravelNursing.com Cost vs. reward still a factor for BSN-prepared nurses By Debra Wood, RN, contributor When the Institute of Medicine (IOM) released

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    8 Fast-growing Travel Nurse Specialties

    This article is sourced from TravelNursing.com. With a nursing shortage compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has driven thousands of nurses from the bedside, many

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    Congratulations Sumner College Graduate – Prolyn

    PROLYN’S STORY “Prior to enrolling at Sumner College’s Medical Assisting program, I was a psychology student who was extremely interested in medicine. I wanted to

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    Congratulations Sumner College Graduate – Alora

    ALORA’S STORY “Prior to enrolling at Sumner College, I was working as an EMT and a CNA.  I really loved the work I was doing,

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    Congratulations Sumner College Graduate – Tina

    TINA’S STORY “I had been working in real estate for 20 years when I decided to take my excellent, customer service skills into the medical

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    Congratulations Sumner College Graduate – Caroline

    CAROLINE’S STORY “I originally began my healthcare career working as a CNA/Medication Technician. I really enjoy helping others, especially the elderly. I wanted to expand

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    Pursuing a career as an RN?

    How to Become a Registered Nurse Registered nurses must be able to effectively communicate with patients to understand their concerns and assess their health conditions.

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    Next Generation NCLEX-RN

    With new changes to the NCLEX going into effect in April, it is imperative students and educators are prepared as the nursing shortage continues to

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    Congratulations Sumner College Graduate – Ryan

    RYAN’S STORY “I started out working as a personal trainer but knew becoming a nurse was my ultimate goal.  Helping people has always been the

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    Congratulations Sumner College Graduate – Julianne

    JULIANNE’S STORY “Previously, I was working as a CNA at an adult family home. I wanted to increase my skill set and employment opportunities, so

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    Congratulations Sumner College Graduate – Sydnee

    SYDNEE’S STORY “Before apply to Sumner College’s ADN program, I had completed their LPN program and was working at an assisted living facility. I’ve wanted

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    Congratulations Sumner College Graduate – Gloria

    GLORIA’S STORY “Before attending Sumner College’s Medical Assisting program, I was employed as a Clinical Specialist for VeiMed Healthcare.  Since I can remember, I have

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    Congratulations Sumner College Graduate – Lowell

    LOWELL’S STORY “Before applying to Sumner College, I was working in Residential Construction. I really like to help people. I chose Sumner College because of

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    Congratulations Sumner College Graduate – Camila

    CAMILA’S STORY "Before applying to Sumner College’s ADN program, I was working as a Medical Assistant at The Vancouver Clinic. I really wanted to expand

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    Sumner College’s NEW Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing

    PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Sumner College has launched its new Bachelor of Science in Nursing program — featuring a Clinical Simulation Lab and a new

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    January Student of the Month: Hamza Bagala, LPN

    Hamza was selected by Sumner College faculty and staff for the January Student of the Month. Some of the reasons was was selected include: "Hamza

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    2023 Top Paying Nursing Jobs

    Article Shared from DiversityNursing.com  Whether you are considering a career in Nursing or are a Nurse looking to switch pathways, something to consider is salary. Many factors

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    Nurses Secure The Spot For Most Trusted Profession 22nd Time In A Row

    Article shared from DiversityNursing.com. The Gallup polls are in and for more than two decades, Nurses have achieved the highest ethics rating from Americans. According to the findings, the

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    Travel Phlebotomist Jobs Growing at a rate of 17% through 2029

    Content for this article is shared form AMN Healthcare | Club Staffing . Growth for Phlebotomy careers is much faster than the average for all

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    Where do Registered Nurses Work?

    RN Work Environment Registered nurses work in many settings, from schools to doctors' offices. Registered nurses held about 3.1 million jobs in 2021. The largest

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    Presidents Day

    Sumner College is closed today in honor of Presidents Day.

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    February 18th is Critical Care Transport Nurses Day

    The Air & Surface Transport Nurses Association sponsors the annual Critical Care Transport Nurses Day which takes place on February 18th each year. This day

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    Bachelor of Science in Nursing | Info Sessions

    Interested in learning more about the BSN program at Sumner College? Schedule a FREE BSN Info Session online at www.sumnercollege.edu. Reserve your spot today -

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing at Sumner College

    Sumner College now offers a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing! The Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing Program is the only program in Oregon

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    Happy Valentine’s Day from Sumner College! Gift ideas for Valentine’s Day to honor the nurses in your life

    Best Valentine’s Day Gifts for Nurses Full Time Nurse's February 2nd blog has some suggested ideas for honoring the nurse in your life for Valentine's

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    Ambulatory Care Nursing Week is February 6-12

    Ambulatory Care Nurses are critical thinkers, leaders, communicators, listeners, courageous, caregivers, and so much more. Join us to celebrate and support them! This celebration takes

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    What Color Tubes Are Used for Which Tests in Phlebotomy

    Tube Colors And What They Mean The various tube colors phlebotomists use denote specific types of draws. The tube color refers to the color of

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    Registered Nursing – Occupational Outlook

    The field of nursing is an occupation that has exploded in recent years and is poised for continued impressive growth. According to the Bureau of

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn

    Welcome to Sumner College – February 6th Nursing Classes Start Today!

    Today we welcome the new students enrolled in Sumner College's February 6th cohorts for Registered Nursing, Practical Nursing and RN-BSN.

    Share at FacebookShare at TwitterShare at PinterestShare at LinkedIn