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What are the best kind of patients as a phlebotomist?

I'm 19 years old currently enrolled in a technical college. I'm currently trying to get into the medical field :)

healthcare fall25 phlebotomy phlebotomist medicalassistant
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Donna’s Answer

It more so is about the experience you give them. When working with patients, it’s important to pay attention to both comfort and safety. I often have small talk. I chat about things like what they’re planning to do after the appointment, grab a bite nearby, or comment on the weather; it helps put them at ease.

For adults, one technique I used was to have them take a deep breath in, and then as I insert the needle, I tell them to blow it out. This helps them stay relaxed and can reduce discomfort. Be careful, though, some patients are prone to fainting, so you don’t want them to hold their breath too long.

It’s important to watch for warning signs: does the person look flushed, sweaty, fidgety, or nervous? If so, it may be safer to have them lie down for the blood draw.

With children, patience and distraction are key, you should always have an extra person present to assist, even if the child seems calm. I’d ask if they know what a butterfly looks like, then say, “My butterfly is going to fly and land right here, but it’s going to feel like a tiny mosquito.” This helps distract them, reduces fear, and makes the experience less intimidating. Depending on the age and child, I would sometimes I would do a count and then tell them to say "ouch" as I am putting the needle in. This usually worked pretty well.

Another thing to keep in mind is if a patient or parent seems agitated, irritated, or has a negative disposition, they may have received bad news or an unexpected diagnosis, never take it personally.

Take care and good luck!
Donna

Donna recommends the following next steps:

Approach every patient with a calm and friendly tone.
Always observe for signs of anxiety or discomfort and adapt your approach.
Use conversation or light distractions to put patients at ease.
Maintain safety first, especially with children or patients prone to fainting. Clear communication is very important.
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much for the advice. Kay
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Kathleen’s Answer

It's very important to approach every patient in a friendly, confident, polite manner. If they tell you they have issues or appear very nervous, it's best to have them lie down bgore you begin. You don't want them to go down when you have the needle in their arm. Listen to them. They may have experiences that you need to know. For example, I know that my hand veins look great, but they blow, so when I need an IV I tell them about it, politely. Also, if they yell or cringe in pain...stop. And never dig around. Much damage can occur. Don't hesitate to ask for help.
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Joyce’s Answer

I started in the nursing home as unit secretary, the transferred to the lab and was taught on the job.....how to draw babies, kids, elderly people. It really want that hard. As far as the best people to get. Well........its not our choice. You can only hope for people that have an excellent vascular structure. In other words, LARGE veins. You normally can't pick the people youre going draw, but if you can, youre lucky. The lo ger you do it, the more proficient you will become.
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