Final answer:
A phlebotomist has four main responsibilities: performing venipuncture and capillary sticks for blood collection, arterial sticks for blood gas analysis, and the proper handling and processing of blood samples post-collection.
Step-by-step explanation:
Phlebotomist Job-Related Duties
Phlebotomists are trained professionals in the healthcare industry, and their primary responsibility is to draw blood from patients for various tests, transfusions, donations, or research. Here are four key responsibilities a phlebotomist typically holds:
Venipuncture procedures: Performing venipunctures to collect blood from surface veins in the arm is a fundamental task for phlebotomists.
Capillary sticks: For small quantities of blood, phlebotomists are expected to conduct capillary sticks on fingers, earlobes, or the heels of infants.
Arterial sticks: When blood gas analysis is required, phlebotomists must skillfully collect blood from an artery.
Handling and processing of blood samples: After blood collection, phlebotomists are responsible for correctly labeling, handling, and possibly processing blood samples for laboratory analysis or preparing them for transfusion and storage.
Phlebotomists must hold certification, often provided by the American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians, and work closely with medical technologists, medical laboratory technicians, and blood bank technology specialists who perform a variety of tests and manage the collected blood.