Phlebotomist
Phlebotomists collect blood samples from patients, and send them off for analysis and testing.
- Starter salary£25,000 a year
- Experienced£31,000 a year
- Typical hours37 to 42 a week
What you'll do
As a phlebotomist, you could:
- explain the medical procedure to patients and reassure them
- insert a hypodermic needle into a vein to draw off blood into a tube
- apply dressings
- label and deliver blood samples
- complete records and enter data on a computer system
Working environment
You could work in an NHS or private hospital.
You may need to wear protective clothing.
Skills and knowledge you'll need
You'll need:
- customer service skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- sensitivity and understanding
- the ability to work well with others
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- knowledge of English language
- a desire to help people
- administration skills
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
How to become a phlebotomist
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
College
There are no set entry requirements to become a trainee phlebotomist, although it may help to have a college qualification in healthcare or health and social care.
Courses in health and social care often include work placements. This would give you practical experience, which could help you to get a job afterwards.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
Apprenticeship
You could apply to do a Healthcare Science Assistant Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship, specialising in phlebotomy.
You could also do a Healthcare Support Worker Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship, then apply for a trainee role in phlebotomy.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
Work
You could start as a healthcare assistant and work your way up through training and promotion.
Volunteering
Volunteering in the NHS is a good way to get work experience in healthcare. This can be helpful when you apply for jobs or training.
You can also find opportunities through The National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) and Do it .
Direct application
You could apply directly to work as a phlebotomist. There are no set entry requirements, though it may be helpful if you have at least 2 GCSEs and a first aid certificate.
Some employers may prefer you to have a qualification in healthcare or health and social care.
Restrictions and requirements
You'll need to:
- pass enhanced background checks
- have a first aid certificate
You may need a driving licence for some jobs.
Career path and progression
With experience, you could be a senior phlebotomist and have responsibility for more complex work. You could also become a team leader or manager.
Skills and experience in phlebotomy can also be useful for work with the NHS Blood and Transplant Service .
Career tips
You would be expected to have an understanding of how the NHS values would apply in your work.
Professional and industry bodies
You can join the National Association of Phlebotomists and Institute of Biomedical Science for networking and training opportunities.
Guides for this industry
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