A phlebotomist is a trained healthcare professional who specializes in drawing blood from patients of all ages, including pediatric, adult, and geriatric patients. Phlebotomists play an important role in the medical field by collecting and preparing blood specimens for laboratory testing, diagnosis, treatment monitoring, and blood donations.

During training, phlebotomy students learn how to safely and properly collect blood samples using techniques such as:

• Venipuncture (drawing blood from a vein)
• Finger sticks and heel sticks
• Point-of-care testing procedures, including hemoglobin and PT/INR testing

Blood testing is one of the most commonly performed medical procedures and is essential in helping healthcare providers diagnose, monitor, and treat a wide range of health conditions.