Phlebotomist

A phlebotomist is a medical professional trained to perform blood draws. Phlebotomists collect and prepare blood for testing so it can be analyzed in a medical laboratory. They also collect blood for donation, perform blood transfusions, and administer intravenous therapies. 

Phlebotomists work in a variety of places, including but not limited to:

• Clinical laboratories
• Pharmacies
• Hospitals
• Community health centers
• Assisted living facilities and nursing homes
• Doctor’s offices
• Blood donation centers and blood drives
• Insurance companies
• Scientific research 

Hazards include:

Biological hazards 

• Bloodborne pathogens (such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)) and other infectious agents through blood
• Bodily fluids
• Exposure to airborne illnesses (viral or bacterial) from patients  

Chemical Hazards

• Exposure to hazardous drugs or substances when administering to patients, including chemotherapy. Follow the precautions on any medical pamphlet or the manufacturer’s instructions
• Formaldehyde (used for specimen preservation)
• Disinfectant cleaning agents and cleaning products
• Latex (found in gloves and equipment)
• Dermatitis, irritant contact

Ergonomic Hazards

• Lifting or moving patients and equipment
• Carpal Tunnel
• Physical injuries, such as back strain, from standing for long periods of time
• Shift work
• Fatigue 

Psychological Hazards

• Uncooperative, agitated or aggressive patients
• High stress 

Safety Hazards  

• Needlestick and sharps injuries
• Slips and trips 
• Working alone with patients

Ensure that you are trained and informed about how to avoid the various health and safety hazards of your job. 

• Hand washing, routine practices, and other measures are extremely important for the reduction of infections. Be sure to use moisturizers to prevent your skin from drying.
• Learn proper techniques to avoid needlestick injuries.
• Learn safe patient lifting techniques - create a safe patient handling program.
• Understanding other additional measures for reducing exposure to infectious diseases, such as COVID-19.
• Learn safe lifting techniques, such as manual material handling and patient handling techniques
• Be aware of your surroundings to avoid trips and falls.
• Follow or establish safety procedures for working alone, or for avoiding working alone wherever possible.
• Working Alone with Patients 
• Personal Protective Equipment, like gloves, respirators, masks, and safety glasses
• WHMIS Training
• Review the safety data sheet (SDS) for hazardous products