What is within the scope of practice of a phlebotomy technician?

The scope of practice for a phlebotomy technician is primarily focused on the collection and handling of blood specimens necessary for laboratory testing. This includes ensuring that the correct volume of blood is drawn from patients, following protocols to maintain safety and cleanliness, and labeling samples properly for analysis. Phlebotomy technicians are trained to collect blood from various sites and can work with both venous and capillary blood draws, always aiming for accuracy and efficiency to facilitate accurate diagnostic results.

In defining the scope of practice, it is also important to recognize that other options, such as CPR, diagnosing medical conditions, or handling medical emergencies, fall outside the specialized training and duties of a phlebotomy technician. These responsibilities are typically assigned to other healthcare professionals, such as nurses or doctors, who have the requisite training and certification to perform such tasks safely and effectively.