Liz Alexander, a phlebotomist working for the Norfolk and Norwich NHS Trust at the University Hospital.

Phlebotomist

Answers supplied by Liz Alexander, a phlebotomist working for Norfolk & Norwich NHS Trust at the University Hospital in Colney Lane. The Trust employs more than 5,000 people and last year treated more than 500,000 patients. On average the hospital undertakes 15,000 pathology tests and uses 66 pints of blood in its operating theatres daily.

What does the job entail?
To collect blood samples from both inpatients and outpatients in accordance with agreed trust policies ensuring blood samples are delivered safely to pathology in an agreed time limit. This may include taking samples from babies, children and adults. You often need to talk to and reassure patients whilst concentrating on taking blood samples. There is a small amount of paperwork and you may need to use a computer to generate blood requests made by medical staff.

What skills and qualifications are needed?
Although no formal qualifications are needed, good oral and written communication skills, the ability to work as a team member and to use your own initiative are essential. Nursing or healthcare experience, good customer skills and knowledge of computers would be desirable.

What type of person will fit in?
You need to enjoy working with people. Those who can work under pressure and enjoy a challenge will enjoy this job, and it is important to have a sense of humour. A sense of diplomacy is needed as there can be difficult situations to deal with when taking blood.

What are the pluses and minuses of the job?
On the plus side there is a great deal of job satisfaction, and it can be a real pleasure meeting and talking to patients. It is also very rewarding being an invaluable member of a team working well together. On the minus side the pay is not high, and you will always be working to a time limit. You may also be required to work at weekends.

What opportunities exist for career progression?
There is an opportunity of taking NVQ level 3 in care. This can be an entry requirement for nursing and can be taken while working in post. The hospital has an in-house NVQ department. Each member of staff has a personal development plan and all avenues for further education are explored when assessing a plan.

What can I expect to earn?
The pay scale for a phlebotomist ranges from £9,929-£12,343 depending on experience, plus weekend enhancements.

Any hints on getting a job in this area?
Probably the best place to start would be contacting the phlebotomy co-ordinator at your local hospital. Watch out for advertisements in the local press, keep an eye on hospital notice boards and visit their websites for current vacancies and recruitment details.