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July 18, 2022
Blood is a vital fluid for human life. It flows throughout the body, transporting oxygen, antibodies, and vital nutrients. You might be surprised to know that two parts of the body do not contain any blood. These are your corneas — the eyes’ transparent coverings. Instead of blood, they obtain oxygen directly from tears.
There are many times in your life when you may need to give a blood sample. For example, if you are having an annual physical, if you are experiencing unusual symptoms, or if you are undergoing medical treatment. When you do have a blood draw, the sample will be taken by a phlebotomist.
A phlebotomy technician is a medical professional who is trained to draw blood and prepare the specimen for testing. A mobile phlebotomist comes to your house to draw blood. In this article, we will review the role of mobile phlebotomists and explain how they can help you.
Phlebotomy refers to the procedure of taking a sample of blood from a vein to test the sample in a laboratory. This type of specimen collection is used in healthcare for several reasons such as:
Usually, a certified phlebotomist collects blood samples using venipuncture — drawing blood from a vein. Sometimes, however, they may use finger sticks, or in the case of pediatric care, heel sticks.
Often, phlebotomists work in medical offices, hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, diagnostic medical laboratories, or blood donation centers. There are also mobile phlebotomist jobs that allow phlebotomist technicians to come to your home to collect blood samples.
A mobile phlebotomist, also known as a traveling phlebotomist, is trained and licensed to travel around assigned areas of the United States to collect blood samples and prepare them for lab analysis. They are specially trained in drawing blood from a vein.
When a mobile phlebotomist, such as a Getlabs specialist arrives at your home, they will first check your ID and ask you a few questions about your current state of health. After seating you comfortably in a chair, they will examine your arm to find a suitable vein. They will then swab the area with a sterile wipe and insert a fine needle into your vein. A tube is attached to collect your blood draw. Once the sample has been collected, your specialist will remove the needle and apply a small bandage to the puncture site. This test is usually completed within five minutes.
As well as collecting specimen samples, mobile phlebotomists also have the following roles:
You may need a mobile phlebotomy service if your doctor has ordered one or more blood screenings or you feel you need to have a blood specimen collected for a specific test. In either case, you may prefer a phlebotomist to come to your home because:
Once your blood sample has been collected, your Getlabs phlebotomist will carefully label it with your name and patient ID number. They will then take it to our partner lab of your choice; either LabCorp or Quest Diagnostics.
Once at the lab, a technician will analyze your sample in different ways depending on which type of test has been ordered. For example, your blood may be analyzed using a complete blood count (CBC), which checks for blood abnormalities and disorders and also does a count of your red and white blood cells. Once the analysis is complete, your results will be passed on to your physician or posted on your patient portal.
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about phlebotomy:
Often, you will not need to prepare, but in some cases, you will need to fast – avoid eating and drink only water – for up to 12 hours before your blood draw. Your doctor will advise you if you need to prepare. If you are uncertain, consult a healthcare practitioner.
When a mobile phlebotomist comes to your home, you will need to confirm your ID and you may have to show them your current insurance ID card. You should also tell them if you have had any previous issues with blood draws, such as fainting, bruising, dizziness, or swelling.
Depending on your healthcare practitioner and the lab that is preparing your results, you may get a call from your doctor, or you may access your results through your patient portal. **
It is quite normal to feel a little nervous about having a blood sample taken, particularly if this is your first time. You can rest assured that Getlabs mobile phlebotomists are trained to make your experience as comfortable and quick as possible.
A new, sterile needle is used each time blood is drawn. You will see them remove the cover before they take your sample. After use, the needle is stored in a special container and then disposed of safely.
This is because your doctor ordered more than one test to be taken.
This will vary slightly depending on the lab, and the number and type of tests you are having. Generally, you will get your results within 2-3 business days.
Your mobile phlebotomist will usually complete your blood work within five minutes.
It takes between 4 months to a year to train to become a phlebotomist. Training includes physiology, anatomy, techniques for blood work, communication skills, patient care, and practical training. Phlebotomists may work full-time or part-time.
A mobile phlebotomy service can be very helpful if you cannot or do not want to go to a clinic or lab to have your blood sample drawn.
At Getlabs, we take great pride in providing a high-quality, safe, friendly, and confidential service, that’s why our patients love us so much. Book your Getlabs mobile phlebotomist online today with our online scheduling service.
We look forward to bringing your healthcare to you.
This page is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute the provision of medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice regarding any of the tests and conditions referenced above are advised to consult with a licensed clinician. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider regarding a medical condition and do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of any information on this page. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or go to the nearest urgent care center or hospital.
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