How to Answer: At what point would you ask a co-worker or supervisor to help you with a blood draw?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Phlebotomist job interview.
17. At what point would you ask a co-worker or supervisor to help you with a blood draw?
How to Answer
No one wants to say that they can't get the blood or stuck twice already and can't get it. However, it is always better to set pride aside and ask a supervisor or co-worker to assist. Two sets of eyes are always better than one. Also, make sure you know your facility's guidelines before you begin a draw. That way, if you think you may need someone to step in, you can ask them before the patient becomes too upset because of multiple failed attempts.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"I usually will ask a co-worker or supervisor who is more experienced with pediatric draws if I am unable to obtain a specimen after the first try. I feel confident in my abilities, but I know that pediatric patients are often afraid of the procedure, and if they have to be stuck more than once, it can be traumatizing."
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"I usually will not attempt a venipuncture more than twice without asking someone to observe and help me. Sometimes one person may be able to feel a vein a little differently, and if we can get the procedure done correctly with as little anxiety to the patient as possible, that is what is best."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"If I know that a patient is more familiar with one of my co-workers and prefers to have that person draw his blood, I always try to accommodate. Also, I like to make myself very familiar with a facility's policies regarding how many attempts a phlebotomist should make before asking another person to step in. It's all about making the patients comfortable and getting the blood drawn to perform the necessary tests."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021