30 Phlebotomist Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Phlebotomist interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
How to Answer
Employers realize that there is life outside of work. Getting to know employees and potential employees and what interests them allows employers to develop a relationship with them. Share what you like. You can describe a place you have always wanted to visit or a place you have visited but would love to return to. This is also an opportunity for you to get to know the employer. Ask questions to show your interest in building a relationship.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"You know, I've been so caught up in school and work that I haven't really taken the time to create a bucket list of things I'd like to do. When I was younger, I always wanted to visit Australia. I think that will be one of the first places I would go."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"Without a doubt, I would go to Italy. I have always wanted to travel, and Italy will be one of the first places I go to once I have time to go and really experience it. Have you ever been to another country?"
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"When I was younger, I went on a mission trip to Brazil. I have always wanted to return and spend time with the missionaries who are still there. I came back with such an appreciation for the opportunities and conveniences that we have here. What about you? Have you ever traveled abroad?"
Written by Darby Faubion
2. How do you handle stressful situations?
How to Answer
Stress management will be essential for you to handle tight deadlines, long hours, and demanding patients. Before answering this question, think of some tools that have helped you manage your stress. Share any helpful techniques that you use every day to remain clear-headed in some of the most stressful scenarios.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"When I am under pressure on the job, I focus on the task at hand and do my best not to get distracted."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"I have learned not to take words or actions of stressed patients personally. Even when I'm feeling rushed or overwhelmed by a deadline and being pulled in too many directions, I can ground myself knowing that I'm providing the best customer service and care for my patients the best way that I can."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"I think we all experience stress on different levels and from various triggers. For me, being self-aware has played a big role in my personal stress management. If I have things that I know need to be done on a specific day, I try to create a list and prioritize the order in which those things should be done. I also try to factor in time for things that may be unexpected, for instance, an emergency blood draw, and try to stay focused on each assignment. Learning to stay focused is a big stress reliever in and of itself."
Written by Darby Faubion
3. Do you anticipate any changes in your life within the next 12-24 months that may cause you to have to relocate or leave this job?
How to Answer
Knowing what goals you have and any changes you anticipate in your life will allow the interviewer to evaluate two things: (1) what positions are available that won't disrupt your plans, and (2) if you are interested in having a long-term relationship within the company. Either way, being upfront and honest is always appreciated.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"I recently completed a phlebotomy course and became certified. I hope to find a position that will allow me to work long-term. I do not anticipate any significant changes that would affect that."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"I recently became engaged. Although we have not set a date yet, we have agreed to wait twelve months before the marriage. My fiance just passed the Bar exam here and has been offered an opportunity to join an existing law firm. Presently, we plan to stay where we are and build a career, not just work a job. Also, we do not plan on having children for at least two years after our marriage. We both feel that being able to become established in our careers and save for our future would be the responsible thing to do before starting a family."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"I have no plans of relocating, and all of my family lives close by. I have traveled before and have come to a place in my life where I want to find a stationary position and grow with a company."
Written by Darby Faubion
4. Can you think of a time that you had a disagreement with a boss or co-worker, and if so, how was it resolved?
How to Answer
Any time you work with someone else, there is a chance of disagreeing about something at one time or another. The interviewer knows this. It's human nature for people to have their own opinions. What is important to the interviewer is whether or not you are willing to compromise and work through difficult situations with your co-workers. Being unwilling to compromise or find alternative solutions to a dispute can affect everyone on the team, even if it is indirectly. Share a personal experience and its resolution.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"I am a pretty easy-going person and do my best to avoid conflict. Like anyone else, I am sure there have been times that a co-worker and I have had a difference of opinion, but there has never been an instance that the disagreement was something that would have interfered with my work."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"I believe if we think about it, each of us could remember at least one disagreement with a friend or co-worker. Although I consider myself to be pretty easy-going, I am also very passionate about my patients and the care they receive. I have been aware of disagreements between other co-workers but really like to think of myself as a peacekeeper. I feel like professional people should be able to discuss things logically and come to an agreement that is satisfactory for everyone involved."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"I think the most common disagreement between myself and others has involved our personal feelings about how healthcare should be carried out. However, while our opinions are important, I have learned that plans of care are designated by strict guidelines and with the input of everyone on the care team and the patient. Learning to respect those guidelines and patient wishes usually resolves issues that arise."
Written by Darby Faubion
5. What is an ANA used for?
How to Answer
There are several different types of lab tests. Knowing what these tests are and what they could indicate is an important skill for a phlebotomist. Share your knowledge with the interviewer.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"An ANA helps to show if a patient has a disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"An ANA or antinuclear antibody test is used to help indicate autoimmune disorders, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"The antinuclear antibody (ANA) test is done to help doctors diagnose an autoimmune disorder. An autoimmune disorder is best described as cells of the body that mistake other cells as foreign and attack those cells. One example is rheumatoid arthritis."
Written by Darby Faubion
6. What is the purpose of a platelet aggregation test, and what color tube would you use to collect the specimen?
How to Answer
A platelet aggregation test checks how well a patient's platelets clump together to form blood clots. If platelets are not functioning properly, they could hemorrhage to death if they experience a traumatic injury. Share your knowledge of why this test is important with the interviewer.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"This test is done to check the ability of platelets to form clumps and produce a clot. The specimen is collected in a light blue topped tube."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"Aggregation is a term used to describe the clumping together of platelets which is essential for proper clotting when a person experiences some cut or another wound that causes bleeding. A light blue top tube is used."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"A physician may order an aggregation test if the patient is exhibiting symptoms of a bleeding disorder, abnormal platelet function, or low platelet count. Symptoms may include excessive bleeding, excessive bruising, bleeding from the nose or gums, or excessive menstrual bleeding. The test will show whether or not platelets are properly clumping together to form clots. The blood sample is collected in a light blue topped tube containing buffered 3.2% sodium citrate, which is then mixed gently immediately upon filling."
Written by Darby Faubion
7. What is PKU. and when is it normally diagnosed?
How to Answer
PKU is a rare genetic condition that affects metabolism. A person with PKU can't create the enzyme needed to break down phenylalanine, which is found in protein. A PKU test is a routine test performed on all babies in the US. The interviewer wants to know that you understand the importance of this test.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"PKU is a disease that causes a baby's inability to break down phenylalanine, which is found in protein. It causes problems with metabolism."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"PKU is one of the tests done as part of a newborn's routine health screening. It helps determine the presence of phenylalanine in the blood, which should be broken down if metabolism is normal."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"Every baby in the United States is tested for PKU as part of newborn screenings. It is a genetic condition that affects a baby's metabolism, namely the ability to break down phenylalanine, a protein. Amino Acids, which are the building blocks of protein, regulate all metabolic processes within the human body. If PKU builds up in the blood, it can cause damage. While there is no cure, there is treatment."
Written by Darby Faubion
8. What is an HIV test window?
How to Answer
Understanding concepts such as test window and what it means is crucial when working with blood. The interviewer wants to know what knowledge you have of HIV and what may happen during this 'test window' time.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"HIV test window is the time between infection with HIV until the virus actually shows up in a blood test."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"The HIV test window is used to describe the time between when the patient becomes infected with HIV until the appearance of the detectable antibodies of the virus."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"The HIV test window is a period of about 14-21 days, but in some cases up to 12 weeks. This is when a blood sample from an HIV patient will show no sign of HIV, meaning they will test negative for the infection. After the HIV window period, the virus can be detected in a blood sample."
Written by Darby Faubion
9. What are some ways to avoid mistakes when drawing blood?
How to Answer
It is imperative to avoid mistakes when drawing blood. The interviewer wants to know that you understand safety measures to take to prevent mistakes. Share your knowledge.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"Identifying a patient by having them, or a parent, tell me their name and date of birth is the first way I can think of to avoid a mistake."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"I understand that avoiding mistakes is important and believe following the simple rule of verifying information is the best way to do so."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"There are several ways to avoid making mistakes. The most logical and easiest are identifying a patient by having them state their name and date of birth and verifying that the name on the patient's armband matches what the patient says and the orders I have."
Written by Darby Faubion
10. Do you have a preference of what age group you like to work with when performing venipunctures?
How to Answer
While phlebotomists usually don't get to specify a particular age group they would like to work with, some facilities have large patient populations. Because of this, a supervisor may assign a phlebotomist to work in a specific area, for instance, pediatrics or oncology. This is your chance to voice your opinion about what you want. However, always remember to leave the door open by saying you are willing to work where you are needed. This shows the interviewer you are willing to be a part of the team.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"I would have to say, at this point, I prefer adults. I have performed venipunctures on various age groups and am willing to work with anyone, but I feel the most comfortable with adults at this time."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"I am comfortable with any age group. If I were given a choice, I would definitely say that I would like to work with pediatrics. I know several people who would rather not work with children, but I love kids and think I would really enjoy caring for them."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"I have been a phlebotomist for a while now, and I have to say that I have no real preference of an age group to work with. There are easy sticks with neonates and difficult sticks with adults, just like there are difficult sticks with newborns and easy ones with adults. I feel confident with my skills and am willing to work where I am needed."
Written by Darby Faubion
11. What do you think are some characteristics of a good phlebotomist?
How to Answer
When an interviewer asks a question like this, they usually try to see what characteristics or traits you may be 'bringing to the game,' so to speak. When you answer this question, try to think about what you would like to see in a person who is providing care for you or a loved one.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"A phlebotomist should definitely be kind and show genuine concern for patients. Being sick can be a very stressful situation, and showing concern often causes patients to feel more comfortable."
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"I think a phlebotomist should be kind and sympathetic. Needing to have lab work done can be frightening for some people. and if I can make my patient feel at ease, I think that is an important characteristic."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"I believe a phlebotomist should be professional but approachable. Dealing with sick people can be very stressful and requires a professional approach, but not so much that it leaves a patient feeling ill at ease."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
12. What is something that scares you about being a phlebotomist?
How to Answer
Any job that involves caring for others can have scary moments. Although a phlebotomist may not have a risk of a medication error, there are still things that can happen that can cause one to feel worried. Admitting things that cause you to be uneasy is not a sign of weakness but rather a sign that you know things you may need to focus on. The interviewer will appreciate that.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"I think the fear of being stuck by a contaminated needle is the thing that scares me the most. It is part of the job and requires extra attention to detail to be secure."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"I have always had a fear of a patient being harmed if a needle broke off into their skin, perhaps if they are combative."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"There are a few things that make me feel uneasy when I think of them. First and foremost is the risk of exposure to infectious diseases, if a contaminated needle sticks a patient or me. Also, the risk of a patient being injured if a needle is broken due to them moving around."
Written by Darby Faubion
13. If you were drawing blood and using a light blue top specimen collection tube, what kind of test is being performed, and what are some things one should know about using this tube to perform this test?
How to Answer
Understanding which tubes are used for specific tests is crucial for a phlebotomist. Although someone who is just beginning a career in phlebotomy may not be able to answer a question with a lot of 'in-depth' information, a general understanding is expected before becoming certified.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"Light blue tops are used when a patient's clotting time needs to be checked, such as someone who is taking an anticoagulant, like Coumadin."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"A light blue top is used when drawing blood to test coagulation, or clotting, times."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"Light blue topped containers contain sodium citrate, which prevents coagulation by binding to calcium. This tube is used when we need to check the actual clotting time of a patient's blood. A blue top should never be drawn first, and if it is the only tube required for the tests ordered, a vial of blood should be drawn first and then discarded. The tube should be inverted 3-4 times only. This tube should never be underfilled or mixed vigorously."
Written by Darby Faubion
14. How would you deal with an angry patient, and why?
How to Answer
Knowing how you will handle a difficult situation will tell the interviewer if you have the right attitude for this job. Being a phlebotomist means you have to deal with people from different backgrounds and with varying personalities. Give the interviewer an example of how you would handle an angry patient.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"I think it is important to try and find out what has made the patient mad. If it is something such as not being called as quickly as they had expected, a simple explanation regarding what caused the delay may help calm them."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"I believe acting calmly and speaking rationally is a great way to calm someone who is angry. I try to be the voice of reason without making someone feel that I am belittling them."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"There are a couple of different approaches, and safety is, of course, the most important thing to consider. If I were to try and perform venipuncture on someone who is angry, they could become combative, resulting in injury to them, me, or both of us. I feel the best approach is to ask what has made the patient upset and try to resolve the underlying cause, if at all possible."
Written by Darby Faubion
15. What makes you think you will be successful at our organization?
How to Answer
Rather than just sharing how you have gone above and beyond expectations in the past, focus on how your qualities will help you meet and exceed expectations with their organization. Discuss the reasons why you will be great at this job. Talk about your qualifications and skills that will help you to do this job well. If you can, match your strengths to the requirements outlined in the job description.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"I feel I have the education and skills necessary to become an asset to your organization, and I believe, given the opportunity, I can prove that."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"I know I will be successful in this role because I have been working in this industry for five years with great training and mentorship. I have a solid understanding of X, Y, and Z (skills listed in the job description). Also, I have all of my updated certifications as outlined in your job description. I am well-prepared for this next step in my career."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"I believe my success with your organization will come from having all of the hard skills that you are looking for, whether learned in school or gained through work experience. I know all the key players in this region and stay informed of best practices."
Written by Darby Faubion
16. Give two examples of collection tubes and what type of tests they are used for.
How to Answer
When taking a phlebotomy course, one of the most important lessons is which color tube should be used for a specific type of test. The interviewer knows this and expects that you will have an understanding, as well. Share what you know with the interviewer.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"Two collection tubes are the Yellow Top, which is used for DNA testing and paternity testing and a Red Top, which is used for Immunology and Serology testing."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"There are several tube colors. Two examples are the light blue top, which are coagulation tests, such as patients who are taking Coumadin and a dark green top which is used for whole blood testing using heparin."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"There are a variety of tube colors used for blood collection. A few examples are the yellow & black top, which is used for microbiological testing, and the orange top which is used for STAT serum chemistries."
Written by Darby Faubion
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
18. What is a CMP?
How to Answer
The comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) is a blood test that gives doctors information about the body's fluid balance, levels of electrolytes like sodium and potassium, and how well the kidneys and liver are working. Describe to the interviewer your understanding of a CMP and what it includes.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"A CMP is a test that helps monitor the fluid and electrolytes within a patient's body. It is important to help determine if there is some type of imbalance, such as with blood sugar or calcium levels."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"A CMP is used to check a body's fluid and electrolyte balance. Calcium, sodium, and potassium are some of the levels that are checked with this test."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"A complete metabolic profile or CMP is used to check or monitor the fluid balance and electrolyte levels in a patient's body. Certain parts of the profile can indicate issues with how the kidney, liver, or pancreas are working. For instance, if alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and bilirubin are elevated, this can be a sign of a problem with the liver."
Written by Darby Faubion
19. Do you feel you are capable of being a good team player?
How to Answer
Unless you work in a job where you have no human contact or interaction, working well within a team is a crucial skill. Describe what makes you feel like you are a good team player to the interviewer. Give examples of when you worked as a team and what that experience was like.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"I definitely feel like I am capable of being a good team player. I am easy to get along with and am eager to learn from those with more experience. In healthcare, it is imperative to take a team approach to provide the best possible care for the patients we see."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"Yes, I do feel like I am capable of being a good team player. I enjoy working with others and worked as an EMT firefighter before I went to phlebotomy school. It is wonderful being part of a team that has similar goals of providing the best possible care to patients."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"I really value being a part of a team that works well together. I always put forth an effort to be a strong part of any team I am working with. I think one main key is to remember that none of us knows everything there is to know, and if we are respectful of another's knowledge or experience, it can make the team strong, as a whole."
Written by Darby Faubion
20. What are some things you think people notice about your personality?
How to Answer
Personality and character are two things that are closely related. For instance, someone with an honest character or good work ethic will tend to be more open about his or her beliefs as well as personal and professional expectations. The interviewer is looking for clues as to what character you may bring to the table, so to speak. It is important to remember, body language speaks volumes, and eye contact is a big indicator of your self-esteem. Be confident when you answer and make eye contact with the interviewer.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"I think people describe my personality as kind, and feel that I come across as someone who is easy to get to know."
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"I would describe my personality as approachable, light-hearted, and positive. I like to give more than I take and pride myself on being part of a team."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"I believe people who meet me soon find out that I am easy-going and fun to be around. I work hard and am passionate about the people I work with and for."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
21. What would you describe as your biggest weakness?
How to Answer
This is probably one of the most dreaded questions in a job interview. Answering this question requires self-evaluation and honesty. Remember, whatever weakness you decide to share, make sure it is not a key characteristic needed to perform your job as a phlebotomist. When describing your weakness, explain what steps you are taking to make it a strength.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"One of my weaknesses is that I often get nervous around people I don't know. I know we all do that to a certain degree, but it has become something that I am aware of. I now try to attend social activities where I know there are going to be opportunities to meet new people so that I can overcome social anxiety."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"I think one of my biggest weaknesses is that I can get sidetracked easily. I recognize that in myself and have made a conscious effort to plan my day as much as possible and to stay on target."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"My biggest weakness has got to be that I take on too many projects at once. While being involved and participating in various things is fun and can be good for a person, I tend to take on several things and leave some unfinished projects. I have begun to limit myself to only taking on a few projects at a time so that I can devote the necessary time to staying on task."
Written by Darby Faubion
22. Why did you choose a career as a phlebotomist?
How to Answer
There are many careers to choose from, and there is no right or wrong answer to this question. This is just an opportunity for the interviewer to get to know you. Describe your reasons and motivation to enter the field of phlebotomy.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"I have always wanted to work with people as a caregiver of some type. I felt like phlebotomy would give me a chance to do that and would also allow me to learn more about the healthcare field."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"I like working with people, but wasn't sure if a nursing career was what I wanted. I thought working as a phlebotomist would allow me to care for others while learning more about the healthcare industry."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"I actually started school in an unrelated field but really began to be interested in laboratory testing. I found phlebotomy and decided I would try this field and have never looked back!"
Written by Darby Faubion
23. What is an A1C test used for and what do the different results indicate?
How to Answer
The A1C test is a common blood test used to diagnose type 1 and type 2 diabetes and gauge how well a patient manages diabetes. Taking the time to know what a test is for, rather than simply drawing blood and sending it over to the lab, shows the interviewer that you have a true interest in your job as a phlebotomist.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"An A1C level helps determine if a patient has diabetes. It can show whether a person is pre-diabetic or actually has developed diabetes, depending on the level."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"An A1C level is used to help diagnose a patient with diabetes. An A1C level of 6.5 percent or higher on two separate occasions indicates that a patient has diabetes."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"An A1C level is used to determine if a patient has diabetes. A result of 6.5 percent or higher on two separate occasions indicates diabetes. A result between 5.7 and 6.4 percent is considered prediabetes, which indicates a high risk of developing diabetes. For most people who have previously diagnosed diabetes, an A1C level of 7 percent or less is a common treatment target."
Written by Darby Faubion
24. Why is a discard tube necessary when drawing a light blue top?
How to Answer
Understanding the order of the draw and why a discard tube is necessary is crucial to performing a phlebotomist's job. Explain your understanding of the necessity of a discard tube to the interviewer.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"A light blue top tube has to have a certain amount of blood in it for the test to be accurate. Using a discard tube helps to rid the tubing of any air in the tubing attached to the needle. Air could prevent the blue tube from being accurate."
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"Using a discard tube helps to empty any air of the butterfly tubing, which allows the light blue top to be filled with the appropriate amount of blood."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"A light-blue top tube that will be used for coagulation testing must be filled to completion. Under-filling the tube changes the ratio of blood to anticoagulant. This can affect the accuracy of coagulation tests that are performed using this specimen. If a winged blood collection device (butterfly) is used to collect a light-blue top tube for coagulation studies, a waste tube should be drawn first. If the air is not displaced from the tubing into a waste tube, it will be drawn into the tube used for testing and cause a short-fill of the tube. Less volume of blood in the tube alters the required blood to anticoagulant ratio needed for coagulation studies."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
25. Why would a prothrombin time be ordered?
How to Answer
Prothrombin is a protein present in blood plasma that is converted into active thrombin during coagulation. A PT, or prothrombin time/pro-time test measures the number of seconds it takes for a clot to form in a person's blood sample after reagents are added. The interviewer is looking for clues that you understand the reasons for ordering specific tests. Share your knowledge.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"A PT test, or prothrombin test, tells us if a patient's blood is clotting too fast or too slow."
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"A prothrombin time may be ordered to see how long it takes for a person's blood to clot. This can help diagnose clotting and bleeding disorders and can also help in monitoring whether anticoagulant therapy is within the therapeutic range."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"A prothrombin test, often called a PT or pro-time test, is performed to measure how quickly prothrombin is converted into active thrombin which produces the effect of blood clotting. This test is important to determine the risk of embolism and is used to determine therapeutic ranges of anticoagulants, such as Coumadin."
Written by Darby Faubion
26. What are some things to consider when drawing blood from a pediatric patient?
How to Answer
There could be several different answers for this question. Many people in the medical profession choose not to work with pediatric patients for various reasons. Phlebotomists are not given a 'specialty area' to work in, however. The interviewer wants to know that you are mindful that children may be difficult, at times, but that you are confident about working with them.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"Pediatric patients are usually afraid of needles, and some often fight when they know they have to have their blood drawn. Safety is one of the main things to consider; so, if a patient is combative, it is best to wait to draw his blood until he is calmed."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"One of the most important things to consider when drawing from a pediatric patient is making sure that a parent or legal guardian is present and gives consent."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"I can think of a few different factors to consider when performing a venipuncture on a child. First, and most importantly, a parent or guardian must sign consent for the procedure to be performed. If the patient is old enough to explain the procedure to, it is a good idea to explain what is going to be done and why, and to assure the patient that the procedure will only take a minute or two. Also educating a child as to why the test needs to be done at a level they can understand is often helpful."
Written by Darby Faubion
27. What are some issues you can think of that may hinder drawing blood in a geriatric patient?
How to Answer
Changes in geriatric patients may create some instances of difficulty with obtaining a blood sample. The interviewer wants to know that you can identify some factors that may influence the ease of performing venipuncture and what could be done to prevent a problem.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"I don't have a lot of experience with geriatric patients, but one thing I can think of that may be an issue is problems with the range of motion, possibly due to arthritis or some other disorder that makes it difficult for a patient to straighten their arm. This could make it difficult to find a good vein in the arm."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"One of the biggest problems I have run into has been an issue of loose skin and the difficulty that sometimes arises when trying to pull the skin taut enough to locate a vein."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"There are several issues that may hinder geriatric blood draws. If a patient is disoriented, they may feel afraid or threatened and become combative. This poses a threat not only to the patient but to the clinician, as well. Also, dehydration, especially in the elderly, can be a problem. Most geriatric patients have lost a bit of their adipose tissue, which makes the skin looser. A phlebotomist has to pull the skin taut to help veins become more visible. If a patient has loose skin and is dehydrated, this makes the draw even more difficult."
Written by Darby Faubion
28. When a venipuncture is performed, if there is no blood or the blood flow stops, what are some steps a phlebotomist may take to remedy this situation?
How to Answer
There are various reasons that a venipuncture may appear to be unsuccessful, and often, there are simple ways to 'fix the problem.' The interviewer wants to know that you can make a judgment call on how to proceed when a venipuncture doesn't seem to be producing blood flow. Share your knowledge.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"Sometimes changing the position of the needle or using a different tube can help the blood to flow correctly."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"There could be a couple of different reasons that blood doesn't flow properly into a collection tube. One of the most common is that the bevel of the needle is against a vein wall. Simply repositioning the needle could resolve this issue and allow blood to flow freely."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"While there are different reasons that blood flow may be impeded, there are also ways to try to correct the issue. The simplest effort would be to change the position of the needle, either by moving it forward slightly or pulling it back slightly, if it is suspected to have penetrated too far. There are also times that a vacutainer may not be sealed correctly, which may prevent blood from being pulled into the tube. Trying a new tube may resolve this issue. Also, if a tourniquet is too tight, it may suppress blood flow. We always want to try to resolve the issue without having to do a second puncture, but sometimes that is the only option left."
Written by Darby Faubion
29. What tests would you anticipate being done to check a patient's kidney function?
How to Answer
When an interviewer asks a question like this, he is trying to see how much knowledge you have obtained regarding tests and what each test may indicate. If you have an understanding of kidney function tests, share it with the interviewer. If you are not sure, say so, but explain how you will learn the correct answer.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"A creatinine test or a urea level could indicate improperly functioning kidneys."
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"I know there are several tests, for instance, checking for dissolved salts. I can't immediately recall any others, but I do keep a current reference guide with me in case there is something I am not sure about."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"Clinicians may order different tests to check kidney function, depending upon his or her preference. Some kidney function tests include Creatinine level, urea level, eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate). Also, tests for dissolved salts include sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate, which are electrolytes. Any alteration in the level of these electrolytes may be due to kidney dysfunction."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
30. What are some possible risks associated with drawing blood from a neonate?
How to Answer
Phlebotomists are expected to not only know how to draw blood but to also understand possible risks that may be associated with a draw. Share your knowledge with the interviewer about the risks associated with drawing blood from a neonate.
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Entry Level
"A few risks associated with arterial testing of neonates could be scarring or development of a hematoma."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"There are several possible risks when performing arterial testing on a neonate. Some examples include osteomyelitis of the heel, nerve damage, and hematoma."
Written by Heather Douglass on June 7th, 2021
Experienced
"There could be a number of risks associated with drawing blood from a neonate. Because infants and neonates have smaller fingers, if the fingers are punctured, there is a risk of possible nerve damage. Also, if the tibial artery is damaged when the medial aspect of the heel is punctured, collapse of veins could occur."
Written by Darby Faubion