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Phlebotomists

SOC 31-9097.00Job Zone 3 · Medium Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers phlebotomy practice in clinical inpatient, outpatient, and laboratory settings including specimen collection, processing, disposal, regulatory compliance, patient communication, and departmental leadership across all career stages.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Contaminated sharps disposal — follow established protocols under direct supervision to ensure compliance with applicable laws and facility policies in a clinical laboratory or outpatient draw station.
  2. Blood-drawing tray setup — organize and inspect trays for sterility and first-use needles and syringes under the guidance of a senior phlebotomist in a healthcare setting.
  3. Venipuncture technique — perform basic vacuum tube blood draws under direct supervision on cooperative adult patients in a hospital or clinic environment.
  4. Laboratory requisition forms — match printed or electronic requisition forms to correctly labeled specimen tubes under supervisor review in a processing area.
  5. Biohazard fluid disposal — dispose of blood and other biohazardous materials following facility protocols and applicable regulations under direct oversight in a clinical setting.
  6. Patient identification — verify two patient identifiers before specimen collection using established facility procedures in an inpatient or outpatient draw environment.
  7. Standard phlebotomy equipment — identify and handle needles, syringes, and butterfly sets correctly under direct supervision on a healthcare unit.
  8. Medical terminology — recognize common laboratory test names and abbreviations when reading requisition forms in a clinical laboratory context.
  9. Specimen labeling — apply accurate patient and collection-time labels to specimen tubes immediately after collection under guidance in a draw station.
  10. Infection control basics — apply standard precautions including hand hygiene and personal protective equipment under direct supervision during all specimen collection activities.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Sharps disposal compliance — consistently manage and document contaminated sharps disposal in accordance with OSHA regulations and facility policy with minimal oversight in a high-volume phlebotomy setting.
  2. Tray and instrument maintenance — independently organize, restock, and verify sterility of blood-drawing trays at the start and end of each shift in a busy outpatient laboratory.
  3. Multi-method venipuncture — perform vacuum tube, syringe, and butterfly venipuncture methods on a range of patient populations with reduced supervision in inpatient and outpatient environments.
  4. Requisition-to-tube matching — accurately reconcile laboratory requisition forms to the correct specimen tubes and verify test codes before specimen transport with routine efficiency.
  5. Standard laboratory tests — conduct routine tests including blood glucose screening, blood smears, and blood alcohol collections following established protocols in a clinical laboratory.
  6. Timed specimen collection — collect specimens at prescribed intervals for therapeutic drug monitoring and glucose tolerance tests, adjusting scheduling as needed in a fast-paced clinical environment.
  7. Specimen processing — centrifuge, aliquot, and prepare blood and fluid samples for downstream analysis by laboratory professionals with limited direction in a processing laboratory.
  8. Patient communication — explain collection procedures clearly to anxious or pediatric patients using active listening and plain language in a patient-facing draw center.
  9. Electronic health records — enter and retrieve specimen data accurately using medical software and office suite applications in an integrated healthcare system.
  10. Time management — prioritize multiple concurrent draw orders and timed collections to meet turnaround time targets independently in a high-demand clinical setting.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Complex venipuncture scenarios — perform successful blood draws on difficult-access patients, including elderly, pediatric, and oncology populations, autonomously and with minimal patient discomfort in acute care settings.
  2. Biohazard compliance leadership — audit disposal practices for blood and biohazardous materials across the team and recommend corrective actions to ensure ongoing regulatory compliance in a multi-site facility.
  3. Advanced specimen collection — independently conduct blood cultures, peak-and-trough drug level draws, and oral glucose tolerance tests while managing strict timing requirements in a hospital laboratory.
  4. Quality control of specimens — evaluate specimen integrity, identify hemolysis, clotting, or labeling errors, and initiate recollection procedures with clinical judgment in a laboratory environment.
  5. Requisition reconciliation — resolve discrepancies between electronic orders and physical specimens by coordinating with nursing and laboratory staff autonomously in a complex health system.
  6. Tray and supply oversight — manage inventory levels, evaluate vendor supplies for quality compliance, and maintain sterile technique standards across an entire phlebotomy department.
  7. Cross-functional coordination — collaborate with nursing, pathology, and medical staff to ensure seamless specimen workflow and timely result delivery in an integrated hospital setting.
  8. Patient safety monitoring — recognize and respond to adverse reactions such as syncope or hematoma formation during or after collection, applying appropriate first-aid protocols independently.
  9. Documentation and reporting — produce accurate written reports of collection incidents, near-misses, and quality deviations using electronic health record and spreadsheet software in a compliance-driven environment.
  10. Regulatory knowledge application — interpret and apply updated CLSI standards, OSHA guidelines, and facility accreditation requirements to daily phlebotomy practice without supervisory direction.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Departmental standards development — design and implement phlebotomy protocols, disposal policies, and quality assurance frameworks aligned with regulatory requirements across an entire healthcare organization.
  2. Staff training and mentorship — develop and deliver competency-based training curricula for emerging and developing phlebotomists, using instructional best practices in classroom and clinical environments.
  3. Performance metrics leadership — establish key performance indicators for specimen quality, turnaround time, and patient satisfaction, and drive continuous improvement initiatives across a multi-site laboratory network.
  4. Regulatory compliance strategy — lead organizational preparation for accreditation inspections by CAP, TJC, or OSHA, ensuring all phlebotomy practices meet or exceed current standards.
  5. Technology integration — evaluate, implement, and champion medical software, scheduling platforms, and electronic health record systems to optimize phlebotomy operations across a health system.
  6. Workforce planning — assess staffing needs, recruit qualified candidates, and design scheduling models to ensure adequate coverage and maintain service quality in a high-volume clinical environment.
  7. Cross-departmental policy influence — partner with laboratory directors, nursing leadership, and risk management to align specimen collection policies with patient safety and operational goals at an executive level.
  8. Competency assessment program — design and administer formal competency evaluation tools for phlebotomy staff, ensuring ongoing proficiency and professional development within the department.
  9. Budget and resource management — oversee procurement of phlebotomy supplies, negotiate vendor contracts, and manage departmental budgets to balance cost efficiency with quality and compliance.
  10. Organizational culture of safety — champion a culture of attention to detail, integrity, and cautiousness by modeling exemplary practice and establishing accountability systems across the phlebotomy workforce.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. Basic specimen labeling support — uses AI-assisted label-matching tools to cross-check laboratory requisition forms against specimen tubes, flagging mismatches before manual review.
Developing
  1. Compliance documentation guidance — consults AI-generated summaries of biohazard disposal regulations to confirm that sharps and contaminated materials are handled in accordance with applicable laws and institutional policies Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Patient communication scaffolding — references AI-suggested language prompts to explain venipuncture procedures to anxious or non-English-speaking patients, adapting tone and phrasing to each individual WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Instrument sterilization audit — directs an AI scheduling tool to track blood-drawing tray restocking cycles, ensuring sterile instruments and single-use needle inventories remain within compliance thresholds Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Vein-access technique selection — applies AI-generated decision support to select between vacuum tube, syringe, or butterfly venipuncture methods based on patient profile data, while retaining full procedural authority at the bedside Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. Adverse-event pattern recognition — uses AI-flagged trend reports on patient adverse reactions to refine pre-draw screening questions and adjust monitoring protocols during high-volume collection shifts.
Advanced
  1. Workflow optimization leadership — designs AI-integrated phlebotomy workflows that align specimen collection sequencing, requisition routing, and biohazard disposal logging, evaluating system outputs against regulatory standards and patient-safety benchmarks Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Cross-functional AI governance — evaluates the fitness of AI-assisted specimen-tracking and patient-matching tools for department-wide deployment, establishing human-override criteria for cases where automation feasibility is limited by patient variability or procedural complexity Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Service Orientation
Score: 57.3 / 100
precision: category_estimate
WEF cluster
Human-Technology Interaction
human_technology_interaction
Sources:Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication9 statements
Emerging
  1. Patient identification communication — verifies patient name and date of birth using two-factor confirmation protocol before initiating venipuncture Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Procedure explanation — describes blood draw steps to patients using plain language to reduce anxiety prior to collection Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Requisition form communication — interprets laboratory requisition forms accurately and confirms test orders with nursing staff when discrepancies arise Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Adverse reaction reporting — communicates syncope episodes or specimen collection failures to supervising clinicians using clear, timely verbal notification Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Cross-department communication — relays specimen status updates and critical collection timing requirements to laboratory and nursing teams without delays Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Patient-centered communication — adapts explanations of glucose tolerance or therapeutic drug monitoring procedures to patients with varying health literacy levels Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Written documentation — records collection time, site, method, and patient condition on chain-of-custody forms with precision and completeness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Protocol communication — authors or revises departmental collection scripts and patient-facing instructional materials to standardize pre-procedure communication across the phlebotomy team Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Conflict de-escalation — resolves patient refusals or hostile responses to venipuncture by applying structured verbal de-escalation techniques that preserve patient dignity and care continuity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
2Leadership8 statements
Emerging
  1. Personal accountability — takes ownership of individual tray preparation and sterile field maintenance without requiring supervisory prompting Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Initiative in supply management — identifies depleted needle or tube stock during shift setup and reports shortages before collection rounds begin Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Peer guidance — demonstrates correct venipuncture technique and biohazard disposal procedures to new phlebotomy trainees during supervised orientation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Workflow prioritization — independently sequences stat, timed, and routine collection orders to optimize patient throughput during high-volume shifts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Team coordination — leads morning collection rounds by assigning draw responsibilities, communicating timed specimen schedules, and ensuring all team members have requisitions matched to correct tubes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Quality leadership — identifies recurring labeling or collection errors on the team and initiates corrective conversations grounded in established standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Departmental improvement — spearheads process redesign initiatives such as restructuring blood-drawing tray organization systems to reduce pre-analytical errors across the phlebotomy unit Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Mentorship — develops and delivers structured competency training for new hires covering venipuncture methods, specimen processing, and regulatory compliance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition8 statements
Emerging
  1. Skill self-assessment — recognizes personal limitations in difficult draw situations such as rolling veins or pediatric patients and seeks supervisor guidance before proceeding Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Procedure reflection — reviews unsuccessful venipuncture attempts to identify technique errors and adjusts approach on subsequent collections Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Learning strategy application — uses procedural checklists and self-review of collection logs to identify personal error patterns in specimen labeling or tube selection Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Knowledge gap recognition — identifies unfamiliar test protocols such as blood culture or peak-and-trough drug level collection and seeks clarification from laboratory staff before execution Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Process monitoring — tracks personal hemolysis or mislabeling rates over time and adjusts collection technique or workflow to improve specimen quality outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Adaptive planning — restructures daily collection schedule mid-shift when stat orders or patient unavailability disrupts the original plan, applying deliberate prioritization logic Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Reflective practice modeling — facilitates team debriefs after adverse events or near-miss labeling errors, guiding colleagues through structured root-cause reflection to prevent recurrence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Continuous improvement orientation — evaluates personal and unit-level performance metrics against CAP or CLSI standards and designs targeted self-improvement goals Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking9 statements
Emerging
  1. Order verification — cross-checks laboratory requisition forms against specimen tube color codes before drawing to prevent pre-analytical errors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Contraindication recognition — identifies obvious venipuncture contraindications such as edematous or mastectomy-side arms and selects an alternate site Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Specimen integrity evaluation — assesses collected samples for hemolysis, clotting, or insufficient volume and determines whether recollection is required before sending to the laboratory Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Timed collection reasoning — calculates correct draw intervals for therapeutic drug monitoring or glucose tolerance tests by interpreting physician orders and patient medication schedules Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Diagnostic problem-solving — investigates causes of repeated difficult draws by systematically evaluating patient hydration, vein condition, needle gauge, and technique variables Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Regulatory compliance analysis — evaluates biohazard disposal and sharps handling practices against current OSHA and facility policy standards to identify compliance gaps Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Evidence-based technique selection — selects between vacuum tube, syringe, or butterfly method based on patient vein condition, age, and ordered test requirements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Policy gap analysis — critically reviews departmental collection procedures against updated CLSI guidelines and recommends evidence-based revisions to leadership Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Complex case reasoning — resolves ambiguous or conflicting laboratory orders by consulting with pathologists or ordering physicians and documenting the clinical rationale for collection decisions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration8 statements
Emerging
  1. Care team cooperation — coordinates blood draw timing with bedside nurses to avoid interrupting medication administration or patient procedures Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Laboratory liaison — delivers specimens to the laboratory with complete requisition documentation and communicates any collection anomalies to receiving staff Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Interdepartmental coordination — collaborates with nursing and pharmacy teams to schedule peak-and-trough drug level collections aligned with dosing schedules Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Shared resource management — coordinates blood-drawing tray restocking and equipment sterilization responsibilities with phlebotomy colleagues during multi-staff shifts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Multi-discipline teamwork — participates in patient care conferences or morning huddles to align phlebotomy schedules with surgical, radiology, and nursing workflows Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Conflict navigation — negotiates collection timing disputes between laboratory demands and bedside care priorities by facilitating communication between both parties Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Cross-functional process improvement — leads collaborative workgroups with laboratory, nursing, and infection control teams to redesign specimen collection and transport workflows Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Training collaboration — co-develops competency assessments and simulation scenarios with laboratory education coordinators to standardize phlebotomy training across the department Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
6Character9 statements
Emerging
  1. Patient dignity — treats all patients with respect and maintains professional demeanor during uncomfortable or anxiety-provoking venipuncture procedures Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Regulatory adherence — disposes of contaminated sharps and biohazard fluids in designated containers in strict compliance with OSHA regulations and facility policy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Accountability in error reporting — self-reports mislabeled specimens or incorrect collection times to supervisors immediately without minimizing the clinical significance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Confidentiality maintenance — safeguards patient test results and requisition information in compliance with HIPAA requirements during transport and verbal communication Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Ethical patient care — refuses to proceed with collections that violate informed consent, patient refusal, or physician order accuracy, even under scheduling pressure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Professionalism under pressure — maintains composure, accuracy, and patient-centered behavior during high-volume or emotionally charged collection scenarios Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Sterile practice integrity — consistently uses first-use needles and sterile equipment on every patient without exception, regardless of supply constraints Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethical culture modeling — confronts and reports unsafe or non-compliant practices observed in colleagues, supporting a culture of accountability and patient safety Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Standards stewardship — champions adherence to infection control and chain-of-custody standards departmentally by embedding ethical expectations into onboarding and peer review processes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
7Creativity8 statements
Emerging
  1. Adaptive site selection — identifies alternative venipuncture sites when standard antecubital locations are unavailable due to scarring, infiltration, or patient anatomy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Patient comfort innovation — devises small environmental modifications such as positioning adjustments or distraction techniques to reduce patient anxiety during draws Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Workflow problem-solving — redesigns personal collection route or tray organization to reduce turnaround time on multi-patient morning rounds Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Communication adaptation — creates patient-specific analogies or visual explanations for procedures like oral glucose tolerance tests to improve comprehension and compliance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Process innovation — develops novel tray organization or specimen tracking workarounds that reduce pre-analytical errors within the existing departmental infrastructure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Difficult draw solutions — applies creative multi-method strategies combining warming, repositioning, and alternate gauge selection to achieve successful collection in high-risk patients Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. System-level design — contributes original workflow redesign proposals to leadership that incorporate new labeling technologies or collection sequencing logic to improve laboratory turnaround times Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Training material creation — designs engaging simulation exercises or case-based scenarios for phlebotomy training programs that translate complex collection challenges into learnable practice situations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset8 statements
Emerging
  1. Challenge acceptance — volunteers for difficult draw assignments such as pediatric or geriatric patients to build competency beyond routine collections Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Feedback responsiveness — incorporates supervisor corrections on needle angle, tube fill order, or patient communication into immediate practice adjustments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Skill expansion — pursues training in specialized collection procedures such as blood cultures or arterial blood gas draws to extend technical capability Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Error-to-learning conversion — analyzes rejected or hemolyzed specimens as learning data and modifies collection technique based on quality control feedback Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Regulatory learning — actively monitors updates to OSHA, CLSI, and CAP guidelines and integrates new standards into daily collection and disposal practices Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Competency benchmarking — compares personal performance metrics such as first-stick success rates against departmental benchmarks and sets measurable improvement goals Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Learning culture leadership — establishes peer learning structures within the phlebotomy team such as case reviews of difficult draws to normalize growth through shared experience Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Continuous professional development — pursues advanced certification such as NHA or ASCP credentials and applies advanced knowledge to elevate departmental practice standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness8 statements
Emerging
  1. Procedural presence — maintains full attention on patient identification, tube selection, and labeling steps during each collection, avoiding autopilot errors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotional awareness — recognizes patient anxiety or vasovagal warning signs such as pallor or diaphoresis before and during venipuncture and responds with immediate care adjustments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Attention regulation — sustains focus and collection accuracy during repetitive high-volume morning draw rounds without reducing care quality for later patients Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Stress response management — applies controlled breathing or brief cognitive resets between challenging patient interactions to prevent emotional carryover into subsequent collections Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Intentional technique — approaches each venipuncture with deliberate tactile assessment of vein depth, direction, and fragility rather than relying on habit alone Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Patient cue attunement — reads nonverbal patient signals such as muscle tensing or avoidant gaze and adjusts pace, communication, and technique in real time Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Mindful environment modeling — coaches colleagues on attentional discipline during high-distraction collection environments such as emergency departments or pediatric units Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Systemic awareness — monitors environmental and workflow factors such as staffing shortages or supply disruptions that elevate error risk and proactively initiates mitigation strategies Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude8 statements
Emerging
  1. Discomfort tolerance — continues professional conduct and technical focus when patients react with hostility, needle phobia, or physical resistance during blood collection Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Persistence through difficulty — reattempts venipuncture using an adjusted technique after an initial unsuccessful draw, rather than withdrawing from the challenge Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. High-volume endurance — maintains collection accuracy and patient care standards through extended shifts involving large numbers of draws without performance degradation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Adverse event recovery — resumes normal workflow and professional composure promptly after managing a patient syncope, needlestick exposure, or specimen rejection event Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Sustained precision under pressure — delivers correct timed specimen collections for therapeutic drug monitoring even during staffing shortages or simultaneous stat order demands Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Regulatory courage — reports observed biohazard disposal violations or sterility breaches by colleagues to supervisors despite interpersonal discomfort Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Resilience modeling — supports team members through high-stress periods such as accreditation inspections or infection outbreaks by maintaining stability and demonstrating steady professional performance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Systemic perseverance — sustains advocacy for patient safety improvements and quality standards through extended departmental resistance or resource constraints without abandoning the effort Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Show O*NET source anchors50 anchors · skillscrosswalk.com

O*NET enrichment · skillscrosswalk.com

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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Certified Phlebotomist · Certified Phlebotomy Technician · Clinical Phlebotomist · Collections Technician · Lab Liaison Technician · Laboratory Phlebotomist · Long Term Care Phlebotomist · Mobile Examiner · Mobile Phlebotomist · Outpatient Phlebotomist · Patient Service Technician (PST) · Phlebotomist
RAPIDS apprenticeships
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O*NET skills
Service OrientationSocial PerceptivenessSpeakingActive ListeningCritical ThinkingMonitoringCoordinationReading ComprehensionWritingActive LearningInstructingTime Management
Knowledge domains
Customer and Personal ServiceEnglish LanguageAdministrativeEducation and TrainingPsychologyComputers and ElectronicsMedicine and Dentistry
Abilities
Near VisionArm-Hand SteadinessProblem SensitivityOral ComprehensionWritten ComprehensionOral ExpressionDeductive ReasoningSpeech ClarityFinger DexteritySpeech Recognition
Work styles
Attention to DetailDependabilityCautiousnessIntegrityStress ToleranceCooperation
Technology
Medical softwareWeb platform development softwareSpreadsheet softwareOffice suite softwareElectronic mail softwareWord processing softwareCalendar and scheduling software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Dispose of contaminated sharps, in accordance with applicable laws, standards, and policies.
  2. Organize or clean blood-drawing trays, ensuring that all instruments are sterile and all needles, syringes, or related items are of first-time use.
  3. Draw blood from veins by vacuum tube, syringe, or butterfly venipuncture methods.
  4. Match laboratory requisition forms to specimen tubes.
  5. Dispose of blood or other biohazard fluids or tissue, in accordance with applicable laws, standards, or policies.
  6. Conduct standards tests, such as blood alcohol, blood culture, oral glucose tolerance, glucose screening, blood smears, or peak and trough drug levels tests.
  7. Collect specimens at specific time intervals for tests, such as those assessing therapeutic drug levels.
  8. Process blood or other fluid samples for further analysis by other medical professionals.
CIP education codes
51.1009

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.