2025-11-03 – Weekly Phlebotomy News : Critical need for mobile examiners

Last week in the forum, conversations ranged from job opportunities to technical discussions on phlebotomy procedures. There was a notable emphasis on the increasing demand for mobile and remote phlebotomy roles, reflecting shifts in the healthcare landscape. Members also shared experiences and challenges with specific equipment, like the 23G butterfly needles, and discussed best practices for specimen handling.


This Week’s Hot Topics

2025-10-31 – Weekly Phlebotomy Jobs : Critical need for mobile examiners
This thread highlights the urgent need for mobile examiners, pointing to a growing trend in the industry. It’s a must-read if you’re considering a more flexible role.
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23G butterflies causing more hemolysis
A technical discussion on the increased hemolysis observed with 23G butterfly needles. This is crucial for those looking to minimize specimen quality issues.
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2025-10-24 – Weekly Phlebotomy Jobs : Remote phlebotomy roles are growing fast
Explore the rapid growth of remote phlebotomy roles—an exciting development for those seeking non-traditional work settings.
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When the label wins the fight
Members share stories of mislabeled specimens and the impact on patient care. It’s a reminder of the importance of attention to detail.
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2025-10-09 – Weekly Phlebotomy Jobs : Remote phlebotomy roles on the rise
Further discussions on remote roles, emphasizing the shift in where and how phlebotomy work is being done.
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Why do we call them tiger tops
A fun, educational thread about the terminology behind common phlebotomy supplies.
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Would You Take This Job? Phlebotomist / Clinical Lab Assistant
A candid discussion on job expectations and realities, helping members evaluate career opportunities.
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Why do so many articles bury the lede
Members critique common writing practices in professional articles, seeking more direct communication.
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Keeping specimens cold on long runs
Tips and strategies for maintaining specimen integrity during transportation, crucial for mobile phlebotomists.
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Is order of draw based on data or tradition
A thought-provoking discussion on whether phlebotomy practices are data-driven or based on historical norms.
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Thanks for catching up with us this week. Stay tuned for more engaging discussions and valuable insights into the world of phlebotomy. Have a productive week ahead!

Mobile demand is real — my weekday route averages 9 home draws, and 23G butterflies save me on fragile veins, but if I don’t ease the vacuum the hemolysis creeps up, . “do we call them tiger tops” — I still do; mobile tip: give SSTs a full 30-minute clot and keep them upright in a foam rack before driving. Small caveat: when butterflies run short, a 21G straight with a gentle syringe draw and a safety transfer device works fine if your policy allows.

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Quick tip from my home-draw mornings: with 23G butterflies on fragile veins, start with a pediatric tube (or a syringe + transfer device) to reduce vacuum, then switch to standard tubes — CLSI GP41 backs this: https://clsi.org/standards/products/collection-transfusion-resources/documents/gp41/. For mobile runs, I keep a foam rack in a small cooler and only lightly chill chem panels — over-cooling can bite you too — @SashaM, my trunk’s a mini-lab.

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