Medical Laboratory Assistant and Phlebotomist

Medical laboratory assistants and phlebotomists are working through New Brunswick’s healthcare system in the province’s hospitals, clinical labs, medical and surgical centers, blood donation centers, and government facilities. They have the skills to perform laboratory tests and operate lab equipment. They collect and log samples from patients for testing and analysis such as blood, tissue, or other samples. Every day in New Brunswick, medical laboratory assistants and phlebotomists carefully collect specimens from patients and/or staff, check their condition, and ensure the specimens are sent to the appropriate staff/department. Sample security and integrity is an important facet of day-to-day healthcare delivery, and individuals who choose this profession are disciplined and detail oriented. Our healthcare professionals and patients in New Brunswick depend on it.

Medical laboratory assistants and phlebotomists are often responsible for greeting patients and recording their health information before collecting the samples. To become a lab assistant/phlebotomist, you need training in phlebotomy techniques, maintaining equipment, and quality assurance. Maintenance of the phlebotomy room may be your responsibility too. If you choose a medical laboratory assistant/phlebotomist career in New Brunswick, there are a variety of rural and urban opportunities in our hospitals, clinics, and other settings.

Personal characteristics and skills

  • Attention to detail and good manual dexterity
  • Normal colour vision
  • Ability to work with precision
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills
  • Good organizational skills and problem-solving skills

Medical laboratory assistants and phlebotomists in New Brunswick have a variety of important roles, including but not limited to:

  • Collecting blood, tissue, or other samples from patients for laboratory testing
  • Logging patient samples and preparing them for testing
  • Cleaning and maintaining medical laboratory equipment
  • Labelling and sorting tissue samples and specimens
  • Using computers to input and analyse data
  • Disposing of hazardous waste and sterilizing equipment

The average workweek of a medical laboratory assistant or phlebotomist varies. Medical laboratory assistants and phlebotomists may work full time or part time. They may also work rotating shifts including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Medical laboratory assistants and phlebotomists work in laboratory environments where they may spend a considerable amount of time standing or sitting, and safety and accuracy are of extreme importance.

Medical laboratory assistants and phlebotomists work in a variety of settings, such as:

  • Medical laboratories in hospitals or clinics
  • Research institutes or universities
  • Pharmaceutical laboratories

A Medical Laboratory Assistant program college diploma is required.

Education programs offered in New Brunswick include: