To Lisa

[martha]

Dear Lisa,

You stated in another thread that at one time in your life you had been a phlebotomist. Where you certified?

I'm a phlebotomist, was certified. Gave that up and number of years ago. When if became impossible to get around and be on my feet for very long. I remember before I started working that I had the hep. shots. Not very plesent, a three shot series. Glad to hear that yours is not the active kind.

 

[Kevin M]

You have to know that someone is going to ask this!

You have to know that someone is going to ask this!

What the heck is a phlebotomist? Do they bite?
Kev

 

[Nancy]

Actually they are VAMPIRES !

 

[Lisa in Katy]

Certified? I didn't know there was such a thing. I was 18 years old, taught by someone who was 20, and "practiced" on a real live patient for the first time. The Hep B shots hadn't been invented yet then. This was in 1980-81. I'm not sure that Hepatitis B had even been identified yet. I only remember people having Hepatitis - no letter was every mentioned then.

Yes, I was called vampire on many occasions. I finally quit when my Cardiologist threatened me. In the 18 months that I drew blood, I had strep throat 5 times. Too much exposure to staph, which would knock down my immunities. I think my doctor's words were "Exactly how soon do you want that surgery?"