For my STEP signature project, I decided to do a 3-week phlebotomy certification course. Throughout this course, I learned how to perform venipuncture on both the arms and hands, order of drawing for blood draws, infection control in hospitals and labs, and medical terminology as well anatomy. On the last two days of the course, I took a practical exam where I had to demonstrate my skills of drawing blood on two volunteers and the written national exam.
Completing this course was a transformative experience that reshaped my understanding of healthcare and my role within it. Throughout the course, we had to draw each other’s blood, and I had to draw my own blood. I felt more empathy towards others, especially people around me. Empathy and communication with people in healthcare are important to show towards people I’ll encounter in my future career which is to become a doctor. I realized that interacting with patients and providing comfort was critical in this field. At first, I assumed that the technical skills required for phlebotomy would be the most challenging aspect of the course which I quickly learned on blood drawing day that both are equally important. This course taught me how to work better with people and understand that everyone’s situations are different than my own perspective. I gained more confidence and compassion for others as well as self-awareness for others I will encounter.
One of the most significant events was on the second day of class when we had to start drawing blood on each other for class and had to draw each other. I remember feeling very scared and nervous since I was the first person who was picked to draw blood. I could tell that my partner was a bit scared and nervous as well, but I took control and was reassuring him. This was a key moment for me that showed my empathy and communication. It showed that in the healthcare field, I can show these aspects to my future patients and make their experience better for them.
Another aspect of this course that was significant was my instructor and the relationship she developed with not only me but my other classmates. My instructor has been a phlebotomist for over 30 years, and she was constantly sharing her experiences, perspectives, and important knowledge for us to know. She encouraged us to practice on each other and be confident in what we’re doing. She was very supportive and always gave the best advice to help me succeed. She gave me the mindset to be open to learning more and being open to more experiences.
Lastly, the overall curriculum and the course from mastering the technical skills to the practical skills were very important and led me to really zone into my interest in healthcare. It helped me confirm that a career in healthcare is for me and that helping people and being in their environment is meant for me. I’m capable of helping patients by showing them the care they need. I’m very confident that I can succeed in the healthcare environment after taking this course.
This transformation is significant and valuable in my life because of my future career path.Being a medical doctor means you must be open to all your patients and understand that they’re human and they’re here for a reason. This is life changing since it has confirmed that I really want a career in healthcare. I have gained a new sense of empathy and better communication which has changed my life, and I can use it throughout my life.
