Meet phlebotomist Angela Emmett for Phlebotomist Recognition Week

Phlebotomist Angela Emmett spends her days taking blood samples from patients at the William Harvey Hospital – despite having a fear of needles.

It might be a strange career choice for someone who panics at the thought of a blood test for herself, but for Angela it makes sense.

Her own experiences mean she is perfectly placed to reassure nervous patients, and to know how to put them at ease.

She said: “My mouth waters, my heart beats faster, and I break out into a sweat if I need a blood test – so I know just how people feel when they say they don’t like needles.

“It means I can have real empathy with them, and I’ve picked up some useful tactics along the way.

“Quite often if people faint it’s because they have been holding their breath, so I like to ask them questions so they answer and it means they have to breathe!”

Angela joined the Trust 15 years ago, after long hours and weekend working in her role as a retail manager were taking their toll.

After browsing the NHS website, she discovered the role of phlebotomist, and now manages a team of 15 working on the wards and in outpatients at the hospital.

She said: “I wanted something completely different and this role definitely was. My mum was a nurse for many years and she had suggested healthcare so I thought why not?

“The training was all on the job; starting with booking people in and then putting on the tourniquet and feeling for the vein, before actually inserting the needle.

“My first sample was from my manager who volunteered so we could practise. That did make it more nerve-wracking!”

Angela has taken blood from thousands of patients over the years, with an appointment up to every eight minutes for the outpatient team.

She said: “I look forward to coming to work; our patients are lovely and so many bring us little treats to say thank you which always gives us a real boost.

“It is a privilege to be able to play a part in their treatment. Some of them share their stories with us, and it is lovely to be able to listen and help them feel cared for.

“The team is fantastic and we all support each other. I trained them the way I was trained so I know they are all professional and compassionate.

“My favourite thing is when someone comes in and says we won’t be able to get blood from them – I know we can and we always do.”