Which of the following best describes a phlebotomist's role?

A phlebotomist's primary role is to take blood samples for testing. This involves drawing blood from patients through venipuncture or fingerstick methods, ensuring that the samples are collected in accordance with safety and hygiene protocols. Following the collection, they label the samples accurately for laboratory testing, which is crucial for diagnoses and treatment plans.

The phlebotomist's work is vital in various health care settings, including hospitals, clinics, and laboratories, where blood testing is a routine yet essential part of patient care. Their expertise ensures that the blood samples are obtained efficiently and with minimal discomfort to the patient, which is an important aspect of patient satisfaction and care.

In contrast, the other roles listed are distinct and fall under different health care professionals. Performing surgeries is the responsibility of surgeons, providing dental care pertains to dental hygienists or dentists, and conducting patient evaluations is typically done by physicians or nurse practitioners. Each of these roles requires specific training and qualifications separate from those of a phlebotomist.