You will learn everything there is to know about being a phlebotomist as a career. Including… What they do! Where they work! How much they make! And, their job prospects in the coming years. Most importantly, you’ll find out what you need to do to start this important career in health care and investigate courses that can help you start right away.
Being a phlebotomist can offer flexibility, variety and excitement. If you’re thinking about a new career, read on to find out if being a phlebotomist is right for you.
Phlebotomist: What is that?
Phlebotomists draw blood from patients so that it can be analyzed in a medical laboratory. A phlebotomist may also collect blood for donation to a blood bank or prepare blood for transfusions. Phlebotomy technicians typically collect blood through venipuncture. They may also use finger pricks also known as capillary sticks. If they are working with infants in pediatric medicine they will perform heel sticks. Phlebotomists typically work in blood donation centers, medical offices, clinics, diagnostic labs, or hospitals. Maintaining sterile environments, avoiding cross-contamination, adhering to healthcare laws, and protecting medical privacy are all important aspects of phlebotomy technician training.
The primary responsibility of a phlebotomist is to collect blood samples from patients in accordance with a medical professional’s instructions. However, they might also talk to patients about the blood draw procedure or check their vital signs Keeping the work area clean and sterile is a part of the practice. They might also be required to complete paperwork, label vials and collect patient information. Maintaining and setting up the work area with the appropriate vials, needles and other supplies during the shift, may be necessary depending on which lab they are working at.
Phlebotomist training:
To become a phlebotomist, you must complete a phlebotomy program consisting of educational and hands on instruction to obtain a phlebotomy certificate. On-the-job training might let you learn how to draw blood in some states. Not all states have the same requirements so please check your state laws. Phlebotomists must be certified through the state in California, Louisiana, Nevada, and Washington.
Even if you intend to work in a state that does not require certification in phlebotomy, you might find that employers still require certification before hiring. If presented with the option of hiring a candidate with or without certification, most employers choose the former. By completing the certification process, you can show that you have have been trained on the procedure and also have some experience. Passing the final exam shows that you are competent within the curriculum provided and that you have the basic knowledge needed for the job.
Phlebotomist can make anywhere from $15/hr to $40hr. The salary will greatly depend on state, experience and employer.
Cost of a phlebotomy program:
Training can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars. Phlebotomy Now offers classes for as little as $894 with a mix of online and in person, hands on training. If you enroll in a program offered by a community college or health care training provider the course may cost more than $2,500. Course materials, supplies and the National Phlebotomy Technician Exam may not be included in these prices.
To maintain your phlebotomy certification and remain eligible to practice in your state, you may need to enroll in continuing education courses. The requirements for maintaining your certification vary not only from state to state but by certifying agency. To ensure that you are maintaining certification within the proper state guidelines ask your certifying agency for details.
