How to Become a Phlebotomist ?

 

Physicians, nurses and medical researchers all rely on the staff of pathology labs to perform diagnostic tests on blood and tissue samples. The blood used in these tests, as well as that used in surgery, is collected by Phlebotomy Technicians. Collecting and safely handling and transporting blood is their primary responsibility.

In simplest terms, a Phlebotomist is someone who draws blood. In practice though, phlebotomy encompasses more than merely extracting blood from a vein. It is a profession in which knowledge of anatomy, psychology, chemistry, and administration are all expected and utilized.
A Phlebotomy Technician must maintain sterile equipment, ensure quality control in collection and transportation and protect themselves and other from blood borne pathogens and diseases. That’s just for typical collections; they must also be prepared to deal with complications that arise unexpectedly. Such complications can include improperly drawn blood, patient allergies, or other patient conditions. A Phlebotomist needs to quickly and effectively adapt their procedures and equipment to fit any circumstances.

To become a Phlebotomy Technician a high school diploma or it’s equivalent is required. While there are paths to become specialized, all Phlebotomists must complete a basic curriculum that includes formal classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. Standard programs include basic anatomy and physiology to prepare the future Phlebotomist in the collection of samples as well as complications that may arise. You are taught the proper use of, assembly, adjustment and maintenance of lab equipment that is necessary for collection and culturing duties. Instruction in basic related medical chemistry is also explained. This understanding dramatically increases efficiency in phlebotomy duties.

A good phlebotomy program will also offer instruction in psychology and interpersonal communication. Phlebotomists are often faced with patients who are uncomfortable or anxious about the collection process. Learning how to relax and assess a patient without causing further angst should be an essential part of your phlebotomy education.

Phlebotomy Technician training programs are offered by community colleges, vocational institutions and teaching hospitals. They can range from a 4 week training program to an associate’s degree. When selecting a program, be sure they are accredited. At minimum, choose a program that qualifies you to sit for the national certification exam. Those minimum requirements are 40 hours of classroom instruction and 100 hours of clinical instruction, including 100 unaided blood collections. Once these minimum requirements are met, you can sit for the certification exam offered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).

Phlebotomy can be an excellent introduction to a great career in the medical industry without nearly the time and expense required for most fields. It opens the door to become a lab technician or to specialize in a phlebotomy area. Some examples include a Patient Service Technician Specialist and Collections Phlebotomy Specialist. Additional education and training may be necessary for these positions, but the experience and networking opportunities garnered as a working general Phlebotomist makes the transition much smoother.

Salary.com reports the average Phlebotomy Technician salary at $39,740 a year for 2020. This is one of the highest entry-level wages available in the healthcare industry. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also predicts the field will continue to grow for the foreseeable future, forecasting a 14% growth rate from 2018 to 2028. Supervisory and specialist positions have the opportunity to earn significantly more.

A career as a Phlebotomist is an excellent choice for anyone looking to hit the ground running after a very short period of training. With little more than certification in phlebotomy from the ASCP, you can begin a rewarding career that may transition into more lucrative positions in the medical field. Depending on your goals and interests, the choice to become a Phlebotomy Technician may lead to your a career as medical assistant or a lab technician after some additional education.