How to become a phlebotomist

Phlebotomists or phlebotomy technicians must undergo a course that will adequately prepare them to be able to perform the required job duties in a competent manner. A candidate interested in starting a phlebotomy career can prepare for the profession by attending a technical school, or by attending a 4 year college and earning an Associate’s Degree.

Generally a phlebotomist will participate in a program to learn the art, and follows up with periodic refresher courses of approximately six hours per year to keep skills current and learn about advances in phlebotomy. In addition, many phlebotomists retain membership in professional organizations.

The phlebotomist training program includes basic Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, bedside skills, legal and ethical issues that surround the handling of blood, and blood drawing skills. The two techniques all phlebotomists are trained in are venipuncture and finger sticks. Finger sticks are used to collect small blood samples, and are very easy to perform. Venipuncture is the procedure most people visualize when they think of blood sampling, and it involves placing a needle into the vein to collect blood. A phlebotomist will also receive training in how to take arterial blood, an additional skill which is useful in some situations.

Once you have completed your education and have acquired the necessary credentials, the next step in learning how to become a phlebotomist involves finding a place to work. With the advantage of a phlebotomy certification or diploma, you can expect to find jobs in medical laboratories in various locations. Hospitals, laboratories, nursing homes, clinics, and physicians’ offices can all offer work to certified phlebotomists. The demand for qualified healthcare workers is always high, but those with the right training can expect to find the best positions. If you wish to work in phlebotomy, you will gain considerable advantages by earning a phlebotomy certificate.

Regardless of your education and training, there are a few personal characteristics that make some people better qualified for a career in phlebotomy. Some skills that are desirable in a phlebotomist include manual dexterity as well as the ability to handle patients who are nervous and uncomfortable about the procedure. Phlebotomists must also be able to handle sensitive patient information with care and must be willing to undergo ongoing training.

From selecting a training method to becoming certified, every step in becoming a phlebotomist is personally rewarding. When you know you will be providing an important service, you know it will benefit everyone you work with as well as yourself.