Phlebotomist Training

If you've considered a career in the medical field you might want to start with that of phlebotomy. Phlebotomist is a career that is specialized and quite secure. You can begin training right out of high school or via GED and further education calls for 2 or 4 year degree programs.

What is Phlebotomy?

First of all, phlebotomists handle one primary job. They draw blood from a patient using a precise procedure that is hygienic and then they store the blood in a means by which the sample can be analyzed later. Phlebotomy field of medical training is quite popular and a great way for people who not only need an income but also want to be part of the healing team.

In days gone by this process was done by staff members such as nurses, however nowadays this procedure is handled by the phlebotomist. Being able to focus on this one important duty allows the doctors and nurses the time to focus on the patient overall. Having that expert phlebotomist around has turned the medical industry into a more professional and reliable team function.

Certification and Training in Phlebotomyphlebotomy training

The phlebotomy industry like any other medical branch requires regulations. There are both national phlebotomy regulations as well as state regulations. The various regulatory associations that offer testing for the levels of certification are governing bodies by which certification and oversight can be found. There are fees for the various certifications. These fees are not expensive but are part of the administrative end. Take in mind that each state has its own standards that might be on par with or exceed those of national standards. For safety's sake some basic regulations known as Registration require only a filing of the phlebotomist's name, address, and filing fee. Requirements vary so it's best to consult the experts. Examples of levels of regulations are, the uncertified phlebotomist may be able to engage in practice, however only in certain areas or levels of procedure as certain specialized titles are held for those certified. For bona fide Certification there are no provisions as with Registration. Finally there's Licensure which is the highest standard which basically prohibits any practice until state guidelines and standards have been achieved.

Phlebotomy Jobs

As mentioned earlier, the Phlebotomist is on the front lines of medical treatment. They're one of the first faces seen by a patient and that's why their job is of such importance. If the patient can't handle a simple blood draw then they'll be more anxious for more invasive procedures. The phlebotomist needs to have great people skills as their job sets the pace for further diagnostics. Procedures calls for them to prep the patient for extraction, draw blood and then store it properly and label. There may be other minor tasks but that is the bottom line.

Salary for Phlebotomistsphlebotomist training

A trained phlebotomist in the US can make upwards of almost $49k per year. The median income is around $30-$35k per year in the big states like California. That's just the base salary not including overtime and other benefits. The plus side is health care coverage and other perks. Needless to say this responsible job is something you not only can build a nest egg with but one that can carry you to a comfortable retirement.

Where can I get Phlebotomy Training

To train to be a phlebotomist calls for vocational training of the highest standards. You'll have locales such as your local colleges and specialized venues. You may train on hospital campuses that give even more hands on training as there will be real life situations that the student will find they'll be able to observe.

Since phlebotomists are expected to be highly trained in order to be certified it is a good idea for the student to double check the credentials of their prospective means of instruction. The combination of theory and practical calls for precision with no room for error. Since the phlebotomist is going to be required to not only draw blood and store it but also to handle other chores, the amount of training and type of training must cover all areas. As mentioned earlier since the demand for highly trained phlebotomists is quite high nowadays so one's chances of getting a job are much better. That's why the training end is of such importance. The training institutions have job placement and just word of mouth is enough to get you on the road to employment. Prospects can expect to rub elbows with working professionals in the medical field who will be taking notice of their progress. As relationships grow it's a good bet that one will find that institution one wants to work at and many friends along the way.

Cost for Phlebotomist Training

Since it's not mandatory that a phlebotomist to attend a two or four year college, the costs for training can range between $1,500 to $3,500. That includes both online or onsite training. This cost is highly equitable as once one is employed you'll be making that expenditure back in roughly one month. This is why phlebotomy is such a great career and a great place to start off one's medical career and education.

Career in Phlebotomy

Once you've done the vocational training for phlebotomy you'll then enter the workplace. It might feel intimidating at first but your vocational training should have prepared you for it. If not just remember to use your trained skills to establish to others on the health care team that you're a responsible team player and that should launch up upwards and onwards to a rewarding career. You'll also by this time have made allies among your classmates who will be working with you during your career. These friendships can lead to greater career advancement and don't forget the combination of vocational training and professional application may lead you to become an instructor on your own. That doubles or triples your value in this field and increases your income. Any way you look at it, phlebotomy at this time and in the future is going to be a major career field.

Whichever path you decide to pick, we hope that the information provided on our site can help you decide which career to pursue. Please feel free to share the article with your family and friends. You just never know when they might be looking for Phlebotomy Training or Phlebotomist Certification.