The Process Of Getting Phlebotomy Certification
Getting a Phlebotomy Certification can be done quickly and be the beginning of a career in the health care field. There is training required and to get into a training program the person must have a high school diploma or a GED. Upon completion of a program testing is required to become certified. All states do not require the certification but most employers do.
A phlebotomist is someone who draws blood from patients for testing. They most often work in laboratories, community health centers, hospitals, blood banks or drug testing facilities. It is often easy to become employed quickly. The starting pay without any other medical background may be $8-$10 per hour. This, of course, will depend on the state and facility worked in.
There are some qualities that make for excellence in this profession. One of them is the ability to effectively and compassionately communicate with patients. There are few people who look forward to having their blood drawn. Many are wary of needles and any possible pain. It is up to the professional to explain the process and put them at ease.
Discernment is a great quality since this profession demands confidentiality. There may be all kinds of patients either submitting themselves or are doctor ordered for testing. Because of this, focus must be on safety at all times. A phlebotomist cannot afford to stick themselves or another patient with a used needle.
Training time varies greatly by school and program. It may be two months to a year to complete a program. In order to be accepted, a background check will be done and a physical required. To become certified, an exam will have to be taken. There are several agencies that will certify a phlebotomy student and the school will help with qualifying to take the exam.
Besides classes, practical experience is required. This is not only for the school and certifying agency but for the confidence of the entry level phlebotomist. Of course, their patients will be grateful to having an experienced professional. Choose classes either on a campus or online. Check with the certifying agency ahead of time, for whether or not they accept online courses.
The relevant courses that a training program may cover are anatomy, medical terminology and physiology. Lab procedure will also be a part of the program. They are all needed to know how to approach each patient regardless of age or medical condition. All of this is learned through certification.
