Because of the relatively low time and money needed to become a certified phlebotomist, many people seeking for employment in the medical profession search for training programs and classes in phlebotomy. Phlebotomy is the practice of collecting blood from patients for tests and diagnosis. Although there are numerous phlebotomy classes available in the market, it is important to choose the one that is accredited by reputable phlebotomy associations, and one that has a proven track record of successful students who have passed certification exams. Accredited private and public phlebotomy schools, community colleges, nursing schools, and a few online phlebotomy classes provide the necessary training to become a phlebotomist.
What do I Learn in Phlebotomy Classes?
In a typical phlebotomy technician program, the primary goal is to develop students to effectively draw blood patients. In the past few decades, the equipments and techniques used to collect blood samples have advanced tremendously, and phlebotomy technicians need to learn specialized methods to utilize such equipments. Finding the right vein and learning the skill to puncture skin with minimal pain are also essential aspects of becoming an effective phlebotomist. Even after learning to collect blood, students need to develop technical skills and knowledge about testing blood samples, and properly handling and preserving blood samples.
Besides these technical aspects of phlebotomy classes, aspiring student must learn “human” skills. Because drawing blood may be frightening or unnerving for patients, phlebotomists need to be able to comfort and make the patients relax during the procedure. Phlebotomy technician schools almost always have classes related to the safety and well being of the patients, as most certified phlebotomy technicians will go on to work in hospitals and medical institutions, in which patient’s health is the most important. Creating patient rapport can be an innate ability for some, but it can be further developed in phlebotomy courses.
How do I Become a Certified Phlebotomist?
Most hospitals and medical clinics, unfortunately, will not hire candidates who have only completed training programs, even from reputable institutions. Candidates will need to acquire phlebotomy certification in order to be successfully employed in most states (and even in states that do not necessarily require a certification for phlebotomy). After attaining a diploma degree or completion diploma in an accredited phlebotomy training school, the candidates should prepare for and take the certification exam.
Three major associations provide certification for phlebotomy. The oldest and nationally recognized entity is the American Society of Clinical Pathology, in which candidates can apply for the Phlebotomy Technician certificate exam (PBT). Most, if not all, hospitals and medical institutions will accept the certification from the ASCP. Secondly, the American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians also offers certification that is highly respected. The ASPT was founded in 1983, and is also nationally recognized. Lastly, the National Phlebotomy Association also offers certification to aspiring candidates. All three of the associations require that candidates either have prior working experience as a phlebotomist or more importantly if the candidate has successfully completed phlebotomy training courses from accredited institutions.
