There are several ways to start on this career path; one option is to enroll in a phlebotomy program at a vocational school . You can also pursue certification or a degree in medical assisting, which usually includes phlebotomy training.
Can you become a phlebotomist without a degree?
While certification is not required in all states it does increase employability. California, Louisiana, Nevada, and Washington do require phlebotomists to hold a certification . ... Hold a current CPR certification. Have graduated from high school or have obtained a GED.
Is it hard to get a job as a phlebotomist with no experience?
The good news is it’s relatively easy to get certified as a phlebotomist . It only takes a few extra weeks of training. Once you’ve completed those weeks, you’ll be able to take a phlebotomy certification exam. Certification alone may not be enough to get you hired by a medical facility.
Is it worth being a phlebotomist?
Is being a phlebotomist worth it? Being a phlebotomist can be a rewarding career choice . People in this career enjoy job stability, are able to help others every day and are able to enter this career with very little required education or training.
How long does it take to train to be a phlebotomist?
Training programs generally take 3-6 months and cover basic hematology, venipuncture techniques, appropriate site selection, routine processing, safety, and infection control procedures. The 40 hours phlebotomy practice includes at least 50 venipunctures and ten skin punctures.
Is the phlebotomy exam hard?
The most recognized certification agencies are the American Society for Clinical Pathology, the American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians, and the National Phlebotomy Association. ... Despite this, phlebotomy certification exams are not too difficult.
Where do phlebotomist make the most money?
The states and districts that pay Phlebotomists the highest mean salary are California ($45,940) , District of Columbia ($43,820), New York ($42,950), Alaska ($42,100), and Washington ($41,380).
What type of education is required for a phlebotomist?
Complete a phlebotomy education course. Hold a current CPR certification . Have graduated from high school or have obtained a GED. Complete the required clinical training either with a required number of on the job training hours or a number of venipunctures.
What two skills are important for phlebotomy?
- Compassion. A Phlebotomist’s primary duty is drawing blood. ...
- Detail oriented. Phlebotomists must draw the correct vials of blood for the tests ordered, track vials of blood, and enter data into a database. ...
- Hand–eye coordination. ...
- Ability to Multitask. ...
- Team Player.
What is the hardest part of being a phlebotomist?
Phlebotomists have a challenging job that requires knowledge, dedication, and amazing attention to detail . Not all sticks and draws go smoothly, even for the most experienced phlebotomists. Different patients can present unique challenges, and communication across units sometimes isn’t as clear as it could be.
Do phlebotomist work 12 hour shifts?
Phlebotomists typically work 40 hours a week but may work overtime hours in clinical and hospital environments.
What are the cons of being a phlebotomist?
- Exposure to pathogens. ...
- Risk of Needlestick injuries. ...
- Long Work hours. ...
- Encounters with Angry and rude people. ...
- Some people may be hard sticks. ...
- The low margin of error. ...
- How is your bedside manner? ...
- Long hours of standing.
Does phlebotomy hurt?
In the hands of a skilled phlebotomist or nurse, a blood draw shouldn’t be painful , but you may experience some brief discomfort. Regardless of whether having your blood drawn is no big deal or a major issue for you, some quick preparation for your blood draw can make the process much easier.
How many questions is the phlebotomy exam?
The National Certified Phlebotomy Technician Exam contains approximately 150 questions . 25 of these questions do not count toward the test taker’s overall score. However, the remaining 125 questions do. The exam is also timed.
What is the difference between a phlebotomist and a lab tech?
Both phlebotomists and lab technicians collect bodily fluids from patients . However, phlebotomists take only blood samples and perform more clerical tasks such as printing orders and storing supplies. ... Lab technicians, on the other hand, help lab technologists collect samples and run tests in a laboratory.
Can you live off a phlebotomist salary?
The numbers show that the average annual salary for phlebotomy technicians is $32,710 , according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. But this is just an average! As everything else in life, if you are ready and willing to work hard for it, you can achieve anything.
