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How to become a phlebotomist?
Tell us everything we need to do to become a phlebotomist.
Note: We've seen a lot of interest in this career, so we're looking for guidance from our community of professionals
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6 answers
Rosemarie Fitzsimons
Medical laboratory scientist
2
Answers
East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania
Updated
Rosemarie’s Answer
Hello
To become a phlebotomist I would recommend applying to a credited program, a lot of technical schools as well as community colleges offer programs. Once you complete your program you can then become certified by completing the ASCP phlebotomist exam.
Best of luck and all labs are always in need of great phlebotomist!
To become a phlebotomist I would recommend applying to a credited program, a lot of technical schools as well as community colleges offer programs. Once you complete your program you can then become certified by completing the ASCP phlebotomist exam.
Best of luck and all labs are always in need of great phlebotomist!
Gabriella Octayeriani
Medical lab technicinan
1
Answer
West Java, West Java
Updated
Gabriella’s Answer
Hi, there.
To become a phlebotomist, you'll need to complete an accredited program. Some states require you to obtain a professional certificate. Here are the steps you should take to become one:
1. Apply for a phlebotomy program.
To enter this career, you will only need a high school diploma or GED at minimum. Once you have that, you can apply for an accredited phlebotomy program. This usually requires:
- Filling out and submitting an application
- Proof of graduating from high school with a minimum GPA
- CPR certification
- Background check
- Immunization records
2. Complete the program.
Phlebotomy programs take approximately one year to complete. They involve coursework and hands-on training. In a program, you'll learn what a phlebotomist does day-to-day, methods for collecting blood samples, labelling and storing blood, standards and codes to adhere to, and patient safety.
3. Earn a certificate.
Even if you plan to work in a state that does not require phlebotomy certification, you may find it helpful to complete certification to get that first job. Completing the certification process shows that you have classroom and clinical experience and passed a test to demonstrate your field knowledge.
4. Take the certification exam.
5. Continue your education.
Once you have phlebotomy certification, you may need to take continuing education courses to keep the credential or stay eligible to practice in your state. Each state has its own set of requirements for maintaining your license. For example, New York does not require you to have a license unless you intend to perform tests on the sample you collect
To become a phlebotomist, you'll need to complete an accredited program. Some states require you to obtain a professional certificate. Here are the steps you should take to become one:
1. Apply for a phlebotomy program.
To enter this career, you will only need a high school diploma or GED at minimum. Once you have that, you can apply for an accredited phlebotomy program. This usually requires:
- Filling out and submitting an application
- Proof of graduating from high school with a minimum GPA
- CPR certification
- Background check
- Immunization records
2. Complete the program.
Phlebotomy programs take approximately one year to complete. They involve coursework and hands-on training. In a program, you'll learn what a phlebotomist does day-to-day, methods for collecting blood samples, labelling and storing blood, standards and codes to adhere to, and patient safety.
3. Earn a certificate.
Even if you plan to work in a state that does not require phlebotomy certification, you may find it helpful to complete certification to get that first job. Completing the certification process shows that you have classroom and clinical experience and passed a test to demonstrate your field knowledge.
4. Take the certification exam.
5. Continue your education.
Once you have phlebotomy certification, you may need to take continuing education courses to keep the credential or stay eligible to practice in your state. Each state has its own set of requirements for maintaining your license. For example, New York does not require you to have a license unless you intend to perform tests on the sample you collect
Muhammad Umair Saeed
Doctor
1
Answer
Multan, Punjab, Pakistan
Updated
Muhammad Umair’s Answer
Here's a simplified version for students:
Finish High School: Graduate from high school or get your GED.
Take a Course: Join a phlebotomy training program. These are like classes that teach you how to draw blood safely and properly.
Get Certified (Optional): You can take a test to become certified. It's not always needed, but it can help you get a job.
Practice: Look for jobs where you can practice drawing blood, like at hospitals or clinics.
Keep Learning: Keep learning new things about phlebotomy and healthcare.
Be Kind and Careful: Be nice to patients and pay attention to details. It's important to make people feel comfortable when you draw their blood.
Check State Rules: Make sure you follow any rules your state has about phlebotomy.
That's it! Keep learning and practicing, and you'll become a great phlebotomist
Finish High School: Graduate from high school or get your GED.
Take a Course: Join a phlebotomy training program. These are like classes that teach you how to draw blood safely and properly.
Get Certified (Optional): You can take a test to become certified. It's not always needed, but it can help you get a job.
Practice: Look for jobs where you can practice drawing blood, like at hospitals or clinics.
Keep Learning: Keep learning new things about phlebotomy and healthcare.
Be Kind and Careful: Be nice to patients and pay attention to details. It's important to make people feel comfortable when you draw their blood.
Check State Rules: Make sure you follow any rules your state has about phlebotomy.
That's it! Keep learning and practicing, and you'll become a great phlebotomist
Cherelle Maddox
30
Answers
Updated
Cherelle’s Answer
Hey there!
After completing your high school diploma, the next step to becoming a phlebotomist in California is to attend a phlebotomy training program from an institution approved by the CDPH (California Department of Health), then you have to take a national certification exam through a California recognized certifying body then after passing your national certification exam, you can pursue state licensure and apply to new jobs as a phlebotomist! Also, make sure to keep your credentials current! Certifications usually only last c 2 years but this could change so always stay informed!
Hope this helps and best of luck!
After completing your high school diploma, the next step to becoming a phlebotomist in California is to attend a phlebotomy training program from an institution approved by the CDPH (California Department of Health), then you have to take a national certification exam through a California recognized certifying body then after passing your national certification exam, you can pursue state licensure and apply to new jobs as a phlebotomist! Also, make sure to keep your credentials current! Certifications usually only last c 2 years but this could change so always stay informed!
Hope this helps and best of luck!
Ali Swenson
Medical assistant
1
Answer
Madison, Wisconsin
Updated
Ali’s Answer
Hi, if you are looking for an easy way to become a phlebotomist and not go to school, apply to American Red Cross or a plasmaphereis center. Frequently they do on the job training and always seem to be in a constant need for a new people to work. They accept entry level no experience for these positions. You will get experience free training and the job hours required to actually become certified, like NHA. After that you can apply for any state licensure if that’s required. Even entry level jobs like patient care technician at the hospital or clinic are good ways to start and expressing to your superiors that you would like to do more like blood draw, can get you in the steps to be trained and delegated these tasks. As well as get you hours and the employment verification for certifications or licensure.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3888
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear CVOH,
Embarking on a Phlebotomy Career
The journey to becoming a phlebotomist involves a series of specific steps, typically encompassing education, training, certification, and practical experience. Here's an in-depth guide to help you navigate the process of becoming a phlebotomist:
1. Educational Prerequisites:
Earn a high school diploma or GED: This is a prerequisite for most phlebotomy training programs.
Join a phlebotomy training course: Seek accredited phlebotomy courses offered by community colleges, vocational schools, or healthcare institutions. These courses, ranging from a few weeks to a year, delve into subjects like anatomy, physiology, blood collection techniques, and safety protocols.
2. Training and Certification:
Finish a phlebotomy training course: Engage in practical training to master venipuncture techniques, proper specimen handling, and infection prevention measures.
Acquire hands-on experience: Some courses offer clinical internships or externships, providing an opportunity to hone your skills under supervision.
Secure certification: Certification requirements differ by state, but many employers favor or mandate certified phlebotomists. Renowned certifications include the Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) from organizations such as the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) or the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).
3. Essential Skills and Traits:
Cultivate robust communication skills: Phlebotomists communicate with patients daily, making effective communication a necessity.
Focus on detail: Accuracy in blood sample collection is vital to ensure precise test results.
Demonstrate compassion and empathy: Patients might be nervous about blood draws, so a compassionate approach can help alleviate their anxiety.
4. Career Prospects and Progression:
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) forecasts a 17% growth in phlebotomist employment from 2019 to 2029, a rate significantly higher than the average for all professions.
Phlebotomists can enhance their careers by pursuing additional education or specializing in fields like pediatric phlebotomy or donor phlebotomy.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used in Crafting this Answer:
American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP): The ASCP provides phlebotomist certification and valuable information on education and training prerequisites.
National Healthcareer Association (NHA): The NHA is a trusted entity offering certification for healthcare professionals, including phlebotomists.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS offers data on job prospects, salary details, and educational prerequisites for various professions, including phlebotomists.
May God bless you!
James Constantine.
Embarking on a Phlebotomy Career
The journey to becoming a phlebotomist involves a series of specific steps, typically encompassing education, training, certification, and practical experience. Here's an in-depth guide to help you navigate the process of becoming a phlebotomist:
1. Educational Prerequisites:
Earn a high school diploma or GED: This is a prerequisite for most phlebotomy training programs.
Join a phlebotomy training course: Seek accredited phlebotomy courses offered by community colleges, vocational schools, or healthcare institutions. These courses, ranging from a few weeks to a year, delve into subjects like anatomy, physiology, blood collection techniques, and safety protocols.
2. Training and Certification:
Finish a phlebotomy training course: Engage in practical training to master venipuncture techniques, proper specimen handling, and infection prevention measures.
Acquire hands-on experience: Some courses offer clinical internships or externships, providing an opportunity to hone your skills under supervision.
Secure certification: Certification requirements differ by state, but many employers favor or mandate certified phlebotomists. Renowned certifications include the Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) from organizations such as the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) or the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).
3. Essential Skills and Traits:
Cultivate robust communication skills: Phlebotomists communicate with patients daily, making effective communication a necessity.
Focus on detail: Accuracy in blood sample collection is vital to ensure precise test results.
Demonstrate compassion and empathy: Patients might be nervous about blood draws, so a compassionate approach can help alleviate their anxiety.
4. Career Prospects and Progression:
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) forecasts a 17% growth in phlebotomist employment from 2019 to 2029, a rate significantly higher than the average for all professions.
Phlebotomists can enhance their careers by pursuing additional education or specializing in fields like pediatric phlebotomy or donor phlebotomy.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used in Crafting this Answer:
American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP): The ASCP provides phlebotomist certification and valuable information on education and training prerequisites.
National Healthcareer Association (NHA): The NHA is a trusted entity offering certification for healthcare professionals, including phlebotomists.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS offers data on job prospects, salary details, and educational prerequisites for various professions, including phlebotomists.
May God bless you!
James Constantine.