Phlebotomy Information

Have you ever had blood taken in a doctor’s office or hospital? If you have, you have been seen by a phlebotomist. If the sight of blood doesn’t make you squirm and you would like a career in the medical field without going to school for nursing or to become a doctor, the field of phlebotomy might be a good choice for you.

Even though taking blood may seem like an easy craft, there is a lot more to it than you might think. A phlebotomist must know many of the same things a doctor or nurse knows – anatomy, chemistry, psychology as well as engineering and administration.

Phlebotomists must understand how the patient feels and be able to put them at ease while they take the blood samples. This may be difficult depending upon the circumstances and the age of the patient. The phlebotomist needs to know how to take the sample as painlessly as possible as well as properly labeling the sample to ensure the correct tests are done on it.

As a general rule, someone interested in phlebotomy can begin working after a short period of time. A phlebotomist certificate can be obtained in as little as four months to one year. However, you can also get an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in phlebotomy. Keep in mind the higher level your degree, the more options you will have in the future.

An Associate degree will focus on more than the physiology, equipment, procedure, technique and terminology associated with phlebotomy. It will require you to work toward general education as well as obtaining the skills you need for your chosen field. If you get an Associate degree, you may be able to move into either a medical assistant or laboratory technician whereas having the Certificate only will keep these doors closed to you.

Choosing to get the Bachelor’s degree will train you for positions as a supervisor or even a medical technologist. So, depending upon your career goals, you will want to choose which level of education you will pursue.

Contact your local hospital, trade school or community colleges to find out if they offer certificate programs in the field of phlebotomy. If there aren’t any local classes, you may be able to find an on-line alternative. Expect to spend between $1,500 and $3,500 for the basic phlebotomy courses to get your certificate. Be sure to take only courses which require hands-on clinical hours to receive the best training for the position.

Check with your state to see what type of licenses or registrations are necessary to be a phlebotomist. States do not all have the same requirements and you will want to ensure you meet those required by your state. Check with the Department of Health Services to learn what these requirements might be.

The need for qualified and skillful phlebotomists is great. This field is not for the squeamish. It might, however, be the right choice for you. Are you reading to forge ahead with phlebotomist training? If so, best of luck.

Synonyms: plebotomy, phebotomy, and phelbotomy are typos for "phlebotomy."