Phlebotomy Education Requirements, Job Duties, and Certification

Phlebotomy

Phlebotomy is the practice of drawing blood from a patient by puncturing a vein, usually in the arm. The process is also called venipuncture. The blood is used for various medical purposes, including intravenous therapy. This article will cover the education requirements, job duties, and certification. Considering a career in this field? Read on to learn more. Phlebotomy is a growing career field that offers several rewarding opportunities.

Career outlook

A phlebotomy certification can open up a number of career opportunities. Phlebotomy jobs are expected to grow by 27 percent between 2012 and 2022, far more than the average increase in the U.S. The medical industry is a recession-proof field, which means that there will be more jobs than people who want to fill them. If you are interested in a steady job and a higher wage, a phlebotomy certification might be the right choice for you.

As a phlebotomy technician, you may work in a hospital or clinic around the clock, earning a high salary and shift-differential pay. To become a phlebotomist, you can attend an accredited program that will provide you with classroom training and on-the-job experience. Many colleges offer associate degree programs in this field, and you can also choose a bachelor's degree program in medical technology if you have the time and desire. In addition to a better job outlook, a degree will help you earn a higher salary and advance in your career.

Education requirements

There are many different types of education requirements for phlebotomy, which vary depending on your location. You can pursue on-the-job training or enroll in an accredited training course. To earn national certification, you should attend an accredited program. You can search for programs accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS).

You will need to complete a training course that focuses on phlebotomy, which can be completed at community colleges or universities. Some colleges will have a short-term certificate program in laboratory phlebotomy. The curriculum teaches you how to perform blood collection, medical terminology, and ethics. The program will also require an eight-week clinical externship. It is a one-year program that is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). You can also transfer your phlebotomy certificate to a four-year college or university.

Job duties

Job duties of a Phlebotomy technician include identifying patients and evaluating their history and needs. Blood specimens are collected using standard equipment, such as vaccutainer tubes and butterfly needles, and they analyze the collected samples for the purpose of identifying diseases. They also maintain patient identification, record collection information on proper requisitions, and provide reports to physicians. They may also perform clerical work, such as keeping records of the patients' blood samples.

While phlebotomists primarily draw blood from patients, they may also perform other related tasks when necessary. Phlebotomists typically work during daytime shifts, but some work overnight or on weekends, or on holidays. They spend most of their time with patients, preparing samples, and keeping records of the blood samples. They are also responsible for maintaining inventory of blood collection and laboratory equipment.

Certification

There are four states that require certification in phlebotomy, but New York State does not. However, to work in a healthcare facility, you need a license. To earn certification, you must complete a training program and complete an exam or oral exam, which must be passed to become a phlebotomy technician. Certification is also available to other healthcare professionals, such as laboratory technicians and registered nurses.

There are several organizations that certify this profession. The American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians is one of them. This organization offers a number of phlebotomy certifications, continuing education, and testing. Listed below are the three major agencies that offer certification. These agencies also offer continuing education, including the Phlebotomy Technician Certification. The American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians offers continuing education programs and certification testing.

Needle stick injury

Needle stick injuries in the healthcare setting are an unfortunate reality. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 385, 000 people are injured annually by needles in the United States. Among nursing employees, the most common type of injury is a hollow-bore needle. Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce the risk of needlesticks in your workplace. Listed below are some tips for reducing the risk of needlestick injuries during phlebotomy.

Needles used in phlebotomy can be contaminated and accidentally penetrate skin. Needles can inject dangerous fluids into the body, but also puncture the skin when suddenly and accidentally handled. Blood splatter is another unregulated risk. Blood that contacts mucous membranes can spread a variety of infectious diseases. In a pinch, there are many ways to reduce the risk of needlestick injuries during phlebotomy.