Phlebotomy Technician Training and Career Headquarters

Welcome to the Phlebotomy Technician Headquarters! Our mission is to help you successfully prepare for a career as a phlebotomy technician by providing you with information on phlebotomy jobs, testing, certification, careers, and phlebotomist salary data. Are you ready to change your future?

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How to Find Opportunities for Free Phlebotomy Training

Most phlebotomy programs will generally cost anywhere from $1000-$5000 depending on the school, but that is a lot of money. Believe it or not, you can actually become a phlebotomist for free. You can do this by looking for sponsors to pay for your education and training quite easily if you know where to look. Phlebotomy is a popular field that needs new employees to work in hospital, laboratories, and nursing homes. Here are some places to that you can find funding for your phlebotomy training.

Unemployment Programs

If you are currently unemployed and receiving unemployment checks or public assistance, then you may be able to obtain a scholarship or gain access to special funding for a phlebotomy program. You should consult with your local unemployment office and ask them about the programs they offer.

Job Corps Program

Free Phlebotomy TrainingThe Job Corps offers a lot of free and low cost programs to young adults between the ages of 18-25. If you are within their income and age guidelines, then you will likely be a candidate to receive their free training program. They offer training and classes in a wide variety of fields from healthcare to business.

Hospital Training Programs

If you happen to live in an area that has a lot of hospitals or a large medical school, then it is likely that one of these facilities offers a training program or fast track for phlebotomy. Also, if you already happen to work for one of these institutions then it is likely that they will offer some type of reduced cost training program or even a tuition reimbursement program. You can contact your human resource department for more information about what types of programs they offer.

Career Colleges and Trade Schools

Career colleges and trade schools often offer free or low cost training for those that would like to become a phlebotomist. There are some scholarships available as well depending on the school, so you will have to request more information from the school.

Rehabilitation Programs

There are a number of rehabilitation programs that offer funding for education and training. Rehabilitation programs for ex-offenders, drug addicts, and even physical rehabilitation for people with work related injuries are usually eligible to receive assistance for their education. You can find out more about this by visiting an unemployment office or job center.

Community colleges

Community colleges already offer most of their classes at a relatively low price as it is. Many community colleges offer scholarships to those that have a strong academic background or a significant amount of financial need. Phlebotomy programs are offered at many institutions and you can find out more about what they offer by contacting the financial aid office.

Scholarships and grants

Since you will be attending school like anyone else, you are still eligible for most of the scholarships and grants out there. You can look for grants and scholarships online or get a book from the library that has an extensive list of programs that you can apply for.

Becoming a phlebotomist is a rewarding career experience and you should be able to do that without taking out student loans. There is plenty of money available, but you will have to put forth some effort to find it. Try to look for funding before school starts and make it a rule to apply for everything that you are eligible for. You may not win every scholarship or get funding from every program, but chances are that you will end up with at least some funding for your education.

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Clinical Rotations During Phlebotomy Training

Would you be interested in working in a robust recession-proof field that is embedded in the health care industry, which means that you will routinely provide medical care and assistance to patients? Do you possess sound dexterity and the willingness to work in challenging and high pressure circumstances? Do you want a career in the medical field without having to face extensive and exhaustive classroom education and clinical training? You may want to consider pursuing a rewarding career in phlebotomy. As a phlebotomist, you will take, analyze and handle blood samples from patients. It is important that you are very focused and precise when working as a phlebotomist. You will develop critical skills in phlebotomy through clinical rotations. While it does not take too long to complete your phlebotomy training, you will need to successfully complete clinical rotations. Let’s take a look at what you can expect.

Phlebotomy Training ClinicalsDuring your series of clinical rotations in phlebotomy training, you can expect to work in a hospital or lab setting to perfect your understanding and ability to carry out important procedures in the field. You will absolutely practice completing venipunctures during your clinical rotations in phlebotomy training. With this important procedure, you will insert a safety needle into a patient’s vein and then you will attach the needle to tubes so that blood can be collected. It is important that you collect the proper amount of blood, apply proper pressure to the wound bandage it appropriately. This is the most common procedure involved in phlebotomy and you will learn more about it during your clinical rotations. The finger stick is another important procedure you will practice during clinical rotations. With this procedure, you prick the index finger, heel or foot of patients to draw blood. You can also expect to learn about the techniques and technology involved in analyzing blood samples, important safety protocol and proper ways to store blood.

If you have chosen to pursue a career in phlebotomy, feel confident knowing that you have chosen a field that boasts strong job prospects and is embedded in the health care industry, which means you will provide real medical service to patients. You must complete rigorous clinical rotations during your phlebotomy training. You will understand how to properly perform such procedures as venipunctures and finger stick. You will also be exposed to the technology in analyzing blood samples as well as important safety protocol.

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Continuing Education for Phlebotomists

If you are working as a phlebotomist, you should already know that it is vitally important to maintain certification and a solid skill set in specimen collection through means of continuing education. You should visit the National Phlebotomy Association website in order to understand specific continuing education requirements of phlebotomists. The National Phlebotomy Association was established in 1978 and is currently the only organization that handles all the aspects of educating and certifying the country’s phlebotomists. Let’s take a closer look at the important factors involved in continuing education for phlebotomists.

Phlebotomist Contiuing EducationAccording to the National Phlebotomy Association, phlebotomists must meet the current standard of 1.8 Continuing Education Units per year. This is to ensure that phlebotomists can meet and measure up to high standards. According to the National Phlebotomy Association, 1 Continuing Education Unit is equal to ten hours of training time. The National Phlebotomy Association has outlined several activities that can be applied toward the required credits. Certification and recertification classes in cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) by the American Heart Association or Red Cross can be applied toward the required credits. You might be interested in attending a relevant health care seminar or workshop, as attendance to such events can be applied toward the required credit threshold. Do you enjoy teaching? You can teach a phlebotomy training course and apply this to your necessary Continuing Education requirements. You could also complete relevant volunteer work or take further courses in a university or community college. The unifying theme around these activities is that they all help to keep your skills as a phlebotomist strong.

If you are working as a phlebotomist, you must continuously work on both maintaining and developing important skills necessary to do your job effectively. You can do some research and find the full list of activities approved by the National Phlebotomy Association that can be applied to required Continuing Education Units. You can choose those activities that you will likely enjoy and benefit the most from. If you have a passion for teaching, you may opt to teach a phlebotomy training course for some period of time. If you enjoy learning, you could enroll in a relevant university or community college course.

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Financial Assistance for Phlebotomy Training

Are you interested in pursuing a career in a robust recession-proof field that does not require exhaustive education and clinical training? You may want to consider a career in phlebotomy, which can be very rewarding and fulfilling. A phlebotomist is responsible for drawing and analyzing blood samples from patients or donors by means of scientific analysis. If you possess great dexterity, genuinely enjoy the opportunity to help others and work well under pressure situation, you may be ideally suited to work in phlebotomy. While you will not need exhaustive and time-consuming training to become a phlebotomist, you should expect to complete a training program that typically lasts between one semester and one year. After all, working in phlebotomy involves much more than just taking blood from patients. You will need to know the techniques involved in analyzing blood samples as well as proper safety protocols.

Phlebotomy TrainingIn order to receive financial aid for phlebotomy training, the first item on your checklist must be to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You must do some research and find independent scholarships you can apply to in order to receive some financial assistance as well. For example, the American Society for Clinical Pathology offers scholarship opportunities to aspiring phlebotomists based on educational goals. Other organizations offer general scholarships to individuals pursuing training for work in any part of the health care industry. Aid is often given on a first-come, first-serve basis and so it is absolutely vital that you are aware of all deadlines and submit your application material well in advance of deadlines.

If you want to minimize the cost of your phlebotomy training, it is important to research and compare the costs involved in various training programs. You may even want to consider potential online educational training programs for phlebotomy. While you will obviously have to complete hands-on training in a hospital or lab setting, you may be able to replace classroom education with online education, which can definitely save you some money.

If you have decided to pursue a career in phlebotomy, you should feel confident knowing that you are entering a profession in the health care industry that is in high demand and directly involved in helping others. It would be in your best interest to seek financial assistance by completing the FAFSA form and applying to independent scholarships. It is absolutely essential that you submit all your application material well in advance of posted deadlines. If you want to further minimize the cost of phlebotomy training, do some research on the cost of various programs and consider completing some portions of your training through online courses.

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Paying for Phlebotomist Training

Are you interested in pursuing a career as a phlebotomist but want to know how to find out the best ways to pay for phlebotomist training? There are several important characteristics you must possess in order to become a successful phlebotomist. You must be communicative, organized, careful, attentive to detail. It is also important that you have good eyesight and dexterity. The job prospects for phlebotomists are expected to be strong throughout the decade as it is protected by being a part of the healthcare industry. You must work hard in order to become a phlebotomist and complete extensive phlebotomy training. You must complete an accredited phlebotomist training program, which usually lasts between one semester to about a year. You will be required to both classroom work as well as clinical sessions, which commonly require at least 240 hours hands-on training.

Phlebotomist TrainingYou must first remember that public educational institutions will be cheaper than private institutions. Does enrolling in a private institution drastically improve your job prospects after completion? You must do some research on this issue. If not, you are much better off enrolling in a public institution or community in order to incur less debt. You should also look at the overall cost of living in the area you do choose to complete your training. It might be financially sound to relocate to another area with lower cost of living where you still enroll in an accredited phlebotomy training program. It is also important to note that a portion of your phlebotomist training may be completed online which can cut costs. However, you will still have to complete the extensive hands-on training required to become a phlebotomist. You can secure financial aid by completing FAFSA in January. Financial aid money is limited so it is to your advantage to complete the form as early as possible. Certain regions around the country desperately need phlebotomists and may even provide free training. Do some research and see if there are any areas like this that you may want to live in.

Working as a phlebotomist can be highly challenging and rewarding. In order to minimize or even eliminate the debt you will incur during the training program, you have to do some research. Compare tuition costs across a variety of training programs and examine cost of living in various areas that offer training. You should absolutely complete FAFSA as early as possible and look into different regions around the country that may offer free phlebotomist training.

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Phlebotomy Classes and Working Environments

Are you interested in pursuing a career as a phlebotomist and want to know more about what is involved in phlebotomy classes? This can be a great career choice since job prospects figure to be strong for phlebotomists throughout the decade. The demand for phlebotomists is expected to increase significantly because of the rapidly expanding older population, which requires more medical attention. Before you do ultimately make the decision to pursue this career, it is important that you are aware of the educational requirements involved in becoming a phlebotomist as well as the work environments you will be exposed to.

Phlebotomy ClassesAs far as high school is concerned, students who know they may want to pursue phlebotomy classes should focus on courses in such areas as algebra, geometry, biology, chemistry, physics, English and health. In addition to successfully completing high school and receiving your diploma, you will be required to graduate from an accredited phlebotomist program, which typically lasts between one semester to about a year. You will be required to complete a mix of both classroom work as well as clinical sessions, which typically require at least 240 hours hands-on training. Some of the most common topics you will learn about in a phlebotomist training program include the following: Venipuncture, capillary puncture, blood sample collection guidelines, maintaining blood sample integrity, cleaning and sterilization, infection control and storage and disposal guidelines.

What types of work environments will you be exposed to during your hands-on phlebotomy classes as well as in general when you work as a phlebotomist? You can expect to work in such places as hospitals, laboratories, physicians’ offices, blood banks, pharmaceuticals, research institutions and health clinics. If you believe you can handle the educational and hands-on training requirements of becoming a phlebotomist and enjoy working in these types of environments, you are an excellent candidate to pursue this career field.

In order to become a phlebotomist, you must have a high school diploma first and foremost. You must then apply to accredited phlebotomy classes where you will be exposed to a mix of classroom and hands-on training work. You should be prepared to work in such environments as hospitals, laboratories and blood banks.

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Choosing Your Phlebotomy Training Program

Are you interested in pursuing a career as a phlebotomist and wan to begin a phlebotomy training course? This can be a great career choice since job prospects figure to be strong for upcoming decade, as the population of older people continues to expand rapidly. A career as a phlebotomist can be highly rewarding since you will providing an important medical services to patients. One of the important stops on your journey to becoming a phlebotomist is a phlebotomy training program. A quality training program will teach you about all the important functions of working as a phlebotomist. While in the training program, you will learn about anatomy and physiology, blood and cell composition, blood sampling procedures, laboratory safety and CPR.

Phlebotomy TrainingHow do you go about selecting a phlebotomy training program that is appropriate for you? There are going to be several options in front of you and so it very important you do your research before making a decision. Location is one of the most important things you must factor after you have decided you want to enroll in a phlebotomist training program. If you want to enroll in a program close to your home, your choices may be limited. However, if you are willing to move, you are likely to have many more choices. If salary is important to you and you do not want to relocate upon completing your training program, you may want to consider looking into phlebotomist training programs in Connecticut, Tennessee, Alaska, Hawaii and Minnesota. These states all have higher average salaries for phlebotomists in comparison to the national average.

Additionally, you will also want to consider the completion time various training programs will require. Typical completion times for phlebotomist training programs range from one semester to one year. Do you want to finish the program quickly and join the workforce immediately? Would you rather take your time and go at a slower pace? These are important questions you must ask yourself when selecting a training program to enroll in. Also, be completely positive that you enroll an accredited phlebotomist training program. This will enhance your reputation and convey to prospective employers that you received a high quality education and training.

When selecting a phlebotomist training program to enroll in, you have to really take a look at such factors as location, completion time and whether or not the programs you are interested in are fully accredited. Selecting the best possible phlebotomy program will be important to your future job prospects and immediate earning potential.

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Recommended Reading for the Aspiring Phlebotomy Technician

If you’re considering a career as a phlebotomy technician, one of the best places to learn more about the vocation is by reading through one of the available books dedicated to this exciting profession. There are currently many different guides and manuals to begin with if you’re interested in becoming a phlebotomy technician. These range from study guides for certification exams to handbook manuals for practicing phlebotomists. Many of these texts can give you a great insight into what the field involves and the types of tasks which you may encounter whether working in a private lab, hospital, blood bank, or community health clinic. In this article, we’ll share a few of our recommended books for the aspiring phlebotomy technician to help you get a feel for this rewarding vocation.

Phlebotomy Handbook by Diana Garza and Kathleen Becan-McBride

The Phlebotomy Handbook is currently in it’s 8th edition which was released in 2009 and is a comprehensive manual which illustrates current techniques in blood specimen collection and the rules and regulations which the phlebotomy technician will be required to understand in practice. It also covers safety and disease prevention techniques, equipment usage, and specimen quality control and assurance. Whether your just interested in learning more about the field or are preparing to begin phlebotomy training or certification, this manual is an excellent resource for understanding the current landscape of the profession

Phlebotomy Simplified by Diana Garza and Kathleen Becan-McBride

Phlebotomy Simplified, another manual produced by the authoritative duo of Diana Garza and Kathleen Becan-McBride, offers many of the topics covered in the more comprehensive Phlebotomy Handbook, however the topics are covered in a much more straightforward manner. This text is a great starting point for those who might be interested in becoming a phlebotomy technician, however have not yet started any formal training on the field. It’s current edition also includes a CD which covers many of the topics presented in the book in a format which can be used on the go.

Phlebotomy Essentials by Ruth E. McCall and Cathee M. Tankersley

Phlebotomy Essentials makes a great resource for anyone interested in learning the fundamental techniques required of the phlebotomy technician and currently includes a fantastic CD-ROM with many great multi-media resources such as videos, flash cards, animations, as well as a comprehensive glossary. The current edition has been completely updated with the latest techniques and procedures which are presented in a full-color format.

Whether your interested in becoming a phlebotomy technician, or are already on your way, these three resources are some of the best in the field in presenting comprehensive information relating to the practice of phlebotomy.

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3 Steps to Certification as a Phlebotomy Technician

As you’re likely aware, a phlebotomy technician is responsible for drawing blood in a variety of health care environments. Due to the risk of infectious disease transfer and sample integrity, the phlebotomy technician will very likely require certification depending on the requirements of the employer. While many states do not legally mandate that a phlebotomy technician gain official certification, it is always best to undergo this process to broaden your available work opportunities.

As mentioned, the phlebotomy technician may be employed in a variety of environments including private labs, community hospitals, health clinics, and private practices. In order to successfully prepare yourself for a career as a phlebotomy technician, in this article we will outline the three steps to successful phlebotomy certification.

Step 1

The first step in working toward certification as a phlebotomy technician is to locate an accredited educational program, either locally or online. You need to thoroughly evaluate various programs to determine which ones best suit your unique requirements and learning styles. Feel free to read our article on “Choosing a Phlebotomy Technician School” to learn more about the specific aspects of each individual program that you should evaluate. This will help to ensure that you receive the best education to meet your needs.

Step 2

Secondly, you need to effectively prepare for your program of choice. The most important preparation is to ensure that you meet all of the necessary prerequisite requirements for attendance. This can vary largely by institution, however, nearly all will require that you have a high school diploma or the equivalent. If you do not currently meet this requirement, consider getting started on this right away. Some programs will allow you to apply on a conditional basis, which indicates you intention to successfully complete this requirement prior to admittance.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to seek out volunteer opportunities in the field. Many of these can be found at local blood banks and investing a few hours of your time in a volunteer setting can go a long way in successfully preparing you for your phlebotomy technician training program.

Step 3

Lastly, you should apply to the program of your choice and successfully complete the course requirements. The amount of time this requires will also vary depending on the institution which you choose to attend. During your education, be aware that your school very likely will offer job placement assistance and it’s never too early to begin visiting with the career advisors within your program. They can be of tremendous help in locating a rewarding employment opportunity.

If you’re considering a rewarding career as a phlebotomy technician, think about beginning to take these steps to get you on your way to an exciting and challenging vocation.

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How Much Does a Phlebotomy Technician Program Cost?

One of the questions we often hear from individuals interested in beginning a career as a phlebotomy technician is “How much will all of this training cost?” This is a valid concern for anyone who is about to set out on the journey to becoming a certified phlebotomy technician. Prior to making an investment in your future, you want to know just how much you can expect to have to pay to determine if the rewards and benefits of the career are worth the time, effort, and cost of obtaining training and certification. In this article, we’re going to take a look at what you can expect phlebotomy training and certification to cost.

Ultimately, the type of phlebotomy technician training program which you enroll in will have the most significant effect on cost. There are quite a few options available and many aspiring phlebotomists will choose to attend a 2-years associate’s degree program through a local community college. These programs begin with general education requirements and then progress on to specific course work in phlebotomy training. Due to the fact that you can very often qualify for government grants, loans, and public and private scholarships for attending accredited associate’s degree programs, the cost of this option can end up being relatively inexpensive or in a few cases, free for the student.

Even without financial assistance, the cost of the associate’s degree program can be relatively inexpensive. Typically, the cost of tuition at local community colleges is only a few hundred dollars per semester (excluding the cost of materials and books). And while this option may require more time than a certificate-type program, it is generally a more sound educational foundation and hence, more attractive to prospective employers.

If you don’t have the time or desire to attend an associate’s degree program, you may choose a phlebotomy certificate program. A certificate program allows the aspiring phlebotomy technician to complete a specialized training course in under a year. These programs exclude the general education requirements associated with 2-years college degree programs and thus are able to be completed much more quickly. The downside of this option can be cost. Many phlebotomy technician certificate programs can cost upwards of $2,000 for less than a year of training.

If you are interested in a career as a phlebotomist, you will have several educational options available to you at varying costs of attendance. By choosing one that suits your budget, time constraints, and learning style, you’ll be on your way to a rewarding career as a phlebotomy technician on no time.