If you’re interested in becoming a phlebotomy technician and have started looking into options for enrolling in a phlebotomy certification program, you’ll probably already have realized that there are many choices out there. Programs for becoming a certified phlebotomy technician can be found at local hospitals, vocational schools, technical colleges, and community colleges. You may also enroll in online universities that will permit you to complete a great deal of your coursework in your own time from home. In this article, we’re going to look at a few of the factors to consider when choosing a phlebotomy technician certification program.
Local or Online
Perhaps the first question you should ask yourself is whether you are more likely to succeed in a physical classroom environment or in a virtual setting. Each person has a different style of learning and while online courses provide a great deal of flexibility, they aren’t for everyone. If you think you’ll perform better with hands on instruction, you’ll want to consider enrolling in a program locally. This option can also be terrific for developing local contacts within the field.
If you prefer to study and complete assignments in your own time or have responsibilities that limit your free time, an online course of study may work better for you.
Prerequisites
While prerequisites vary among institutions, generally you are expected to have a high school degree prior to being accepted into a phlebotomy technician training program. Some institutions require basic anatomy and physiology, however, all will expect you to be attentive to the subject matter and be comfortable handling all types of bodily fluids. If you’re interested in a particular program, be sure to investigate any prerequisites necessary prior to applying.
Length of Study
Phlebotomy technician training courses generally range from four months to one year in length. Again, this varies by institution, however, you’ll need to ask yourself how much time you’re willing to commit to a particular program.
Course Outline
At the end of the day, you’re only going to succeed in a program in which you enjoy the subject matter. Take a look at a course outline for any programs that you’re interested in applying to so that you can determine whether or not they will meet your unique needs and learning style. A typical course outline might include the following areas of study:
*Interpersonal skills training
*Human anatomy and physiology
*Lab quality control and best practices
*Medical terminology
*Blood collection equipment
*Infection control
*Safety
*Anatomical site selection
*Venipuncture procedures
*Post-puncture care
By evaluating each course completely and assessing how it will meet your professional needs, you’ll be sure to select a phlebotomy technician training program that will work best for you.
Related posts:
- What You Need to Know to Pursue a Career as a Phlebotomy Technician
- Begin Your Career as a Phlebotomy Technician
- What Is Involved in a Phlebotomy Technician Career
- Becoming a Phlebotomy Technician: What You Need to Know