Phlebotomy Training and Careers in Texas
When you decide to enroll for phlebotomy training in the great state of Texas, you have joined the ranks of a proud group of people. Not everyone can do this type of work. Just knowing how to handle an individual and talk to them in a kind manner while you are drawing vials of blood from their arm or hand is the mark of a true professional phlebotomist.
There are fine vocational schools in Texas where you can enroll for phlebotomy training and then take a test to become certified. Here are some things you must do and obtain when you are planning to take a course in phlebotomy.
- You must have a high school diploma or GED
- Typing speed of twenty-five words a minute
- Proficiency with Windows, Microsoft Word
- You need to have basic computer skills
- Be prepared for mandatory drug screening
- Pass a criminal background check
- Up to date vaccine records These include tetanus, diphtheria, measles, rubella, mumps, chicken pox and Hepatitis B
- Negative test result for tuberculosis
Once you are all set to begin your course, you will attend 200 classroom hours and obtain 100 hours as an intern by working in a blood lab. The courses you will be taught include medical terminology; you will also learn CPR along with other things such as clinical practices and patient relationships and confidentiality. You will be expected to pass the certification exams before you graduate. The exams are offered by the American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians, the American Society of Clinical Pathologists, the American Medical Technologists and the National Phlebotomy Association.
You will also need to keep up with continuing education in your field once you become certified because of changes made within the industry. Once you have finished your phlebotomy training, you have received your Certification and you are now a graduate of phlebotomy, you will be able to look for a job in many doctor’s offices, health care clinics and laboratories. The median phlebotomist salary for a person who practices in the state of Texas as of May 2011 is a little over $29,000 per year. You can expect to earn a starting phlebotomist salary of between $10 and $14 an hour.
Phlebotomy Training Programs in Texas
