Phlebotomy Certification

A phlebotomist is a medical technician who draws blood from lab and hospital patients. Nurses are often trained in phlebotomy and draw blood from patients; however, many hospitals and labs employ phlebotomists to work in their labs. Surprisingly, only two states require phlebotomy certification, California and Louisiana. Technically, anyone working under the supervision of someone trained in the medical profession can draw blood in the remaining 48 states. However, while only the two states require certification, it is almost impossible to get a job as a phlebotomist without the certification.

Many people who plan to pursue a medical career in nursing often start as phlebotomists. The training and certification do not take long to achieve, and an already working knowledge of the health field can often give them an advantage as they pursue their nursing degree. By pursuing and obtaining phlebotomy certification, prospective phlebotomists are telling potential employees that they have the training and knowledge to work in the laboratory setting.

There are three organizations that currently offer phlebotomy certification:
American Society for Clinical Pathology, Association of Phlebotomy Technicians and the National Phlebotomy Association.

Each of these requires a high school diploma or GED, 140-160 classroom hours of phlebotomy training, and 100 unassisted blood draws. If a person hoping to achieve certification can show proof of six months of full time or one year of part time on the job experience, the classroom training requirement is waived.

It is recommended that a person wishing to become a certified phlebotomist attend training at a school. Phlebotomy programs are generally offered at either community colleges, technical colleges, or allied health sciences schools. Many schools do not teach for the certification; they teach for experience. If the school attended does not offer certification training, then a student should seek an internship to gain the necessary on the job training.

Besides drawing blood, certified phlebotomists are also trained in maintaining data for patients medical records, properly disposing of sharps, sterilizing equipment and filing lab slips and reports. Phlebotomists, like any trained medical professional, are also trained in CPR.

Certified phlebotomists can find employment in hospitals, nursing homes, hospices, and clinical laboratories. Salaries range from $10-$17 per hour depending upon geography and place of employment. Large hospitals pay more, however, smaller practices may offer better working hours. All phlebotomists receive a health care package equal to other medical professionals at their place of employment.