Phlebotomy Training for a Better Career

If you are looking for a more stable career or just a change from what you are currently doing, you may want to consider phlebotomy. Phlebotomists draw blood samples from patients so the samples can be analyzed in a laboratory. Being a phlebotomist can be a rewarding career, as you get to work with a variety of people each day and can work in a number of professional settings. Phlebotomists work in hospitals, clinics, private practices, drug testing centers, and even blood banks. If you're interested in this career, review this phlebotomy training information to see if it's something you'd like to do.

Some schools offer a single phlebotomy course, which will give you the basic information you need to become a phlebotomist. Other schools have comprehensive programs that include basic anatomy, CPR training, and science. Both programs will allow you to become a phlebotomist, so the phlebotomy training school you select will be based on the tuition and class schedule, as well as its reputation. If you need to attend class at night or on weekends, your options may be more limited than those who are able to attend school on weekdays.

Phlebotomy training programs typically combine classroom lecture and demonstration with hands-on training. Once the instructor feels that you have a solid grasp of the theory, you may be allowed to practice blood draws on dummies or on your fellow students. You will also learn about universal precautions, protecting yourself from bloodborne illnesses, and what order to draw tubes of blood in when a doctor has ordered several tests. If you enroll in a more comprehensive phlebotomy training program, you may also learn about basic anatomy as well as CPR and first aid.

Once you have completed your phlebotomy training, you can begin looking for employment. Depending on your schedule and interests, you can work as an in-home phlebotomist, draw blood in a hospital lab, work in a clinic, or even work at a blood bank. This flexibility will allow you to build a rewarding phlebotomy career.

For more information on what phlebotomists do and how you can become a phlebotomist, refer to the following Bright Hub articles.

Broyles, Robyn. "How to Become a Phlebotomist." Published February 24, 2009. Bright Hub Medical Science Channel.

Trix, Victoria. "Phlebotomists Duties: What Exactly Does a Phlebotomist Do?" Published January 31, 2009. Bright Hub Medical Science Channel.