Phlebotomy Technician Training Program: An Introduction For Prospective Students

As a patient, you may have to get blood drawn or an IV inserted into your vein when you go to the doctor, if you make a trip to the emergency room, and sometimes for just a basic physical. Because the human blood provides so much insight into the health of an individual, phlebotomists are always in high demand in the medical field. If you are looking to break into the medical field and want employment stability, a phlebotomy technician training program is the ideal place to start. Here are a few of the biggest questions about phlebotomy training programs and the answers you will want to know. 

How long does it take to complete a phlebotomy technician training program?

Part of the reason why becoming a phlebotomist is such an attractive way for individuals to start out in the medical industry is because the training is short in duration. In most cases, phlebotomy certification programs can be completed in just a few semesters or between four and eight months, depending on what type of program you enroll in and what school offers it. 

Where can you find phlebotomy training programs?

Phlebotomy training programs are not offered specifically by schools set aside for medical training, but instead by most community colleges and major universities. If you have a local college or university, it is a good idea to check to see if they have a program available. Additionally, there are some online programs available from accredited universities which offer convenient courses that can be mostly completed at home.

What are some of the responsibilities you would have as a certified phlebotomist?

Once you have completed your training as a phlebotomy technician, you will have the skills necessary to perform basic blood-related medical treatments. Some of the usual responsibilities of a phlebotomist include the following:

• drawing blood and properly handling the specimen
• transporting withdrawn blood samples through the medical facility to labs
• using a computer to enter patient data
• helping patients understand phlebotomy procedures
• correctly disposing of tools used during blood work, such as needles and tourniquets 

How much do phlebotomy technicians make?

The salary of a phlebotomist ranges, according to where you live and what type of facility you work in. According to Chron.com, phlebotomists tend to make a salary range of of $25,177 to $30,470 annually. As a phlebotomy supervisor, which requires experience and additional training, you could make as much as $41,766.

For more information on becoming a phlebotomist, talk to a professional like Western Career Training.