Everything you need to know about becoming a phlebotomist

Becoming a phlebotomist

A phlebotomist is a healthcare professional specially trained to obtain blood samples or donations from patients. When people need to have bloodwork done, they will visit a phlebotomist at a local laboratory or within a hospital. 

What does a phlebotomist do?

A phlebotomist is trained in a variety of procedures all to do with the collection and testing of patient blood samples. A phlebotomist can perform micro-collections and venipunctures and can process specimens within the lab.

Samples can be collected for a variety of reasons, including transfusions, clinical tests, donations, or research. Phlebotomists use a cannula to pierce a vein and collect the blood samples required. In specialized cases, they are also able to collect samples from a finger stick or a heel stick (used for infants).

Doctors and nurses are trained in phlebotomy as well. But with the high demand for blood tests in hospitals and from doctor’s offices, phlebotomists are constantly busy. The process of drawing blood isn’t as simple as you might assume. A phlebotomist is also tasked with:

• Interpreting tests required from requisitions
• Selecting the correct specimen collection tubes with specific additives in each
• Explaining to patients what’s happening
• Developing rapport with patients and showing compassion
• Following standards for their specific state and laboratory
• Ensuring the puncture site has returned to homeostasis
• Providing post-phlebotomy instructions to patients
• Applying labels to samples and delivering them to the lab
• Cleaning and sterilizing equipment 

How do you become a phlebotomist?

Much of the training when becoming a phlebotomist occurs on-the-job. However, most people will enter into a post-secondary program for phlebotomy after graduating from high school or obtaining their GED. 

Every state will have specific requirements for training and certification of phlebotomists, so it’s important to check on your state’s specifics. Phlebotomists can be certified through national accreditation boards though, such as the National Phlebotomy Association and National Phlebotomy Certification Examination (NPCE). Getting certified with one of these organizations will make it easier to show potential employers your skills, no matter what state you live in or move to.

Once a candidate has studied for their certification exam, they can apply to sit the exam with the accreditation board of their choice. After successfully passing their exam, a phlebotomist has the credentials they need to search for and land a job in the field. 

What skills do you need to become a phlebotomist?

To become a phlebotomist, you need to have a mix of hard and soft skills. First, you must be meticulous and organized. Reading each patient’s requisition and selecting the correct tubes, as well as keeping records in accordance with your lab all need a high level of attention to detail. In addition, you need good hand-eye coordination and steady hands to carefully and accurately draw blood. 

On the soft skills side of the equation you need to bring about a spirit of compassion and to clearly communicate with people from diverse backgrounds. Being patient-facing all day long means you’ll need to be able to speak with and understand the people you serve. 

What is the average salary for a phlebotomist?

In 2019, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported the median salary for a phlebotomist as $35,510 and the median hourly wage as $17.07. Wages will vary for a phlebotomist, depending on their years of experience, qualifications, and location. 

For example, phlebotomists in Delaware and Minnesota are paid the highest average yearly salaries at $38,579 and $38,630, respectively. But in Maine and South Dakota, they are paid the least, at $28,149 and $26,682.

What is the typical career path for a phlebotomist?

Most phlebotomists entering the workforce now will take a non-degree college program in phlebotomy to prepare for their certification and employment. The college programs are typically less than one year in duration, and the certification requires a fee and to pass an exam.

Phlebotomists can choose to work in a variety of settings, depending on their career aspirations. Some will work in a hospital setting, while others will work in a laboratory or blood donation clinic. Upon hiring, there will be on-the-job training so that they become familiar with their particular lab’s procedures, organization and regulations. 

After becoming acquainted with their workplace and the expectations, phlebotomists enjoy a working career full of interactions with patients, and the ability to work as part of a healthcare team, no matter which location they choose. 

Where can you find phlebotomist jobs?

The number of phlebotomist jobs in the US is predicted to rise by 17% over the next decade, which is quite a bit higher than most professions. This is because of the increased demand for phlebotomists in hospitals, labs, and blood donor clinics.

You can check out the available phlebotomist jobs across the country on Ladders Jobs.