|
Phlebotomists are trained to draw blood samples
from people of all ages by venipuncture, skin puncture, or arterial
collection as needed for medical tests and blood donations. In the
practice of phlebotomy, safety precautions must be taken to prevent
the transmission of infectious diseases. Phlebotomists are instructed
to adhere to strict policies and procedures accurately and efficiently
while treating the patient with care.
Phlebotomist
Work Environment
Phlebotomists may work in hospital/commercial laboratories, clinics,
large medical offices, blood banks and occasionally in scientific
or product development research, or marketing and sales of homecare
products.
Job Outlook
Approximately 236 job openings are expected each year in Florida
until 2008.
Length of Training/Requirements
The training takes 150 to 230 hours and may be obtained in health
facilities, vocational schools, and community colleges. The curriculum
may include instructions in venous blood specimen collection and
handling, skin puncture collection techniques, and safety in blood
collection.
Advancement
Phlebotomists may advance to phlebotomy facilitator or supervisory
positions.
Licensure/Certification
Although there is no state licensure for phlebotomists, those who
obtain certification from national credentialing agencies such as
the National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel, American
Society of Clinical Pathologists, and the American Society of Phlebotomy
Technicians will have a better chance for employment. To be eligible
to take the certification exam, the student must complete one year
as a part-time phlebotomist or six months as a full-time phlebotomist
or successfully complete an accredited phlebotomy training program,
including at least 100 documented successful venipunctures and 25
documented successful skin punctures. Continuing education hours
are required every year to maintain certification.
Salary
The average salary of phlebotomists was $27,500 in 2009.
Updated: 2009 |
