Requirements For Becoming A Phlebotomist

A phlebotomist is an individual who is trained to withdraw blood in a safe and sanitary manner. This means that he/she must be very careful to make sure the medical waste is properly disposed of to prevent any type of contamination. They also deal with the handling and labeling of urine and fecal samples as well. Without some training, not just anyone can become a phlebotomist. In fact there are certain requirements for becoming a phlebotomist.

Phlebotomists or phlebotomy technicians must undergo a course of study that will adequately prepare them to be able to perform the required job duties in a competent manner. A person interested in starting a phlebotomy career can prepare for the profession by attending a technical school, or by attending a 4 year college and earning an Associates Degree. 

Techniques in Microcollection, Blood Sampling, Occupational Safety and Health Regulations, Techniques in Patient Identification and Specimen Collection Kits and Containers Procedures are all part of the coursework that an aspiring phlebotomist will need to successfully complete. Other requirements include completing courses in anatomy and physiology and medical terminology.

Phlebotomists have a choice of becoming certified, as well. They can become certified through the American Association of Medical Personnel, American Society of Clinical Pathologists or American Medical Technologists. Certification can certainly improve the chances of a job offer, and most employers will probably require certification as a condition of employment.

Also, among the requirements for becoming a phlebotomist are a certain disposition. He/she must be able to be comfortable around needles and withdrawing blood from people's veins. A person who is uncomfortable with such things will not be successful in this profession.

A phlebotomy technician must also be able to explain procedures to patients and be prepared to deal with scared patients or those who are faint of heart, because this will undoubtedly happen. He/she should also be competent enough in the field to answer any general questions a patient regarding the procedure which is being performed on them.

Anyone interested in becoming a phlebotomy technician should carefully consider the requirements for becoming a phlebotomist and if the profession is one in which they would excel. Louis Zhang, Howtobecomeaphlebotomist dot com