The What, Why, & How To Of Being A Phlebotomist In 2024

16 February 2024

Phlebotomists, also known as phlebotomy technicians, use venous or skin punctures to draw blood. These specialists are essential to the healthcare industry, especially when it comes to the diagnosis and treatment of illnesses. Phlebotomy services can be used by patients to receive transfusions, donate blood or plasma, or test for medical conditions.

In addition, phlebotomy technicians have strict guidelines to follow when labeling biological samples, handling needles and other tools, and entering patient data into databases. These workers must execute their duties carefully and safely since they deal with biological samples.

Engaging with patients and making a difference in their care is a rewarding experience for many phlebotomists. Phlebotomists who are kind can ease patients’ anxieties about having their blood drawn, as many patients find the procedure uncomfortable. These technicians can also discuss the significance of blood collection

Phlebotomist employment prospects appear to be favorable. According to BLS projections, employment in this field will increase by 22% between 2020 and 2030, while jobs in healthcare will grow by 16% and all occupations by 8% during the same period. Here is everything you need to know about how to become a phlebotomist.

How to Become a Phlebotomist?

Becoming a phlebotomist does require specialized training. Fast-paced work environments and frequent client interaction necessitate that professionals in the field possess the following qualities:

Although phlebotomists are frequently employed in laboratory environments, some have more flexibility in their work environment when they work for ambulatory services. They might still have to put in overtime or on the weekends, for example, if they work in a lab.

Learn more about how to become a phlebotomist in this article, along with the procedures for obtaining national certification and education.

Requirements on How to Become a Phlebotomist

Before getting into the details of how to become a phlebotomist let us clear up the basics. Candidates must earn a GED or complete their high school education. It could be beneficial to take science and anatomy classes in high school. After that, people can enroll in phlebotomy programs, which typically leads to certification after 4–8 months of training. Community colleges, technical schools, and trade schools all offer these kinds of programs.

To practice, phlebotomy graduates in California, Louisiana, Nevada, and Washington must obtain certification. To improve their chances of finding work, professionals in other states should still think about obtaining a postsecondary credential. Phlebotomists have access to a range of certifications, such as:

Certified Phlebotomy Technician I: Trains medical personnel to take blood samples via venous and skin punctures.

Certified Phlebotomy Technician II: Trains medical personnel to perform venous, arterial, and skin punctures to collect blood.

Limited Phlebotomy Technician: Someone who trains medical professionals to take blood via skin punctures.

Certification and Licensure

Acquiring certification to become a phlebotomist requires a written and practical exam. The test will include about 300 questions. The clinical component will include a demonstration of sample labeling, skin, and venous blood draws, and sanitization procedures. Phlebotomists can then acquire the certification from different organizations, such as:

American Society for Clinical Pathology
National Center for Competency Testing
American Certification Agency for Healthcare Professionals
American Medical Technologists
National Healthcareer Association
National Phlebotomy Association
American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians

To stay up to date in their field, phlebotomists—especially those who need to renew their certification—must complete continuing education. The requirements for ongoing phlebotomist training vary by state, but most professionals must earn roughly six credits of continuing education annually. To fulfill these requirements, phlebotomists might be able to enroll in classes at community colleges or vocational schools or attend conferences.

Training to Become a Phlebotomist

Learning how to become a phlebotomist involves taking crucial courses and earning certification. Both laboratory experience and classroom instruction are prerequisites for certification programs. Topics including anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology, are typically covered in courses. Students may need to take prerequisite coursework if they are unable to demonstrate algebraic or mathematical proficiency at the high school level.

While it’s uncommon, some people with a high school or GED opt for on-the-job training rather than phlebotomy school. Phlebotomists are required by state regulations to follow certain guidelines regarding certification and ongoing education, regardless of their educational background.

What Does a Phlebotomist Do?

Before you want to know about how to become a phlebotomist, here is what you should know about what a phlebotomist does. A phlebotomist, another name for a phlebotomy technician, is a medical professional qualified to take blood samples from people. They might also help with blood drives and transfusions, depending on where they work. Apart from extracting blood from patients, they also process blood samples for analysis, gather patient data, and assist patients who might feel uneasy with needles.

The main responsibility of a phlebotomist is to take blood samples from patients as directed by a physician or other healthcare provider. On the other hand, your practice might also involve labeling vials, checking vital signs, chatting with patients about the blood draw procedure, and maintaining a sterile and clean work area. During your shift, you might also be required to carry out the following tasks, depending on where you work:

Gather data and make updates to patient medical records.
Fill out the paperwork and mark the vials.
Make patients more at ease while having their blood drawn.

Place a supply order
Arrange the necessary vials, needles, and other supplies in the work area.

Joining a professional organization can benefit your career in the long run, even though most charge a membership fee. These organizations give you a route to certification, facilitate networking, and assist you in keeping up with new methods or regulations.

National Phlebotomy Association

The National Phlebotomy Association (NPA) provides workshops, training courses, and professional certifications, such as a credential for phlebotomy instructors, to facilitate continuing education. For full- and part-time jobs in phlebotomy and other allied health fields, the organization maintains a job board.

American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians, Inc.

The American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians, Inc. (ASPT) certifies both graduates of recognized programs and employed phlebotomy technicians. Members of NHA, ASCP, and AMT are eligible to receive benefits from the organization. Members have access to nonprofit events, cross-training workshops, and opportunities for ongoing education.

Additionally, ASPT offers an EKG fundamentals program and a phlebotomy refresher course. There is a $65 exam fee and a $35 membership fee for phlebotomy technicians.

National Healthcare Association (NHA)

NHA offers phlebotomy technicians immersive learning opportunities in addition to professional certification. Practice drills, interactive games, and quizzes are among the available resources intended for educators and students.

For allied health professionals, NHA offers a job board, resume review services, and career planning guidance.

By showcasing and improving your skills, obtaining a professional certification can increase your marketability even if your state or employer does not require it. Examine the prerequisites for the following three popular certifications.

Technician in Phlebotomy (PBT)

There are various ways to become certified in PBT offered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP). Candidates must possess one year of full-time clinical experience or have finished an authorized phlebotomy program within the previous five years. Programs must fulfill minimum instruction requirements, be approved by the California Department of Public Health, or accredited by NAACLS.

In addition to paying a $145 application fee, candidates must pass an 80-question exam.

Certified Technician in Phlebotomy (CPT)

Candidates must successfully finish a phlebotomy training program or one to two years of supervised phlebotomy technician experience to be eligible for the National Healthcareer Association’s CPT distinction. Blood collection, patient preparation, and safety and compliance are all covered in the two-hour certification exam. The exam is $125, and you can buy a study guide or practice test to get ready.

Every two years, CPTs need to renew their certification by paying $179 and completing continuing education requirements.

Colleges That Offer Phlebotomy as a Course

Since phlebotomy students must acquire practical skills in blood withdrawal and collection, phlebotomy programs are typically offered on campus at educational institutions. The programs that prospective phlebotomists can find in the United States are listed below. However, keep in mind that this is just a small selection of all the programs that are offered all over the country. When you want to know how to become a phlebotomist, the college you must go to is an equally important aspect to consider.

Abrams College

The didactic component of Abrams College’s phlebotomy program is offered over two weeks, on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM in Modesto, California. This equates to 48 hours of classroom instruction. To proceed to the externship experience, students must pass all tests and complete all skill station requirements.

The 40-hour externship takes place in a hospital or clinical laboratory. Students who complete the program receive a certificate and should be qualified to apply for both state and national licensure.

Cuyahoga Community College

Cleveland, Ohio’s Cuyahoga Community College provides a short-term certificate program in laboratory phlebotomy. Students are trained in blood collection, specific blood collection techniques, medical terminology, ethics, and other related areas through a skills-based didactic curriculum. Students also need to finish an eight-week clinical externship at a hospital or clinic.

Graduates of this NAACLS-accredited program have completed it with a 100% job placement rate and a cumulative 95% pass rate on certification exams over the last three years. Furthermore, transfer programs are offered to students who wish to graduate with a bachelor’s degree from an institution in partnership.

Iowa Western Community College

The phlebotomy program at Iowa Western Community College in Council Bluffs consists of 120 hours of clinical experience and 80 hours of classroom instruction. The students receive their clinical placement assignments during the sixth week of the program. After finishing, they ought to be qualified to take the American Society for Clinical Pathology national certification exam. Students must adhere to a rigorous professional dress code and present documentation of their vaccinations upon admission to the program.

Santa Fe College

Students can finish the two-semester phlebotomy certificate program at Santa Fe College in Gainesville, Florida. In the first semester, students attend 60 hours of classroom instruction, and in the second semester, they complete 105 hours of clinical phlebotomy rotations.

Students must pass a background investigation and have all necessary vaccinations to be admitted. This course also includes instruction on bloodborne pathogens, HIPAA compliance, and CPR certification. The NAACLS is requesting approval for this program.

South Arkansas Community College

Students enrolled in the one-semester program at South Arkansas Community College in El Dorado, Arkansas, are prepared for careers in phlebotomy. Students can obtain their certification in phlebotomy by completing seven credit hours of coursework in phlebotomy, professionalism, patient relations, and medical technology.

In addition to working at least 100 clinical hours in designated healthcare facilities, students must complete 100 successful unaided collections and maintain a grade of C or higher in all courses. The practicum is set up by the program director. This program is accredited by NAACLS, and there is a 14-student maximum per class.

Cost of Courses in Phlebotomy

Programs for phlebotomy are reasonably priced when compared to the potential earnings. The cost of a course can vary from $700 to $3,000, based on the training duration and school. Students who want certification also need to pay a test fee, which ranges from $90 to $200. States that demand licensing will also pay an additional $58 to $200.

According to data from the BLS (May 2022), the average hourly wage in this field was $19.51, or $40,580 per year. Phlebotomists mean wages were higher in California, Massachusetts, Washington, D.C., New York, and California—all over $46,900.

Wrapping Up

It can take a year or less to become a phlebotomist, depending on the educational program and whether the student wants to pursue national certification. It could take longer in some states because of the various certification requirements for employment in those states.

The duration of education programs varies based on the type of school and program students enroll in, ranging from eight weeks to less than a year. Programs at community colleges might require more time, while those at vocational schools might be quicker. To receive a certificate or diploma and land a job, completing the program’s didactic and clinical hours is necessary.

Although it’s usually not necessary, national certification can be useful when applying for jobs.

Depending on the student’s exam preparation and certification motivation, this could take several months or longer to finish. Nonetheless, there are typically time constraints on when a learner can sit for national certification after completing a program.

Few states require certification, so working as a phlebotomist can be accomplished in less than a year—especially if the student enrolls in one of the faster-paced programs.

If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about how to become a phlebotomist, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you!

We also have more information if you want to know how to become a pediatrician, a therapist, an orthodontist, an anesthesiologist, a psychologist, or a physician assistant.

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Is Home Furnishings A Good Career Path In 2021?

Is home furnishings a good career path in 2021? How many jobs are available in home furnishings? What are the best paying jobs in home furnishings? Let’s solve these queries in detail. The trend today is home design. The industry has lots of opportunities at present, and the best is that you will get a chance to work with top designers in the world. Every business and home contains furniture; this means that the owners of those offices and homes made a purchase. But there is someone who is working behind the scenes. They are known as Sales Professionals. In this career path, you have plenty of opportunities to improve and gain experience in the same. Is Home Furnishings A Good Career Path In 2021? The answer to this question is an absolute Yes. Home furnishings can be a good career path because there are many openings in this career, and the skills required here can be useful in other sectors too. In the furnishing industry, the position of a sales job can be a remarkable career option. Here, you will get a chance to improve your knowledge and skills that can be helpful in industries such as home building, commercial banks, real estate, industrial/machinery components, precious metals, basic industry, hotels/resorts, packaged foods, and much more. The best part about this career path is that you will get an interest in each sale you make. Home furnishing consultants also earn a lot in this sector. How Many Jobs Are Available In The Home Furnishings Industry? There are more than one thousand jobs available in the home furnishing industry. Some of the best paying roles are Sales Representatives, Marketing Manager, Interior Designer, Sales Manager, Engineer, Operations Manager, Furniture Technician, Space Planner, etc. 1. Sales Manager Sales Managers analyze financial goals, costs, and KPIs with your teams. As a sales manager, your main role would be measuring the performance of sales, profit, and volume to increase efficiency and act on deviations. So, you need to have a good knowledge of project and change management processes and tools. You must also have a wide knowledge of end-to-end buyer journeys and online customer behaviors. 2. Interior Designer Another best paying job in home furnishings is Interior Designers. In this job role, you must be capable of handling customers individually, propose competitive designs, coordinate with the internal department, educate customers about the competitive advantages, immediate rendering as per customer satisfaction, etc. As an interior designer, you must have 1-year experience in interior residential projects and have good communication and presentable skills. 3. Space Planner The job position of a Space Planner is also excellent. Here, you must be able to do client communications remotely, able to author competent technical reports, delivering projects to desired quality standards, solve straightforward assignments, require expanded knowledge, and much more. The role of a space planner is somewhat similar to interior designer. As a space planner, you must have excellent knowledge about the spaces and lengths of every place and how to measure the same. You are responsible for quality project delivery. 4. Furniture Technician To get a position as a furniture technician, you must have a degree in Wood Science & Forestry and a minimum of 4 years of experience in the wood and metal industry. Knowledge about the AQL inspection system can be a plus point for you. Besides, you need to work closely with the merchants and involve in the product development process. You also need to communicate internally with vendors and clients daily regarding technical details. 5. Operations Manager The Operations Manager manages the operations of the entire career guidance center and following up with job seekers post the career counseling sessions. You need to collect data from job seekers before and after the assessment. Besides, you need to coordinate the assessments, counseling sessions, organize the data in an effective manner, and schedule sessions for the on-ground career counselors. The Final Thoughts Is Home Furnishings A Good Career Path In 2021? I have tried my best to give an answer to your question about this career path and how to pursue this career. Besides, if you have any issues regarding the same, you can mention them in the comment below in the comment section and we will get back to you at the earliest. Read Also: Is Energy A Good Career Path Is Technology A Good Career Path Is Capital Goods A Good Career Path Is Hotels/Resorts A Good Career Path Is Investment Managers A Good Career Path Is Consumer Non-durables A Good Career Path Is Other Consumer Services A Good Career Path Is Photography A Good Career Path? Is Major Banks A Good Career Path In 2021? Is Electric Utilities Central A Good Career Path In 2021?

Seasonal Unemployment – Definition, & Examples [Complete Details]

Seasonal unemployment could be a big issue because work is only available for a few months a year. However, such a situation is only temporary, and employment reverts to normal thereafter. Many workers are adapted to seasonal unemployment as they work heavily when the demand is high and save up much of their earnings. Then, they utilize those savings in the off season. Moreover, there are many opportunities and benefits in seasonal unemployment. One of the best parts is that it is clearly predictable. What Is Seasonal Unemployment? Seasonal employees are also known as temporary employees, and they qualify for unemployment benefits at the end of their job specifications. This can also offer exciting opportunities to work in special settings and perform job duties that relate to a particular time of the year. Seasonally unemployed individuals can simply look for employment opportunities or part-time jobs as they know well that their job is temporary and they need money for their daily livelihood. On the other hand, unemployment falls during Christmas because extra jobs are available. Thus, this could be the month where workers can earn maximum profit and utilize the same when they have no jobs. Seasonal Unemployment Benefits Seasonal unemployment only occurs when the season ends, which is usually predictable, as discussed above. However, to make your efforts easy, we have listed some of the top seasonal unemployment benefits that you must know in 2021. This can be the best period for you where you can actually build your skill sets that can be utilized for other career paths. For example internship, fixed-term hires, etc. There are many who are happy with seasonal unemployment because they have many other important things to do apart from their job life. This is better than complete unemployment as the labor force would earn wages for at least a part of the year. Earning very high when the workers are temporarily employed can be a great source of income even better than those who are employed for the whole year. This unemployment is common and predictable. You can take all the necessary steps beforehand. Seasonal Unemployment Limitations Yes, there are some limitations of seasonal unemployment that we have discussed below! One major disadvantage of seasonal unemployment is that it is the same as other unemployment. The workers or the employees here face personal hardships during the time they are unemployed. Even some employees might not find jobs that last the whole year. Another limitation of seasonal unemployment is that there is lost production. This means that the producer is not able to produce goods when there is seasonal unemployment. Seasonal Unemployment Examples Some of the top examples of seasonal unemployment are Holiday, Theme Park, Agriculture. Agriculture: Some farmer’s markets end during the last week of August. AS the farm only yields crops that grow in the summer seasons. Holiday: Seasonal unemployment occurs when the holiday performance of any show ends. There are many individuals behind the performance and they earn a good sum of money. Theme Park: Theme park is also another kind of seasonal unemployment that many of you are aware of. Besides, tourist destinations can also be an example of this type of employment. What Is The Difference Between Disguised Unemployment And Seasonal Unemployment? Disguised Unemployment Seasonal Unemployment In this, marginal labor productivity is null. The individuals appear to be employed but are not employed. In this, individuals cannot secure jobs during certain months of the year. The job needs the service of 5 individuals, but eight individuals are involved. There are many productivity phases when weaving, threshing, sewing, and harvesting are done. Located in rural areas. Located in both rural and urban areas. Found mainly in agriculture. Found mainly in the agro-based sector. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 1. Seasonal Unemployment Refers To Ans: Seasonal unemployment refers to the time period when the demand for labor or workforce is lower than normal under certain conditions. 3. The Problem Of Unemployment Comes Under Discussion Ans: The problem of unemployment comes under poverty. Unemployment causes a decrease in production and less consumption of goods and services by the people. 4. Where Is Seasonal Employment Found? Ans: Seasonal Unemployment is mainly found in rural areas because their major occupation is agriculture. The Final Thoughts Seasonal Unemployment is popular across the world, and you must know about the same. For those who earn very low wages, seasonal unemployment can be a major problem for them in the long run. It can become very difficult for them to manage everything at the same time. Besides, let me know your doubts in the comment section below if you come across any! Read Also: 6 Affordable Online Courses You Should Take How Does Creativity Help In Entrepreneurship? Top 7 Reasons the Medical Field Will Always Be In Demand

Best Paying Jobs In Property – Casualty Insurers

Considering the fact that millions across the world lost their jobs that paid them a hefty amount, people have been seeking jobs that would help them sustain themselves. And this is true across all fields of work. People have also searched for the best paying jobs in property-casualty insurers or similar fields. If you are someone who is looking for the answer to that topic, then you have come to the destination. So keep on reading this article till the end to learn more… What Are The Best Paying Jobs In Property - Casualty Insurers? In case you were searching for the best paying jobs in the line of property-casualty insurers, you have reached the right place. Well, you see, property-casualty insurers are responsible for protecting their clients or customers from incurring losses. That is the reason why many jobs are available in this field of line. And most of them pay a lot of money as a salary. Here are the top jobs with the best payments that you can get in this line of work: 1. Insurance Entrepreneur Estimated Salary: $95,000 – $105,000 If you are someone who wants to help people who are starting their own small ventures, then you can think about becoming an insurance entrepreneur. An insurance entrepreneur is someone who is associated with lather companies, and they help them create links and partnerships with smaller local companies. 2. Claim Examiners Estimated Salary: $60,000 – $75,000 The task of a claim examiner is to ensure that they review the claims that are made against any insurance policy. In that way, they are responsible for denying or approving claims. So, to pity it simply, claim examiners are responsible for examining claims and their validity. 3. Landlord Insurance Agent Estimated Salary: $80,000 – $95,000 Want to work with landlords and help them rent out their spaces? Then it might be a great idea for you to become a Landlord Insurance Agent. The task of these agents is to ensure that the interests of the landlords are protected at all costs. And thereby, they help the renters to minimize their losses. 4. Life Insurance Agent Estimated Salary: $75,000 – $95,000 This is one of the best paying jobs in the property-casualty insurers line. The task of the life insurance agent is not unknown. They are professionals who are responsible for selling policies that would insure their life. They can either work for an insurance company or be independent. 5. Property Casualty Agent Estimated Salary: $90,000 – $105,000 While the task of the life insurance agent is to insure the life of an individual, the task of the property Casualty Agent is to insure properties. The property can be of any type, from cars to homes and other personal property. 6. Claim Adjuster Estimated Salary: $100,000 – $120,000 The job of the claim adjuster is to assess the value that is associated with the claims. It is one of the most important as well as one of the highest paid jobs in the line of property-casualty insurers. They assess the amount and determine the exact compensation that has to be paid to the customer. 7. Insurance Broker Estimated Salary: $65,000 – $80,000 The job of the insurance broker is to help the clients to meet the right policy according to their needs. These brokers work with a number of clients, which can be individuals or businesses. And there is no doubt that it is one of the best paying jobs in property-casualty insurers. 8. Condo Insurance Agent Estimated Salary: $80,000 – $95,000 If there is something that many people do not know, then it is about the existence of the job of a condo insurance agent. The task of these insurers is simple and similar to that of other insurance agents. Their job is to sell the insurance policies to the customers who are willing to or are looking to insure their condos. 9. Financial Analyst Estimated Salary: $75,000 – $95,000 Several companies need Financial Analysts to help them make their business decisions rational and profitable. In addition, they analyze and advise the companies about what their next move should be. A financial analyst, in simple words, has the task of helping companies or businesses make money that will increase their profit. 10. Underwriter Estimated Salary: $80,000 – $100,000 The underwriter, also known as the insurance underwriter, is someone who evaluates the risks of investing. The main task of the underwriter is to fix the price of the investment that is going to be safe. And will also be able to minimize the loss. How Many Jobs Are There Due to the fact that they provide both individuals and businesses with a wide range of services, property-casualty insurers are crucial to the economy. They guard against mishaps and other losses for both people and property. Property and liability insurers employ a wide range of workers, from underwriters to claims adjusters. There are also a few positions in accounting and actuarial work. If your goal is to work in the insurance business, property and casualty insurers are an excellent place to start. Marketing Jobs for Property-Casualty Insurance Companies that provide property and liability insurance provide a variety of fascinating and demanding marketing roles. Companies that sell insurance to shield individuals and companies against monetary losses brought on by events like fires, theft, and auto accidents are known as property and casualty insurers. These insurance companies need to identify their target markets and develop messaging that resonate with them in order to effectively market their products. They also need to create effective plans for pricing and distribution. They must also monitor the actions of their rivals in order to stay ahead of the game. Executive Management Jobs Executive management positions in the property and casualty insurance sector supervise the various departments within the organization to assist it in achieving its objectives. This entails creating and carrying out plans, managing staff, and maintaining steady finances. The executive management team is typically composed of the CEO, COO, and CFO. They collaborate to ensure that the business is operating profitably and efficiently. It is the responsibility of the executive management to make difficult choices that could impact the company's future during times of crisis. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Now that you have almost reached the end of the article, I would advise you to go through some of these questions that users frequently ask about best paying jobs in property-casualty insurers. You might want to go through these for better clarity. 1. How Are Property Casualty Insurers Different From Life Insurers? While life insurers aim to insure the life of an individual, the task of the property casualty insurer is to insure the properties. 2. How Do Insurance Companies Make A Profit? The only way in which insurance companies can make a profit is to ensure that they are able to market their policies in a much better way. These companies make a profit by investing in insurance premiums. 3. What Are The Risks That Cannot Be Insured? While most things in the world can be insured, there are many risks that cannot be insured. Some of them are:1. Natural disasters2. Pandemic3. Political risks4. Reputational issues Wrapping It Up! The task of property-casualty insurers is widely popular and very much in demand in this world. One of the main reasons for that to happen is because there is absolutely no one who would not want to protect their properties in case there is an accident. But what is not to most people is the fact that there are a lot of different types of jobs and roles in this field. In case you were searching for the answers to best paying jobs in property-casualty insurers, I hope that you found this article to be of help. In addition, if there are any other queries related to the same, feel free to write them down in the comment section below. Read Also: Is Precious Metals A Good Career Path? Is Capital Goods A Good Career Path? How Many Jobs Are Available In Real Estate Investment Trusts?

The What, Why, & How To Of Being A Phlebotomist In 2024

How to Become a Phlebotomist?