O n e p o s s i b l e a l t e r n a t i v e
or supplemental occupation to that of a CNA is the specialty of phlebotomy. CNAs with phlebotomy skills broaden their job possibilities. There are currently about 123,000 phlebotomists in the U.S and that number is growing. Phlebotomists typically work under the laboratory department of hospitals. They may also be known as phlebotomy technicians. Just how do phlebotomists become phlebotomists? It’s not that difficult, but you need special skills. Let’s take a look.
Prerequisites:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Completed a NAACLS* approved phlebotomy program
(*National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS))
where do Phlebotomists get this training?
Phlebotomists typically enter the occupation after completing a phlebotomy program (NAACLS approved), whether conducted by a hospital, technical school, or college. Some hospitals offer special classes that award certificates to successful students upon completion, allowing them to apply for positions. Typically, the class lasts several months. Almost all employers look for phlebotomists who have earned professional certification (for example, as given by ascp.org), however some are hired and later gain their certification.
Phlebotomists Duties
Phlebotomists perform venipuncture in hospitals (draw blood) mainly for tests. Other reasons include: transfusions, research, or blood donations. Additionally, they may also perform urinalysis or operate specialized lab equipment. Phlebotomists show good rapport with patients and explain their work while also assisting patients who have adverse reactions after their blood is drawn.
Working conditions
Phlebotomists work mainly in hospitals, medical and diagnostic laboratories, blood donor centers, and doctors’ offices.
Pay
The median annual wage for phlebotomists was $32,710 in May 2016. However, pay starts out as low as 10 to11 dollars an hour depending on the locality.
Job Outlook
Employment of phlebotomists is projected to grow 24 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations. Hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, blood donor centers, and other locations will need phlebotomists to perform bloodwork.
Interpersonal Skills Required
1. Compassion. Some patients or clients are afraid of having their blood drawn, so phlebotomists should be caring in performing their duties.
2. Detail oriented. Phlebotomists must draw the correct vials of blood for the tests ordered, track vials of blood, and enter data into a database. Attention to detail is necessary; otherwise, the specimens may be misplaced or lost, or a patient may be injured.
3. Dexterity. Phlebotomists work with their hands, and they must be able to use their equipment efficiently and properly.
4. Hand–eye coordination. Phlebotomists draw blood from many patients, and they must perform their duties successfully on the first attempt, or their patients will experience discomfort.
5. Physical stamina. Phlebotomists are on their feet for long periods, and must continue to take accurate blood samples throughout their workday.
A quick guide to becoming a CNA (includes 200 test prep questions):
How to Become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)