How to become a Phlebotomist

Many of the skills you have as a phlebotomist will lend themselves well to a career as a medical assistant. Experience with medical terminology, phone etiquette and computer skills are needed to become a medical assistant.

Phlebotomists may eventually pursue to become medical assistants, nursing assistants, licensed practical nurses (LPN) or registered nurses (RN).

Being a phlebotomist is not hard but it does require lots of training and practice. Phlebotomists will learn a lot on the job and will get better as they gain more experience drawing blood. This job may be difficult for individuals who are sensitive to the sight of bodily fluids.

To become a certified phlebotomist you will first need to complete an accredited training program, which may take around 4-8 months to complete. Once complete, you can immediately take the certifying exam in your state.

A phlebotomist needs a high school diploma or GED before attending a training program. Some states allow phlebotomists to learn on the job rather than making them take coursework, however, other states require coursework and the passing of a licensing exam. Be sure to check your state's specific requirements.

Yes. For most phlebotomy professional certifications, you need to earn a certain number of continuing education credits every two years. There are short courses you can take to fulfill this requirement.

A phlebotomist needs a number of skills, including:

• Coordination: It takes a steady hand and good eye-hand coordination to draw blood while causing as little pain to the patient as possible.
• Attention to detail: You must be certain everything is properly labeled and stored to avoid mixed, lost or contaminated samples.
• Communication: Patients are often nervous around needles, so you will need to be able to explain the process in a way that reassures them.
• Stamina: Good phlebotomists need to be able to work with precision and accuracy even after spending hours on their feet.