The first phase in the lifecycle of a blood cell is called erythropoiesis. Erythropoiesis takes place primarily in your bone marrow, which produces red blood cells from stem cells.

Phlebotomy was first used and dates back to the ancient Egyptians, around 1000 BC. Back then it was best known as bloodletting. Some believed that it could not only help take away and out diseases and plagues or acne but also evil spirits.

When you lose fluids throughout the blood donation process, you can end up feeling dizzy because your blood pressure can drop. As around half of the blood that you donate is going to be made of water, it is important to be fully hydrated before you give blood.

Your first step in receiving certification is to check your eligibility. You need to see if you meet the requirements to take the NPA National Boards. Next, you should work hard to prepare for your Phlebotomy Exam.

In California, there is a regulatory body for any practicing phlebotomists, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). They help to oversee phlebotomists in the state to check that they are all working in the right way, and they oversee how phlebotomists get certified.