With the phlebotomist job market booming, it is not unwise to explore your options in becoming one. Are phlebotomy classes really worth it though? Let’s take a look at how strongly we recommend phlebotomy classes, what the courses consist of, and how to choose the program that best fits you.
Why Phlebotomy Classes Are Recommended
It’s not a secret: Good paying phlebotomist jobs are in high demand, and they shouldn’t slow down anytime soon. On this note, an average Joe cannot simply get hired without any training or certifications. Most US states do not have a licensing requirement, although almost all phlebotomist employers require some level of certification to be considered for the job. Phlebotomy classes are also highly recommended because they are a way to launch yourself into a new career, regardless of a lack in college experience or a medical background. Classes act as a quick catalyst as well, because most do not take long to complete.
Classes will usually have simple prerequisites required of applicants, but don’t be concerned—these are typically related to your personal health records and immunizations. Online courses for Phlebotomy are available, but keep in mind that these lack the important “hands-on” element of physical phlebotomy training centers. Most phlebotomy classes will help you obtain your Certified Phlebotomy Technician 1 Certificate (CPT1), in order to train you properly for the job, while marketing you as a credible option for hospitals, private clinics, and other phlebotomist employers. You may also choose to pursue your National Phlebotomy Certification (NCCT) which provides a huge credibility boost and can lead to a preferable phlebotomist career. Various phlebotomy education institutes will offer additional phlebotomy-related classes as well. These can range from venipuncture to blood withdrawal, and are usually taken after the CPT1 certification class. Learn more about the CPT 1 certificate here. Find out just how much can a phlebotomist make an hour in California.
What will I study in a phlebotomy class?
You will learn everything you need to be a successful phlebotomist in most accredited phlebotomy classes. This doesn’t mean your teachings will be narrowed down to solely bloodwork, however. Handling and dealing with emergencies will typically be an important part of any phlebotomy class. These useful emergency related skills will help you be prepared from your first day on the job, in case anything out of the ordinary occurs. A little less exciting, but still drastically essential to the field of phlebotomy, is proper contamination procedures. Mastering these preventative skills is a requirement in any sector of phlebotomy, as it is important to avoid infecting yourself and others.
Here is an extended list of other common subjects you can expect to encounter in a Phlebotomy classroom:
- Anatomy/Physiology-Systems included are circulatory, lymphatic, muscular, respiratory, skeletal, and urinary.
- Blood/Cell Composition-You will study infections and diseases, and how they affect blood and cells.
- Blood Sampling Procedures-It is vital to know the differences between various venipuncture techniques, and what age groups require which method.
- CPR-Becoming certified in CPR is a smart idea in the first place; as a phlebotomist you will be much more likely to be in a situation where it is necessary.
- Lab Safety-Hands on training will reinforce proper equipment handling techniques, with an emphasis on preventing mistakes in the first place.
How to choose the right phlebotomy course
If you have decided to take a phlebotomy course, your next step is to find a training program that fits your needs. Some major factors you should take into account are the time it takes to complete the class, credibility, and location. Phlebotomy training programs (depending on the course’s focus) can have a time span of four hours, to a full year. Perhaps you are intending on obtaining your California CPT1 license. PhlebotomyU offers a 5-week program with a strong track record of helping phlebotomist hopefuls successfully apply for a California CPT1 license. Credibility of your educational institute should also be taken into account. For example, PhlebotomyU has helped place an extraordinary number of newly trained phlebotomists into jobs at hospitals, private clinics, and more; to the extent that it is now one of the most highly trusted and accredited phlebotomy education programs in California. When determining which phlebotomy class to take, consider where you would like to end up working after your course is complete. A training program’s local influence is an often-ignored aspect. For example, if you wish to work as a phlebotomist in a hospital in San Diego, CA, you should put effort into finding an accredited training center in San Diego county.
RELATED: Is Phlebotomy Technician a Good Job?
Enroll at PhlebotomyU Today
After achieving your CPT1 certificate at PhlebotomyU, you will be ready to find your dream phlebotomy job. As a nationally accredited phlebotomy training program, PhlebotomyU prepares its students with the skills they need to succeed afterwards including career services , a phlebotomy internship, and more. Interested? Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions.
