Career Development
How to Get Phlebotomy Certification
Are you planning a career in the medical field but not sure what to pursue? Then consider gaining phlebotomy qualifications to become a phlebotomist. This role demands withdrawing blood samples from patients and the position is required in every hospital, clinics, blood banks and many more.
Unlike other medical certifications, you can earn a phlebotomist certification within a short span of time and by just completing your high school. Read the blog further to know the steps of how to get phlebotomy certification.
Table of Content
How to Get Phlebotomy Certification
In this part of the blog, we will discuss how you can get the phlebotomy certification by following some simple steps.
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Get your High School Diploma or GED
It is recommended to complete your high school diploma or GED before you opt for your phlebotomy qualifications. This would be the first step to start your journey of phlebotomy learning.
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Research Phlebotomy Training Programs
If you look for phlebotomy training programs, you can find many of them both online and offline. You need to choose and decide which one suits you best and aligns with your requirements.
However, it is always recommended to go with a training programme that provides you with comprehensive theory along with practical learning experience, just like the Basic Phlebotomy Course of the Phlebotomy Training Institute.
No matter which program you choose, it should be accredited and prepare you for the certification exam. If you choose the phlebotomy programs online, you may want to check the ratings and reviews before you enrol in the program. This would give you an idea about the quality of the training program.
Furthermore, you need to inquire whether the particular online phlebotomy program offers practical sessions. Since phlebotomy is all about drawing blood, you should practise doing it in person.
The Phlebotomy Training Institute offers both beginner and advanced level phlebotomy training in cities like London, Birmingham, Bristol and Swindon. You can check the website to enrol in your desired program.
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Enrol in a Phlebotomy Training Program
Now that you have decided on a training program, you will receive the necessary skills and knowledge required to be a phlebotomist. Your training should cover-
- The process of drawing blood from patients
- Different methods for drawing blood
- Health and safety measures to avoid contamination
- How to label samples and a lot more
Apart from the above-mentioned topics, you will also be introduced to human anatomy and physiology, various medical terminology, and the ethics and professionalism expected from the phlebotomists.
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Take your Certification Exam
The options for phlebotomy certifications are many. There is no set standard for certification exams but the requirements for all of them vary slightly.
Some of the most common phlebotomy certifications are-
- Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)
- Certified Phlebotomist Technologist (CPT)
- Phlebotomy Technician (PBT)
- Registered Phlebotomy Technician (RPT)
You can enrol in any phlebotomy certification program as per your preference. Employers usually do not have any specific criteria when it comes to the certification program you choose.
After completing your training, you’ll have to sit for the assessment. Every institution has a different assessment method.
For example, at the Phlebotomy Training Institute, you’ll have to perform 10 to 12 blood draws, which will be closely observed and assessed by the senior healthcare professional. With proper training and practical assessment methods, it becomes easy to pass and get your certification along with the competency certificate and recommendation letter.
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Build a Resume that Showcases your Skills
Once you have passed your certification exam, the next step is to build a resume. Prepare your resume according to the job description and highlight any experience you have. Highlight your skills any extracurricular activities you have participated in. If you do not have any experience in healthcare jobs, you can take a reference letter from your course instructor or supervisor.
Further, if you’ve done your training from the Phlebotomy training institute you can also attach your competency certificate and recommendation letter with your application to boost your chances of getting hired.
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Submit Job Applications
Once you have created your resume, it’s time to apply for jobs. Initially, you can look for phlebotomist training jobs.
The following websites can help you find phlebotomy jobs-
Maintain your Phlebotomy Certification
Even if you pass your exam and get a job, you still have to maintain your certification. You need to renew your certification once a year or every two to four years. Recertifications require several hours of continuing education or proof of hours spent working along with a recertification fee.
Conclusion
Getting a phlebotomy certification smoothens your journey to become a phlebotomist. Not to mention, this position has high demand among any other healthcare career. So, becoming certified in phlebotomy will help you to stand out in the job field.
FAQs
How to get certified as a phlebotomist?
If you have completed your GED, you can enrol in a phlebotomy certification course, sit for the phlebotomy exam, and get certified as a phlebotomist.
Which phlebotomy certification is best?
There is no such thing as the best phlebotomy certification since it depends on the needs and preferences of a student. However, the best phlebotomy certification programs are comprehensive, accredited, affordable, and prepare you to sit for the certification exams.
What is the qualification for Phlebotomist?
A phlebotomist needs to undertake phlebotomy training programs to perform the phlebotomist’s responsibilities. Besides, relevant work experience in the healthcare sector would be an additional qualification to secure a job.
What are the two types of phlebotomy?
The two types of phlebotomy are venipuncture and capillary puncture. Venipuncture is the most common type of phlebotomy which involves taking blood from a vein. On the other hand, capillary puncture involves taking blood from a small vessel in the skin like a finger or toe.