Phlebotomy - The Fast Track to a Career

Phlebotomy - The Fast Track to a Career By [http://EzineArticles.com/expert/W_Joyner/1178176]W Joyner The world of healthcare and medicine presents many career opportunities with a diverse selection of specialties to select from. The obvious choice, of course, is that of being a doctor. But beyond that, there are many other options also available such as x-ray technician, lab technician, or even nursing. Another area to think about for a career in healthcare is in phlebotomy. Working as a phlebotomy technician doesn't require a lot of years of training. In fact, phlebotomy certification can be achieved in a matter of a few months. Those trained to work in this field are usually referred to as phlebotomists. A phlebotomist collects blood samples from a patient using various means, usually by inserting a needle into a vein and drawing the blood into a tube. The process is also referred to as venipuncture. The collected sample is then used for testing and diagnosis. Phlebotomy technicians are also involved in patient care through helping to update and maintain a patient's records. And one of the more critical areas of responsibility lies in the proper identification and handling of the collected samples. In general, many medical professionals are capable of doing venipuncture, including doctors and nurses. However, as with so many other areas of healthcare, phlebotomy has emerged as a specialty field, complete with its own certification standards and requirements. The ongoing growth in this area is creating a sizeable need to be filled. Becoming certified in the area of phlebotomy usually requires completion of some sort of phlebotomy training course. Such training courses can often be found at a technical college. In addition to the study of such subjects as anatomy, medical terminology, and blood properties a phlebotomy student will also be required to obtain hands-on experience in drawing blood. Such experience may be achieved in the class lab, with students practicing on each other, or in a clinical setting as a student-phlebotomist. Upon completion of the training program a student will need to pass a certification exam and may be required to have a record showing a certain number of previous blood-draws, referred to as "sticks" in order to demonstrate proficiency. Certification exams are often administered by professional associations such as the American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians. A certified phlebotomist can expect to earn a decent salary and usually enjoys reasonably good working conditions. For the year 2011, the average salary for phlebotomy technicians is around $30,000 per year. When compared to the minimal amount of training required for the job, it reflects a fairly good return on investment. Phlebotomy is a growing area of healthcare and certified phlebotomists are being sought after by doctor's offices, diagnostic laboratories, hospitals, and many other places. With courses that can often be completed in a year or less, phlebotomy training could be your fast-track into the healthcare field. Many students today are choosing to take [http://www.phlebotomycertify.com/phlebotomy-courses-online-a-viable-option/]phlebotomy courses online. To learn more about phlebotomy training and the exciting and challenging career of a phlebotomy technician visit [http://www.phlebotomycertify.com]PhlebotomyCertify. Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Phlebotomy---The-Fast-Track-to-a-Career&id=6536270] Phlebotomy - The Fast Track to a Career

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The Advantages Of Online Phlebotomy Certification

The Advantages Of Online Phlebotomy Certification By [http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Adam_Davies/156977]Adam Davies Phlebotomists are healthcare workers that draw blood samples for analysis. Doctors use the results as an important diagnostic tool. They are knowledgeable of human anatomy and physiology, especially of the cardiovascular system. They receive specialized training and many choose to become certified technicians. There are many benefits to obtaining one's phlebotomy certification. Certification of practicing phlebotomy technicians is not required by law in the United States, except in California and Louisiana. However, the many employers of phlebotomists (including hospitals, private healthcare clinics, laboratories, and blood banks) choose only to hire certified phlebotomists. Having offline or online phlebotomy certification demonstrates that the phlebotomist has a thorough understanding of blood collection standards and protocols set by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Many phlebotomists acquire online phlebotomy certification. Completing an online phlebotomy training program is not the equivalent of offline phlebotomy certification. To be eligible for offline and online certification, technicians must complete a phlebotomy training program. A program must be accredited to be recognized by certifying agencies and employers. Accreditation is awarded through the United States Department of Education, the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Standards (NAACLS), or similar. Good training programs use the materials and guidelines set by the CLSI. Like many other training programs, phlebotomy training is available in a traditional classroom setting as well as online. Traditional programs, offered through community colleges, medical facilities, and career or vocational colleges, provide hours of classroom and hands-on clinical instruction. Choosing an online program can give the student the freedom to set their own schedule, which is especially beneficial for those working part or full time. However, it is important to select an online program that also provides clinical instruction or helps students set up internships. Hands-on experience is necessary to qualify for certification exams. Acquiring online certification is done through ten national certifying agencies. These agencies include the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT), the American Phlebotomy Association (APA), and the National Phlebotomy Association (NPA).Most certifying agencies accept online applications on a continuous basis. Online phlebotomy certification can be completed at the convenience of the applicant. Freedom of scheduling is a major benefit to online phlebotomy certification. Online phlebotomy certification consists of a standardized exam, which is completed online. Certification is awarded upon successful completion. Some certifying agencies will also require a practical portion, which cannot be completed online. There are many resources available to students pursuing online phlebotomy certification. Textbooks, such as Phlebotomy Essentials (4th edition) by Ruth E McCall and Cathee M Tankersley, provide comprehensive information that covers phlebotomy techniques, safety protocols, and legal issues. Numerous phlebotomy workbooks and practice tests are available. Practice exams and review guides designed for online phlebotomy certification preparation are available through each certifying agency. Adam Davies is the creator of "Phlebotomy Certification Guide", one of the leading online resources about [http://phlebotomycertificationguide.com/]phlebotomy courses, training, education and [http://phlebotomycertificationguide.com/benefits-of-online-phlebotomy-certification]online phlebotomy certification benefits. If you are looking for a rewarding career in the health care field, this site is a must read! Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Advantages-Of-Online-Phlebotomy-Certification&id=4809086] The Advantages Of Online Phlebotomy Certification

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