Phlebotomy is one of the fastest rising healthcare careers that offer very good opportunities if you are thinking of a healthcare career. This is because the importance of today’s phlebotomist in healthcare is crucial in diagnosing healthcare problems and other procedures in medicine. A good phlebotomy curriculum will teach human anatomy, venipuncture techniques, sample labeling techniques, best practices and standards, and legalities surrounding taking and handling of blood. Experienced certified phlebotomists are always in high demand, and well-compensated. However, you need to attend a good phlebotomy school to get the right skills and accreditation. How do you pick a good school?
Accreditation
Having accreditation opens more doors because it is the only way that potential employers can ascertain that you have the required skills. Different states have different accreditation programs, and a school should at least have state accreditation. But more recognizable is accreditation by the National Association of Phlebotomists. Visit Dorsey Emergency Medical Academy to learn more about it.
Course outline
The more you can learn in school the more you have to work as foundational skills. The minimal requirements in a phlebotomy course should be;
- Human physiology and anatomy – This teaches how the body works and focuses on the circulatory system.
- Venipuncture techniques- You learn how to draw blood in special circumstances
- Sample labeling procedures – You learn best practices in labeling for efficient retrieval
- Safety – You learn how to stay protected while handling infectious blood
- Professional standards and practices – This involve patient care and privacy, and quality assurance in blood handling
- Legal issues – You learn legal rights and responsibilities, as well as protecting the rights of your patients
Also, you have to consider the hours of training. While entry phlebotomists are required to have at least 40 hours of training, most healthcare employers will only consider you if you have more than 120 hours of theory training and another 120 hours in practical training.
Location
The location of the school is a big factor in your costs because you have to account for transport and accommodation if need be. You can consider a faraway school if you have a few familial responsibilities, but consider a nearby school if you have extra responsibilities.
Fees
A basic certificate in phlebotomy will cost $300-800, while a higher Associate’s Degree can cost $650-2500. You will also have to account for books, equipment, and exam costs.
A good phlebotomy school will lay the right foundation for high qualification in phlebotomy, which will make you marketable, and establish a fruitful career.
