Phlebotomy - A Growing Career in Clinical Laboratory Technology

You may not recognize the word "phlebotomy," but you probably know what phlebotomists do. No, it's not some crazy type of insect collecting or mysterious brain surgery. If you have ever had a blood sample taken, you've interacted with a phlebotomist. They are the highly-trained medical technicians who collect blood and other fluid samples from pediatric and adult patients.

Phlebotomy is a vital part of today's ultra-modern and vast health care industry, and phlebotomists have a variety of specialized skills. They often must explain the procedure to the patient, and take the patient's blood pressure, pulse, and respiration rate. Once the blood or urine sample is taken, the phlebotomist labels the collection tubes and prepares them for transfer to the lab for analysis. The patient's records must also be updated.

Many people-both children and adults-are squeamish about giving blood. They don't like being stuck with needles and they don't like to see their own blood. That's where the professionally-trained phlebotomist can make a big difference. Being a good phlebotomist is not just a laboratory job; it involves knowing how to calm and reassure patients who may have anxiety about a critically important procedure.

Training in Phlebotomy

Regulations for phlebotomists and phlebotomy training requirements differ from state to state. Many phlebotomists complete a formal phlebotomy education program, which typically lasts four to eight months. Some states require laboratory personnel to be registered or licensed. Requirements vary by state and specialty, but licensure of technologists often requires a bachelor's degree and the passing of an exam. Once on the job, phlebotomists usually work under the supervision of a medical laboratory scientist, physician, or lead phlebotomy technician in the clinical lab area of a hospital, clinic, medical office, or blood donation center.

You can check out the many phlebotomy and medical assisting programs online at a college directory service. Information about the career and education programs is offered free of charge by most accredited career colleges.

Phlebotomists' Earnings

Entry-level pay is competitive. The American Society of Clinical Pathologists reports that the average annual salary for phlebotomists is $24,350. According to the same survey, a phlebotomist in a supervisory position can earn a salary of approximately $35,000 per year. Many phlebotomists get additional training and become lab and EKG technicians, lab supervisors, or graduate into administrative roles.

Phlebotomy-A Growing Career Field

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, during the current decade from 2008 to 2018 job growth in clinical laboratory technology will be faster than the average for all occupations. Job opportunities are expected to be excellent because the number of job openings is expected to continue to exceed the number of job seekers.

Thanks to both the development of new types of tests and steady population growth, the number of laboratory tests continues to increase. As the decade progresses, increasingly powerful diagnostic tests will encourage additional testing and may spur employment. While hospitals are expected to continue to be the major employer of clinical laboratory workers, employment is expected to grow faster in offices of physicians, medical and diagnostic laboratories, and other community health care centers.

If you're looking for a dynamic career that shows real growth potential, phlebotomy may be just the thing for you! Here's how to get started. Go online to a reputable Internet college directory. Search for medical technology or phlebotomy programs near you. Compare colleges and programs. Get the information you need, then apply to the college or career school that is best for you. In less time than you think, you may be prepared for a rewarding new career.

Thinking about training for a new career in clinical laboratory technology? To make the best decision, you need the right information. Log onto http://www.education-for-careers.com/ and compare colleges. Get information about career training programs, degrees, online education, financial aid opportunities, job placement services, and much more.


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