Phlebotomy is a high-end procedure of collecting blood by making precise incision to the veins to draw blood. A Phlebotomist is a medical practitioner especially trained on drawing blood samples for lab tests. They take blood from patients for lab tests, as ordered by doctors. While nurses can also perform phlebotomy, having phlebotomist do the job maximizes time and energy, and lessen possible mistake to occur. Many people take up phlebotomist certification exam and become a Phlebotomist.
A Phlebotomist is trained to use two essential methodologies in drawing blood from patients. These methods are called venipuncture and neonatal heel prick or fingersticks. The venipuncture method is used to get blood samples from the veins; while the heel prick is commonly to get blood samples from babies. Those with more in-depth training are able to draw arterial blood samples. Depending on the type of institutions they are employed, these medical practitioners may sometimes travel to outpatient clinics to collect blood samples.
In the past, there was no specialized education for phlebotomy. It was just another skill that is learned on the job. But now is a different time. In the United States, individuals who are aiming to practice phlebotomy need to train for two or four months in an accredited trade school. Theres also a 1-year course study on Phlebotomy, which includes anatomical study, blood collection and its legal concerns, and patients interaction experience. After finishing the course, the student should take and pass Phlebotomy Certification Exam. A phlebotomist doesnt have to be a college graduate. A person who finished high school is qualified to get a training on phlebotomy and as long as he has a diploma to show GED certificate. Phlebotomy certification is an essential procedure need so an individual is recognized as a Phlebotomist.
There are many different authorized institutions that give phlebotomy certification. This includes the American Society for Clinical Pathology’s Board of Certification (ASCP-BOC); American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA); the American Credentialing Agency (ACA); the National Healthcareer Association (NHA); and many more. The process of drawing blood is not as easy as it may seem. Many patients have suffered and died due to wrong venous incisions; thus legal aspects are included in the training.
This is one reason why a Phlebotomist must be certified; to ensure that he/she knows the nitty-gritty of the job and that major mistakes will be avoided. Certified Phlebotomists are mostly hired to work in hospices and some private institutions. Most Phlebotomists are paid $9.00 USD – $17.00 USD per hour or higher, depending on experience.
