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What it's like to be a Phlebotomist?

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Jessica A phlebotomist, also called a phlebotomy technician, is a person who draws blood from patients in medical facilities, primarily to aid in the diagnosis of an illness. They can also take blood for donations, or for research and testing, and the samples they draw are then sent to laboratories, where they are analyzed. Phlebotomists are frequently required to interact with patients directly, since they must be nearby in order to perform the blood draw procedure, and keeping patients calm and relaxed is an important aspect of the job. Phlebotomists should also have an eye for precision and detail, since they are responsible for properly recording and cataloging samples, and need to have the dexterity and steadiness to accurately insert needles into veins over the course of a work day.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR PHLEBOTOMISTS
DEGREE – Most phlebotomists receive a combination of classroom training and on-the-job experience. Although a college degree is not required, many phlebotomists obtain an associate's degree. A bachelor's degree in medical technology is also an option for aspiring phlebotomists. Topics of instruction focus on venipuncture, vascular anatomy, vascular physiology, skin puncture techniques, safety procedures and proper handling of blood specimens.

CERTIFICATION – Certification is heavily preferred by employers, and a few states, such as California, require that all phlebotomists be certified. There are several different providers of phlebotomy certification, each with slightly different requirements and expectations. When preparing for certification exams, consider taking a free online phlebotomy course to help brush up on your knowledge. Which certification to pursue is largely personal preference, and will usually be dictated by the program you choose to enroll in.
• Phlebotomy Technician, PBT (ACSB) certification is offered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) and requires a high school diploma and either completion of an approved phlebotomy program, a year's experience on the job, or a related certification. After meeting the eligibility requirements, an applicant must pass the certification exam. ASCP certification must be renewed every 3 years.
• Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) certification, offered by the National Healthcareer Association has some similar requirements and is awarded only after passing a 100-question certification exam. NHA certification is up for renewal every 2 years.
• Registered Phlebotomy Technician (RPT) certification is another common choice and is provided by the American Medical Technologists (AMT). Applicants are required to complete a phlebotomy program that consists of 120 hours of coursework, or they must show they have 1,040 hours of on-the-job training, with at least 50 successful vein punctures and 10 capillary punctures, before being allowed to take the exam. AMT certification needs to be renewed every 3 years, and you must remain a member in good standing.

CAREER INFORMATION
Phlebotomists, also called phlebotomy technicians, are specialized clinical laboratory technicians who collect blood samples (venipunctures) for use in diagnostic testing, blood transfusions and medical study. Phlebotomists work in hospitals, clinics, doctor's office laboratories, blood banks and health centers. Phlebotomists may also train and supervise other phlebotomy technicians and organize continuing education programs. The average Phlebotomist salary in California is $39,000 as of July 27, 2020, but the range typically falls between $34,900 and $44,000. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on the city and many other important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also projected job growth of 25% for phlebotomists over the 10 year period from 2018 to 20286, significantly faster than the national average. The demand for phlebotomists is largely driven by the extensive use of blood samples for medical testing.

Jessica there is an overwhelming amount of important medical information that can be garnered through the analysis of blood. Capable phlebotomists are vital to the success of the analytical and diagnostic processes.

Hope this was Helpful Jessica
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