What Do You Know about Phlebotomy

Phlebotomy which means to cut a vein in Greek is the process of drawing blood. A longer definition will be the process of making an incision in veins and collecting blood samples for different purposes depending on the patient, the blood maybe drawn for testing, sample and even for blood transfusion.

A certified professional who performs phlebotomy is called a phlebotomist. They are trained to draw blood from people and in certain circumstances from animals for tests, transfusions, donations or research.

In the United States, phlebotomists are required to register or in some states be certified. The American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians is the main organization creating policies and providing certification exams to phlebotomists.

If you want to become a certified phlebotomist you may acquire training in the nearest community college or university near your area. Most community college and universities offer phlebotomist training programs. Training will usually take 3 weeks to 6 months depending on the program you take and the requirement of the state where you are taking the certification.

Subjects you will study when you enrol in a phlebotomy class includes human anatomy and physiology, vein location, arterial puncturing, puncture points, and administering comfortable punctures.

Here are the specific lists of subjects:

1. Legality on blood collection.

2. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

3. Patient interaction.

4. Blood collection techniques.

5. Clinical practices of Phlebotomy.

Before you can take a phlebotomist training here are the requirements:

1. 18 years old or older

2. You must have taken GED or finished high school.

3. Physical Fitness - this is a strong requirement. You must be free from diseases because you will come in close contact with patients when you become a licensed phlebotomist. This requires that you have a strong physical constitution to prevent getting and transmitting disease.

4. Health Insurance - this is another requirement from those who are taking phlebotomy. The health insurance should cover both injuries as well as accidents. You'll never be sure that you won't encounter an accident or injury while taking the course so this is also required for certification.

5. Mental Fitness - this is also a requirement. Aside from being physically fit, you must also be mentally fit to take on this course. Doctors will evaluate you and see whether you fit the profile of this course.

When applying to work as a phlebotomist, here are the requirements:

1. Finished phlebotomist training from an accredited training institution

2. You must have undergone a 40 hours classroom instruction in Phlebotomy.

3. Must have experienced 120 hours of actual training in Phlebotomy.

4. 100 hours of successful blood drawing.

5. Passed a criminal background check.

Phlebotomy is a rewarding career but training is also required since this is an allied health care career. Still it's one good career choice. You surely can have a stable career even in bad economic conditions and it's also personally rewarding to know that you are directly helping in taking of people's health.

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