- April 6, 2021
- Posted by: Covelo Group
- Categories: Clinical Careers, ZOE Feed
Phlebotomists are the specialized healthcare professionals responsible for drawing blood samples used in diagnostic tests, blood transfusions, and medical research. Phlebotomy plays an essential role in medical diagnostics and patient care. After all, the quality of any laboratory test depends on the quality of specimen collected from the patient in the clinical setting.
Hospitals, diagnostic labs, donor centers, and private medical practices all need phlebotomy technicians to perform bloodwork. Not only do phlebotomists obtain and process specimens from patients, they are responsible for collecting and reporting medical data, and may also need to perform clerical laboratory tasks. As in any clinical setting, they must adhere to strict quality control policies, follow stringent safety protocols, and monitor the proper function of relevant equipment.
Phlebotomy is a growing profession within the booming healthcare industry. In fact, experts predict a much faster-than-average job growth rate of 17 percent over the next decade. In this job, you’ll typically be required to draw blood from patients of all ages. To get maximum cooperation from squeamish patients, you’ll need a calm and reassuring bedside manner. Flexibility is also key, as phlebotomists may be asked to work different schedules, depending on the hours of the healthcare facility.
Path to Career in Phlebotomy
To pursue this career, you’ll need to obtain a phlebotomy technician license, and become a certified phlebotomy technician (CPT) in your state. Your first step is to obtain a high school diploma or GED.
Next, you’ll need to get the proper training. Seek out accredited allied health technical schools in your area, and find the one that best meets your needs. Does it offer a course schedule that works for you? What about expenses and financial aid?
Most phlebotomy programs can be completed in three months or less, depending on the class frequency and duration. A good program will offer clinical experience with venipuncture, urinalysis, hemodialysis, centrifuging, and processing, as well as courses in anatomy and physiology.
A strong phlebotomy curriculum will give you the right hands-on training to successfully draw blood, as well as the knowledge needed to pass the phlebotomy certification exam. This test is administered by either the American Medical Certification Association (AMCA), the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), or the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT). Participants are tested on important facets of patient care, site prep, equipment selection, specimen collection, and processing, as well as safety and infection control. You’ll need to show proof of a phlebotomy technician diploma to sit for the exam.
Join Covelo’s Phlebotomy Team
Covelo Group specializes in placing phlebotomists, and other allied health professionals, in full-time positions at reputable healthcare facilities nationwide. We are seeing a high demand for certified phlebotomy techs from California to Georgia, and major markets in between. We currently have multiple full-time phlebotomy positions offering steady schedules, competitive pay, and benefits eligibility after just 30 days. What’s more, we can match you with a position at one of the nation’s top medical groups, giving you invaluable clinical experience for your resume.
Whether you’re just starting out in the healthcare industry, or you’re looking to kick your phlebotomy career into high gear, we can help you take the next step. Visit our Jobs page to browse open positions, or contact us directly at recruiting@covelogroup.com or 415-421-4900. We can’t wait to hear from you!