It’s no secret that the industry of medicine has a number of rewarding careers. Although it’s demanding and challenging, ripping the rewards financially is something to look forward to. The satisfaction of helping the sick and needy is another reward that could be ripped in working as a phlebotomy technician. If you don’t fear blood but wanted a stable and rewarding career then the field of phlebotomy is worth digging into. A phlebotomy technician draws blood samples from patients and prepares the specimen for medical testing. Most people have fear in drawing out blood so it’s the responsibility of phlebotomy technicians to ease up and comfort the patient or donor. They should develop trust and confidence while drawing out blood. Here are other responsibilities of a phlebotomy technician:

·    Explaining procedures to the donor or the patient
·    Applying pressure bandages after blood is drawn from the donor.
·    Taking blood pressure and other basic pulse reading.
·    Update and keeping track of patients records.
·    Sterilizing and preparing equipments.
·    Sending samples to the laboratory for evaluation.

Phlebotomy technicians are assigned in hospitals or laboratories. Some are on call technicians who travel to the patient’s home to collect sample. You need to have the patience and stamina in working with this field since it is usually spend standing and walking. You should also be comfortable working and interacting with patients. Aspiring phlebotomy technicians could also be assigned during night shifts in large hospitals. You need to be versatile in pursuing this career. This career plays an important role in hospitals or other medical facilities.

If you decide to take on this career then you need to have a high school diploma. Classes in science and math would be an added advantage.  Phlebotomy technician career usually takes up to one year to complete. This could earn you a certificate or diploma. Classes in anatomy, physiology, blood and cell composition, sampling procedures and lab safety are covered on this course. Students will also be provided with hands on training giving them experience in handling or drawing out blood samples in reality. They would also learn various techniques such as venipuncture and butterfly techniques that are used for drawing blood samples for children and old people. Handling of laboratory equipments is also included in this program thus equipping the students with all the knowledge needed in performing the job. Certification is optional for phlebotomy technicians but most employers prefer to hire someone with credentials. You could take on certifications from the governing bodies of phlebotomy. If you pass the accreditation exam then you would earn the title Certified Phlebotomy technician or Registered Phlebotomy Technician. Certified Technicians are required to undergo continuous education to maintain their certifications. One could also increase their marketability by adding additional certification such as a Donor Phlebotomy Technician that allows them to work in blood collection centers.

There are countless opportunities in this field. You just need to gain experience and certifications to increase your paycheck and annual phlebotomy technician salary.  Salary should never be the primary reason for pursuing any career. Be sure to do your research and find out if a career as a phlebotomy tech is right for you. Check out your local vocational schools and become a phlebotomy technician. It’s never too late to train.