Things To Know About Phlebotomy Technician

The healthcare industry is vast, encompassing so many different roles all with one goal: keeping patients healthy. If you’re interested in finding your place in the healthcare industry, phlebotomy is a great option. It’s a rapidly growing profession with opportunities to work in various healthcare settings like hospitals, doctor’s offices, and labs. Learn everything you need to know about this career path, including where to find a phlebotomy technician program.

What Is a Phlebotomy Technician? What Does a Phlebotomy Technician Do?

Phlebotomy technicians are skilled healthcare workers whose main responsibilities revolve around blood sample collection. These blood specimens are taken to a laboratory where they’ll be used to diagnose disease and illness. Phlebotomy Technicians are also responsible for prepping lab equipment and helping patients feel at ease by explaining the blood-drawing process. There also may be times when the technician will need to properly dispose of and ship blood samples to other laboratories outside their practice.

What Does Phlebotomy Mean?

Phlebotomy means the drawing of blood by venipuncture. It can be done for a blood transfusion, diagnostic testing, or experimental procedures.

Scope of Practice

While most of the role involves drawing blood and properly handling samples, phlebotomy technicians should expect to do all of the following as well.

• Help patients understand procedures
• Ensuring patients are at ease (especially when it comes to those nervous about needles)
• Taking blood pressure, pulse, and respiration readings
• Bandaging blood drawn area
• Sending samples to the correct lab for testing
• Sterilizing equipment and cleansing work areas
• Keeping patient medical records updated

Is a Phlebotomy Technician Different Than a Phlebotomist?

You’ve probably come across the term phlebotomist while researching the phlebotomy technician role. If you wonder how they are different, the answer is quite simple—they are not. Both roles involve drawing blood, properly handling samples, and ensuring lab equipment is sanitary. The real difference is that some workplaces use one term over the other. So pursuing a phlebotomy technician program would put you on track to accept either title.

How To Become a Phlebotomy Technician

The first step toward becoming a phlebotomy technician is earning your high school diploma or equivalent. If you already have that, then you’ll need to enroll in a training program that’ll teach you how to draw blood, sanitize equipment, and prepare you to work with patients. You may also need additional certification, which a phlebotomy technician program can help prepare you for.

How Long Does It Take To Become a Phlebotomy Technician?

It can take anywhere from a couple of months to years to become a phlebotomy technician. It really depends on where you choose to get your training and education. Some programs—like the phlebotomy technician program at EIT—can be completed fast and prepares you for entry-level work in various healthcare settings. Do your research and thoroughly scope out training programs to ensure they have the tools and resources you need to succeed.

Is It a Good Career Choice?

If you think you’d enjoy a career in healthcare where you’ll be making a difference in patients’ lives daily, then this is an excellent career choice for you. It’s also a good career choice for anyone looking for a rapidly growing field. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the phlebotomy field is projected to grow 10 percent over the decade. That means about 21,500 new openings each year to 2031. Phlebotomy technicians make a median salary of $37,380 according to BLS, with opportunities to make more and move up.

Enroll In the Phlebotomy Technician Program at Erie Institute of Technology

You can change your career trajectory in as little as six months when you enroll in the Phlebotomy Technician program today. During your training, you’ll gain hands-on experience working with lab equipment and other instruments used for collecting samples. You’ll also learn basic medical office procedures and terminology that’ll help you stand out from the crowd.

At EIT, our dedication to your career success doesn’t stop in the classroom. Upon graduating, you’ll have access to job placement assistance. Learn more about the Phlebotomy Technician Program today.