How to Become a Phlebotomist

One of the best entry level gigs in healthcare is phlebotomy. In the decades to come, the demand for phlebotomists is expected to explode, making now the perfect time to pursue it as a career. The sky is truly the limit here, with a vast variety of healthcare settings in need of blood draws.  But how exactly does one become a phlebotomist? At Idaho Medical Academy, we’ve laid out the perfect 5-step plan to land a job in this rapidly growing field.

1. Acquire high school diploma

First and foremost, it’s required to have completed high school or have acquired a GED prior to formal training. Like most job fields, this is a fundamental requirement. In addition, minors are not legally allowed to work as phlebotomists.

2. Take a course from approved institution

One of the most important parts of preparing for employment is high quality training. Taking a course from an approved institution is the next step to working in phlebotomy. This will serve as excellent preparation in getting certified while teaching you all the vital information needed to perform the job. In courses such as these, you will learn the basic anatomy of the arm, venipuncture techniques, specimen collection, infection control, analyzing samples and preparing collection equipment. This is where the heavy lifting of becoming a phlebotomist is done.

3. Take certification exam

Most employers will require or at least favor job candidates that are formally certified. Certification demonstrates your commitment to learning the needed skillset of phlebotomy. There are several different certification exams available to students, depending on which agency they choose. These exams may seem daunting, but they highlight the importance of a high-quality training program and. After being certified, you are ready to jump into phlebotomy headfirst.

4. Volunteer or take an externship

Another great way to be even more prepared for the job field is to volunteer or take an internship. The American Red Cross is a perfect example of an institution to work with to gain additional knowledge and experience. Taking the time to learn through internships and volunteering not only builds important relationships, but it also allows for continued practice and training in a healthcare environment. While this part of the process may not always be necessary, it’s the extra mile that can make a massive difference.

5. Apply for work

Upon reaching this point, you will be a prime candidate for a first-rate phlebotomist. The potential for employment in phlebotomy is seemingly endless. Hospitals, plasma centers, emergency clinics, blood drives, nursing homes and laboratories all have a need for hard working individuals ready to draw blood. One useful tip is to seek employers with internal training programs. This will allow you to train at your workplace, therefore learning not only the skills of the trade, but also the day-to-day routine of the position.

Like most healthcare careers, phlebotomy offers a fulfilling work environment, high work demand and the chance to make a living improving the lives of others! If you’re interested in starting the path to becoming a phlebotomist, give Idaho Medical Academy a call. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have about our healthcare courses and set you up for success!