The following information is from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Phlebotomists. Please visit the website for a more comprehensive breakdown of the data.
LINKS TO PHLEBOTOMY DIRECTORY PAGES
WHAT PHLEBOTOMISTS DO
Phlebotomists draw blood for tests, transfusions, research, or blood donations. Some of them explain their work to patients and provide assistance if patients have adverse reactions after their blood is drawn.
Job Duties
PAY
National Average Annual Pay (2019): $36,480
Top 5 States
1. California
$45,940
2. New York
$42,950
3. Alaska
$42,100
4. Washington
$41,380
5. Massachusetts
$40,660
Bottom 5 States
50. South Dakota
$27,950
49. Mississippi
$29,760
48. Arkansas
$30,330
47. Louisiana
$30,710
46. West Virginia
$31,050
STEPS TO BECOME A PHLEBOTOMIST
To become a phlebotomist, you will need a post-secondary non-degree from a phlebotomy program. A phlebotomy program typically takes less than a year to complete, and the program consists of classroom sessions and laboratory work.
Employers usually want phlebotomists to have professional certification. The following are organizations that offer phlebotomy technician certification:
- National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT)
- American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)
- National Phlebotomy Association (APA)
- American Medical Technologists (AMT)
- National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
If you live in California, Louisiana, Nevada, or Washington, you are required to be certified to practice as a phlebotomist.
1. Enter a Phlebotomy Program
Programs usually take less than a year
2. Get Phlebotomy Certification
Certification usually involves a written exam and a practical component, such as drawing blood.
3. Get a Job as a Phlebotomist
California, Louisiana, Nevada, and Washington require phlebotomists to be certified.
QUALITIES OF PHLEBOTOMISTS
Detail Oriented
Phlebotomists must draw the correct vials of blood for the tests ordered, track vials of blood, and enter data into a database. Attention to detail is necessary; otherwise, the specimens may be misplaced or lost, or a patient may be injured.
Compassion
Phlebotomists must keep in mind that some patients or clients are afraid of having their blood drawn, so they should be caring in performing their duties.
Dexterity
Phlebotomists work with their hands, and they must be able to use their equipment efficiently and properly.
Hand-Eye Coordination
Phlebotomists draw blood from many patients, and they must perform their duties successfully on the first attempt, or their patients will experience discomfort.
Physical Stamina
Phlebotomists are on their feet for long periods, and they must continue to take accurate blood samples throughout their workday.