Phlebotomy Course

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What is a
Phlebotomist?

A phlebotomist is a medical professional who is trained to perform blood draws on children and adults. They collect and prepare blood for testing so it can be analyzed in a medical laboratory. They also collect blood for donation.

  • Phlebotomists are trained to collect blood samples through:
  • Venipuncture (a puncture in your vein).
  • Finger pricks, such as for blood sugar tests or to determine blood type.
  • Heel pricks, which are specifically for infants.

Blood tests are used to screen for, diagnose, and monitor health conditions. They’re very common and an essential part of medical testing. While other medical professionals, such as nurses, are also trained to draw blood, this is the main part of a phlebotomist’s job. “Phlebotomy” comes from the Greek words “phleb-” and “-tomia,” which mean “vein” and “cutting,” respectively.

What does a Phlebotomist do?

A phlebotomist’s main job is to collect blood samples in response to orders issued by healthcare providers or for donation. More specifically, their job includes:

  • Preparing people for blood draws may involve putting someone at ease if they’re anxious or have a fear of needles.
  • Verifying the identity of the person before performing the blood draw and ensuring proper labeling of collection vials.
  • Ensuring that all equipment is properly sanitized before collecting blood.
  • Performing blood draws and transfusions for people.
  • Assisting people who experience adverse reactions after a blood draw or transfusion.
  • Maintaining, tracking, and storing the blood samples for delivery to testing laboratories or blood banks.
  • Assisting physicians and other medical professionals.
  • Organizing and maintaining blood draw supplies.

Where do Phlebotomist work?

Phlebotomists work in a variety of places, including:

  • Clinical Laboratories
  • Hospitals.
  • Community health centers.
  • Assisted living facilities and nursing homes.
  • Doctor’s offices.
  • Blood donation centers and blood drives.
  • They’re usually supervised by a clinical laboratory technologist or other medical professionals.

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Our classes consist of 80 hours of classroom, lab skills and 40 hours of clinical experiencing in an outside facility.