Career Transition: Careers 101- Consider Phlebotomy

February 20th, 2012 by Jacqueline Simmonds Leave a reply »

By Wilton Less, NAC, NHA, CNA

If you are looking to get your foot in the door of the medical field, then you should give phlebotomy some thought. Many people use phlebotomy as that all-important initial stepping stone into healthcare, and there are a number of great reasons why. To learn more about why you should consider phlebotomy, check out these phlebotomy facts:

Job description. Phlebotomists record patient histories, disinfect the puncture site, perform the venipuncture (blood drawing) procedure, clean and dress the puncture site after the venipuncture procedure, prepare blood and bodily fluid samples for lab work, and work with other member of the medical team, like doctors, nurses, and lab professionals.

Training.  One reason phlebotomy is such a popular choice for those seeking quick entry into the medical field is that it takes a relatively short period of time to train to be a phlebotomist. As a matter of fact, it is possible to work as a phlebotomist with no formal education, as long as you are willing to undergo on-the-job training. However, if you want to improve your employability and increase your job opportunities, remember that phlebotomy training programs are abundant, and can prepare you for a career in phlebotomy in a matter of months.

Salary.   You won’t get rich as a phlebotomist, but you will be able to support a comfortable lifestyle. What’s more is that you can expect to have chances to increase your salary, either through earning seniority on the job, working in a high demand environment, modifying your shift/schedule, or training to increase your job functions.

Work environment.  Phlebotomists are needed in a variety of work environments, including hospitals, clinics, blood banks, laboratories, private doctors offices, and pharmaceutical development companies. Each of these work environments has a different feel, includes a unique set of medical professionals, and offers varying work schedule hours.

Employment outlook.  As long as people need blood work for any reason, whether it be sickness, preventative medicine, blood/fluid donation, or to test their compatibility with a potential donor-recipient, there will be a need for phlebotomists. Therefore, you can rest assured that your training and experience as a phlebotomy technician will always guarantee you a variety of prospective employment opportunities. That’s job security at its best.

As you can see, there are many great things about being a phlebotomy technician. If you are interested in pursuing this multifaceted career, then research phlebotomy training programs today. You will be amazed at all of the opportunities you will have to reach your goal and get into the medical field.

About Wilton Less, NAC, NHA, CNA

Wilton is a certified phlebotomist who works with phlebotomy schools to aid in their program development efforts. He highly recommends visiting http://www.associationphlebotomytraining.com/ to learn more about the field.

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