Students interested in a career in phlebotomy
want to consider schools that meet industry certification requirements
before making a final decision on a school. Since phlebotomy requires
hands-on training, programs require on-campus attendance. Courses
available online typically consist of demonstration lessons and
theoretical subject matter.
While some schools may provide online demonstration videos and refresher courses,
phlebotomy
training cannot be completely solely online. Phlebotomy programs
require hands-on training in order to teach students how to take and
collect blood samples and other clinical specimens. Clinical subjects in
this program include medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, first
aid and techniques for safely drawing blood without causing patient
discomfort. Administrative training involves greeting and preparing
patients for the physician's examinations and easing patient anxiety.
Admission to a phlebotomy program is open to students with a high
school diploma or the equivalent, who are physically able to perform the
position duties. Since phlebotomists work with the public, individuals
entering a phlebotomy program should have excellent communication skills
and be able to effectively manage anxious patients. While a few courses
may be taken online, phlebotomy training programs require hands-on lab
work so students can practice taking blood samples. The duration of
program training varies from school to school. Students can enroll in
7-week programs offered by vocational schools or 2-year associate's
degree programs offered by community colleges.
List of Common Online Phlebotomy Training Courses
Online phlebotomy courses cover theoretical and analytical topics. All practical training must be completed in person.
Introduction to Medical Terminology Course
This course is designed to provide students with an overview of
medical terms. Topics covered include definition, word pronunciation,
spelling and correct grammar usage for medical terms.
Anatomy and Physiology Course
This course covers the structure, cellular function and chemistry of
the human body. Students learn the organization and function for the
respiratory, cardiology, pulmonary, circulatory, endocrine, nervous and
muscular systems.
HIV/AIDS Awareness Course
The HIV/AIDS awareness course covers state regulations of the control
of HIV/AIDS and how phlebotomists can reduce their risk of infection.
Students learn to describe HIV/AIDS, identify who is at risk for
infection, explain what causes AIDS and understand how individuals can
become infected with the HIV virus.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicted a 14% increase in employment opportunities for phlebotomists through 2018 (
www.bls.gov). According to the BLS, the median annual salary for a phlebotomist was $36,030 in 2008.
Students interested in a phlebotomy credential can earn their
certification by passing an examination or demonstration from the
American Society for Clinical Pathology, the National Phlebotomy
Association or the American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians.
Re-certification is generally required every two years through
continuing education courses.
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