How to Be a Phlebotomist

The phlebotomy career is in high demand and requires only a short training program. Here's how to become a phlebotomist.

Instructions

1. Graduate from high school, or get your GED. Your diploma or GED is required for entrance into a phlebotomy course.

2. Enroll in a phlebotomy program. Phlebotomy programs are offered at most community colleges. The programs can be as short as 1 semester or as long as 1 year. The courses usually include both classroom instruction and time spent in a work setting where you will gain valuable hands on experience.

3. Assess your own phobias and squeamishness. Phlebotomists work to draw blood from patients in a hospital or doctor's office, something that makes many people shudder, at the very least. Phlebotomists take blood samples from screaming kids, and needle-phobic adults. Make sure that you have the stomach and the patience for this career before you start.

4. Gain computer skills. Computer skills are necessary in this career due to the intensive record keeping that goes into maintaining and updating patient files. Attention to detail and thoroughness are important attributes to have.

5. Get a phlebotomy certificate. The American Medical Technologists (or AMT) offer phlebotomy certification for students who has gone through an accredited program. The certificate is not required, but greatly increases your likelihood of finding and keeping a job in the field.

Resources

• How to Get a Medical Billing and Coding Job
• How to Become an Anesthesiologist