How to Take the Phlebotomy Certification Test in Georgia

There are many job opportunities for phlebotomists.

A phlebotomist's role in health care is to draw blood for the purpose of testing and transfusions. Phlebotomists are employed in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, blood laboratories, and blood banks. The state of Georgia does not require phlebotomists to be licensed, however, many employers do so. Those interested in a finding a job in the field of phlebotomy should strongly consider becoming licensed.

Things You'll Need

• Phlebotomy study guides
• Phlebotomy test registration

Instructions

1. Determine which agency you wish to be certified by. There are ten different exams used to certify phlebotomist: AMT, NHA, NPA, NCCT, NAHP, IAPA, ASPT, NCA, ASCP, and ACA. If you have decided to attend a phlebotomy certification program, make sure that they teach for the test you plan on taking, as different tests cover different material.

2. Enroll in a phlebotomy certification course. Make sure the course covers the test you plan on taking. There are several schools in Georgia that offer phlebotomy certificate training programs. Most of these programs are either one or two years long. The benefit to taking a phlebotomy training course is that in addition to learning what you will need to take the phlebotomy certification test, you also receive valuable in-class training. Some schools may also offer on-the-job externships that will ensure you have real-world experience in phlebotomy once you graduate. Some of the schools the Georgia that offer phlebotomy programs are: Central Georgia Technical College, Darton College, Allied Health, Savannah Technical College, Allied Health, Atlanta Technical College, West Georgia Technical College, and Clinical Skills Training Center.

3. Study hard while you are in school. It is important to understand that certificate programs do not ensure you will become a certified phlebotomist. A certificate programs means that once you graduate they will award you a certificate that proves you have completed their program. While the school's goal is to prepare you for the certification test, successful completion of the course does not guarantee you will successfully pass the test.

4. Register for the phlebotomy exam of your choosing well in advance of the date you wish to take the test. Most agencies that administer certification exams have comprehensive websites that have many resources to help you study for and pass your phlebotomy certification test. In some instances, when you pay the fee to take the test, you are sent study materials free of charge or are given the opportunity to buy materials such as study guides and practice tests. The more time you have to prepare for the test, the more likely you are to succeed.

Tips & Warnings

• If you choose to enroll in a formal phlebotomy program, be sure that your school is properly accredited.

References

• Phlebotomy Certification Guide