How to Become a Phlebotomist in Pennsylvania?
To become a phlebotomist in Pennsylvania, there are certain requirements you will have to meet as well as certain traits you should have. Phlebotomists work in hospitals and perform tasks like drawing blood, and diagnosing patients so that doctors can treat them effectively. Typically, you may be required to draw blood, label vials, enter patient information into the hospital’s database, and maintain and clean medical instruments, as a phlebotomist.
Featured Programs and Schools
Requirements to Become a Phlebotomist in PA
To become a phlebotomist in PA, you should be compassionate as some of your patients may be scared or vary of having their blood drawn. Part of the job description is to help these patients feel comfortable. You should also be detail oriented as drawing, tracking and labeling blood vials requires attention to detail. In addition to this, you should have good hand-eye coordination and precision so you can draw a patient’s blood at the first attempt. Having good physical stamina is a plus, since you will be required to work on your feet for long periods of time.
Steps to Become a Phlebotomist in PA
There are a few simple steps you have to take before you can become a certified phlebotomist.
- Getting a high school diploma
The first step to almost any career is to get a high school diploma or equivalent degree. During your high school program, if you have already decided on a career as a phlebotomist, it is a good idea to take courses on biology, anatomy and chemistry. These subjects will prepare you for your career as a phlebotomist.
- Getting certified
There are many phlebotomy training programs in community colleges and vocational schools in Pennsylvania that can prepare you for your certification exam. Certificate programs in phlebotomy will teach you about anatomy, medical terminology and physiology. These programs will take around 1 year to complete. However, they are not a necessary step to becoming a phlebotomist. You could also get a high school diploma and train on the job.
- Applying for jobs
After your education and training, you should start applying for the jobs you want. Keep in mind that employers prefer aspiring phlebotomists to have some level of certification or experience. There are several centers in America that offer certification for phlebotomists:
- The National Center for Competency Testing
- National Healthcareer Association
- American Society for Clinical Pathology
- National Phlebotomy Association
- American Medical Technologists
How Much Does a Phlebotomist Make in PA?
According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual mean wage for phlebotomists in Pennsylvania is $34,370. As of May 2018, 4,760 people in Pennsylvania were employed as phlebotomists. The national rate of growth of job opportunities in the field is much higher than average at 25% and a new addition of 30,100 jobs is expected between 2016 and 2026.