Can I Train Online to Become a Phlebotomist?
February 20, 2012
There are certainly many options one can consider when looking for a phlebotomy training program that will best suit your particular situation. In order to be eligible for online phlebotomy certification you must have either successfully completed one of the many accredited training programs available or have several years experience working as a phlebotomist. There are a number of licensing agencies that provide phlebotomy certification, a few of which are:
- National Credentialing Agency
- National Center for Competency Training
- American Medical Technologists
- The American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians, Inc.
Since getting your certification includes a predetermined number of actual blood draws, online phlebotomy courses are ideal for those already working in medical facilities that will allow them to gain hands on experience. Many facilities such as colleges, universities, hospitals, etc. use online programs to teach the theoretical and administrative skills needed to become a certified phlebotomist. Some of the core courses that online phlebotomy certification courses typically cover include:
- Infection control
- Medical terminology
- Dealing with the difficult patient
- Processing and labeling blood draw samples
- Legal concerns in phlebotomy
- Effective communication
- Communication barriers
Once the theoretical or classroom portion of your phlebotomy course is complete and you have the required number of blood draws as stipulated by an accrediting agency you can apply for your online phlebotomy certification exam. Each recognized accrediting body has specific eligibility requirements so it is important to make certain exactly what they are and that you meet each one before applying to take your exams. Although testing will differ from one agency to the next, they will all require successful applicants to undergo both a written and practical exam.
Since phlebotomy schools offer a variety of courses, it is crucial to view the specific requirements for several certification agencies in order to make certain that your phlebotomy courses will cover all necessary topics and that you will be adequately prepared for your certification exams.
