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Phlebotomy

Student and Faculty in the nursing lab.

Department: Phlebotomy

Program Type: Health Professions


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Overview

Have you ever had your blood drawn and wondered what it takes to do this job? The phlebotomist is the "face" of the laboratory. As a key lab team member, the phlebotomist collects blood samples for analysis, leading to accurate patient diagnosis.

Phlebotomists are typically the only lab employees interacting with patients in person, making professionalism and empathy important for success. If you work well with others, have strong communication skills, multi-task, have an eye for detail, and are looking for a profession where you can make a difference in people's lives, phlebotomy may be for you.

Once you complete your classroom-based training, you'll go to the program's clinical portion. During this phase of your education, you'll be assigned to a hospital or outpatient setting, where you'll acquire 100 clinical hours and complete at least 100 venipunctures to withdraw a blood sample or for intravenous injection.

Upon completing the Basic Vocational Certificate in Phlebotomy, you will be eligible to sit for the American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP) exam. You may also continue your studies to pursue an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Clinical Laboratory Technology. ASCP Board of Certification is for non-physician medical laboratory personnel.

Get additional information, including course listings and class descriptions.

Prepare for Immediate Employment

The job outlook for phlebotomists is generally positive. The demand for phlebotomists is driven by an aging population that requires more medical services, including diagnostic bloodwork. In addition, there has been a growing focus on preventative health care, which has led to an increase in routine blood testing.

Phlebotomists can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, blood banks, and laboratories. They may also find employment with private companies that provide mobile phlebotomy services to individuals who are unable to leave their homes.

Overall, the job outlook for phlebotomists is positive, with strong demand for their skills and expertise. However, job opportunities may vary by location and the level of experience and certification of the phlebotomist.

Refer to Career Coach for more information regarding related occupations and compensation.

Plan of Study and Course Descriptions

Review the ECC catalog for details about the phlebotomy plan of study and course descriptions.

Basic Vocational Certificate

What is Phlebotomy?

Phlebotomy is the medical practice of drawing blood from a patient for various purposes such as diagnostic testing, transfusion, or donation. It is a crucial aspect of healthcare that requires specialized training and certification. Phlebotomy classes near me offer individuals the opportunity to become trained and certified phlebotomists through programs offered by phlebotomy schools or programs near them. These programs provide comprehensive instruction and hands-on training to equip students with the skills necessary to perform venipuncture safely and effectively.

How long is Phlebotomy School?

Phlebotomy school typically ranges in length from a few weeks to several months. The length of the program depends on factors such as the level of certification being pursued and the amount of time committed to the program. Basic phlebotomy courses may last only a few weeks, while more advanced or specialized courses may require several months of training.

Phlebotomy classes typically offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate different schedules and preferences. Students may attend classes on a full-time or part-time basis, with options for daytime, evening, or weekend classes. Upon completion of the phlebotomy program, students can sit for the certification exam to become certified phlebotomists. With proper training and certification, individuals can pursue a rewarding career in the healthcare industry as a phlebotomist.

How to get a Phlebotomy Certification?

To get a phlebotomy certification, individuals must complete a phlebotomy program offered by a phlebotomy school or program near them. These programs provide comprehensive training in the theory and practice of venipuncture, medical terminology, anatomy, and infection control.

After completing the program, individuals must pass a certification exam to become certified phlebotomists. The exam is typically administered by a national certification agency, such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

Phlebotomy schools may offer different types of certification programs, such as basic, advanced, or specialized courses, depending on the level of expertise required. Upon successful completion of the certification exam, individuals can pursue a rewarding career in the healthcare industry as certified phlebotomists.

Learn more about the Phlebotomy department at ECC!

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Contact

Admissions & Recruitment

Building B, Room B110
847-214-7385
Fax: 847-608-5458
admissions@elgin.edu

Live Chat

Hours
Monday through Thursday: 8 am to 7 pm
Fridays: 8 am to 4 pm

*Bilingual Admissions Coordinator: 847-214-7689

Contact

Program Director for Phlebotomy Program

Jillian Janicki, MLT (ASCP)
Building A, Room A230.04
847-214-7362
phlebotomyinfo@elgin.edu