Phlebotomy Classes – Free & Paid Training

Drawing blood from a patient’s veins is known as phlebotomy. It refers to venipuncture, when a patient has a needle inserted into a vein to draw blood for various tests. They should therefore feel at ease handling blood and needles in addition to gathering and transferring samples. In order to carry out this work you will need to take phlebotomy classes to then acquire your phlebotomist certification.

There will always be a demand for blood testing, collection, and sample, making phlebotomy a very lucrative vocation that will remain in high demand. A career in phlebotomy allows workers to draw blood in healthcare facilities, hospitals, and even specialty occupations.

It’s important to note that the American Red Cross Society has facilities across the country. So, you can choose a suitable one if you want to obtain phlebotomy training via this organization.

Keep reading this article to learn everything about undergoing a phlebotomy course from the American Red Cross Society.

Everything You Need to Know About Phlebotomy

Phlebotomists need to be accurate and safe in their work. In a phlebotomy program, students learn how to do venipuncture precisely and safely to be aware of the precautions they should take while doing their job. Additionally, phlebotomists must have a soothing and understanding attitude. It is so since, for many patients, getting blood taken may be a painful experience riddled with anticipation and anxiety.

Phlebotomists’ rate of job growth is on the rise. Over 10% growth is anticipated from 2021 to 2031. Thus, due to their growing demand, obtaining a good job in this sector should be easy. Additionally, you may earn a respectable wage depending on where you work. Phlebotomists often earn $32,000 per year.

Who Can Become a Phlebotomist?

People with the right skills and passion for patient care can become phlebotomists. In addition, you need to possess the following qualities to ace your job as a phlebotomist.

• Proficient at finger sticks, phlebotomy, and venipuncture.
• Excellent communication and documentation abilities, both in writing and verbally.
• Knowledge of electronic health records (EMR).
• Compassion and social skills.
• Evaluating information using critical judgment and solving problems.
• Understanding of infection control techniques.
• Knowledge of patient care.
• A focus on the details.
• Organizational and procedural capabilities.
• Outstanding concentration
• Simple computing abilities.

What Does a Phlebotomist Do?

The duties of a phlebotomist are not reserved for taking blood. Here are some other responsibilities you will have to meet while working as a phlebotomist.

• Identifying the most effective technique for collecting blood samples and other specimens, performing screening processes, and preparing specimens for laboratory testing.
• Verifying test requests by comparing the data with nursing station logs and alerting the appropriate unit staff if there are any inconsistencies.
• Identifying individuals and ensuring that patients are informed about the sampling process.
• Performing finger and venipuncture to get blood samples.
• Observing isolation protocols, adhering to departmental policies, and employing an aseptic approach to maintain the specimen’s integrity.
• Keeping tabs on gathered specimens by initialing, dating, and recording the time of collection. Phlebotomists must also maintain daily totals of collections made.
• Performing bedside glucose tests, recording results, and informing the unit nurse manager of results to track glucose levels.
• Performing bleeding-times tests, entering data into a computer, and alerting the pathologist to findings outside the expected range.
• Maintaining high-quality outcomes by adhering to departmental policies and the testing schedule, documenting results in the quality-control log, and spotting and communicating necessary modifications.
• Keeping a safe, secure, and healthy working environment by adhering to rules and procedures and obeying the law.
• Applying bandages to blood-drawn wounds and reassuring patients anxious about sample operations.
• Updating patient records.
• Maintaining a tidy and organized workstation.

Requirements of Enrolling in the Red Cross Phlebotomy Training Program

The American Red Cross Society is a well-known organization for its activities. However, it has now introduced a phlebotomy training program for all aspirants.

Few entry criteria are necessary for many phlebotomy training programs. A high school graduation or GED is required. Also, the age requirement must be at least 18 years. However, there are specific additional qualifications to qualify for the Red Cross phlebotomy program. They include the following.

• Filling and submitting the standard forms of the organization.
• Providing background check details.
• Turning in the drug screening report.
• Passing the entrance exam.
• Acing the physical examination that includes a TB test.
• Getting vaccinated against Hepatitis B.
• Providing the application form along with the physical form.

What Includes in the Phlebotomy Program at Red Cross?

There are two distinct elements to the training curriculum. It comprises 40 hours of lab/hands-on work and 80 hours of preparation in the classroom. Before performing venipuncture, you will master some skills in a classroom environment. Phlebotomy fundamentals will be covered in the first phase of your study.

You will need to understand the science involved in the procedures in this section. Some of them are human anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, body systems, blood collection and processing, and blood transport to clinical labs. Eventually, you will discover two distinct venipuncture techniques. These include syringes and butterfly venipuncture.

After the classroom portion of your training, you will have to switch to a more practical approach. Here you’ll learn about the equipment and needles used to take blood samples. You will get to practice taking the samples on a training arm while being supervised by a phlebotomist or teacher.

The program involves a comprehensive approach to finding the veins of patients of all types. At the end of the program, you will have equipped with the necessary skills to perform the procedure with a high level of proficiency. Overall, you can be become a qualified phlebotomist in less than 6 months.

The Red Cross will allow you to take a certification exam through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) when you complete your course.

Who Can Join the Phlebotomy Training at the American Red Cross Society?

Almost anybody may register for phlebotomy training with the American Red Cross as long as they satisfy the prerequisites. However, if you have the following qualities, you are considered the ideal candidate for the program.

A Desire to Enter the Medical Field

The best candidates for this course are those who desire to enter the medical field. The career of phlebotomy is regarded as being entry-level. But many individuals also pursue it as a job for the rest of their lives. People who have received their training from authorized schools sometimes receive preference from hospitals and other medical facilities.

First Responders and Rescuers

Red Cross phlebotomy training courses are available in more “intensive” formats for first responders and rescuers. For first responders especially, the Red Cross provides a Phlebotomy and EKG Technician curriculum that includes CPR instruction. You will pick up some blood collection skills. You will nonetheless train using several tools.

Medical Practitioners

Phlebotomy training, or at least a portion of it, is also taken by some medical practitioners. The Red Cross can provide extra training or instruction in venipuncture if you work in healthcare but want to gain more experience. There is a 20-hour version of their training course that they provide. Only those who are currently employed in the medical field are eligible. This condensed curriculum emphasizes the theoretical knowledge and practical abilities required to work as a phlebotomy professional.

Safety Program at Red Cross

To make you qualified for the position of a phlebotomist in every way, the program involves a course on safety procedures under the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). You will learn all the necessary information regarding protecting yourself and the patients from all potential threats while performing your task.

The course teaches you to prevent contamination, the importance of protective gear, proper labeling and transferring of samples, and lab safety procedures. All these will help you gain the necessary skills to become the perfect phlebotomist.

Essential Skills You Must Possess to Become a Phlebotomist

There are some qualities that phlebotomists ought to possess. Through the American Red Cross, you may get the necessary skills to become a phlebotomist. However, the following characteristics are essential to perform your duties professionally.

Interpersonal Skills

As a phlebotomist, you will have to deal with various patients daily, including children and the elderly. You will encounter many awkward patients who find it terrifying to have their blood taken. It’s essential to have the capacity to understand and cooperate with various personality types while retaining your composure and compassion.

A Strong Focus on the Details

Correctly labeling blood samples is one of the most important duties a phlebotomist must complete. It’s crucial to mark everything accurately and avoid making any mistakes.

Ability to Stand for Long Periods

Being a phlebotomist requires a lot of endurance if you work in a hospital or clinic. You will spend most of the day standing up and moving back and forth to the on-site lab.

Well-Organized

The samples of blood are typically placed into vials after being drawn. Phlebotomists constantly need to be well-organized, as keeping those vials organized is crucial. Before your patient comes, you should have your supplies ready and be able to clean up after each one quickly.

Ability to Work Well in a Team

You will have to collaborate with other staff members even if you operate as a mobile phlebotomist in clinics or hospitals. You must get along well with lab employees and other medical personnel to perform your duties properly.

What Jobs Can You Do After Phlebotomy Training?

The need for phlebotomists is relatively high. A hospital is one of the most common settings for phlebotomists to work. Hospitals around the nation frequently hire phlebotomists to meet the increasing demand. They are also employed in private offices and emergency rooms.

Phlebotomists are occasionally employed by regional blood banks or the Red Cross rather than only serving as volunteers. Phlebotomy on the go is also growing in popularity. Phlebotomists who travel or are mobile perform their profession whenever and wherever required.

Here are some jobs you can do after completing your phlebotomy training program.

Phlebotomy Technician

Blood samples are collected by phlebotomy technicians, who then prepare the samples for examination. In addition to sending the samples to a lab technician, they can take blood samples, soothe patients, or provide information. Some phlebotomy technicians can also update a patient’s vital signs or the state of their medical data.

Veterinary Technician

In caring for and administering medical treatments to animals, veterinary technicians work with a licensed veterinarian. When an animal is in the veterinary clinic, they can aid with medical therapies, feed and walk the animal, monitor its temperature, and take other vital signs. To assist in identifying sick animals, veterinary technicians with phlebotomy certificates may also take blood samples and conduct testing.

Laboratory Assistants

In a laboratory environment, laboratory assistants support scientists and researchers. They can set up supplies for experiments, document experiment findings, and maintain lab equipment. Some lab assistants may also collect samples and carry out fundamental analysis.

Emergency Medical Technician

Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) offer primary medical care and transportation services during an emergency. They can respond to medical emergencies, render life-sustaining treatment like CPR, dispense medication, and transfer patients into an ambulance. EMTs can also provide a hospital doctor with a brief explanation of a patient’s medical condition.

Phlebotomy Instructor

The fundamental methods and recommended phlebotomy procedures are taught to pupils by phlebotomy instructors. They may share important information about preparing test samples, taking blood, and cleaning medical equipment. Working in a community college or vocational school, a phlebotomy teacher frequently aids others in obtaining their phlebotomy certificates.

Phlebotomist Supervisors

Phlebotomist supervisors are in charge of a group of phlebotomists at a medical facility. In addition to conducting performance evaluations and monitoring blood draws, they may ensure that their staff adheres to health and safety guidelines. Certain phlebotomist managers may perform blood tests and other technical tasks.

Medical Assistant

Medical assistants support doctors with routine administrative and medical chores in a healthcare facility, such as a hospital or doctor’s office. Typical responsibilities of a medical assistant are collecting a patient’s vital signs and medical history, treating a wound, and giving them the correct information. Additionally, many medical assistants carry out routine laboratory testing, and blood draws.

Medical Laboratory Personnel

Testing samples for medical lab tests and procedures is the primary responsibility of medical laboratory personnel. In addition to performing medical tests, labeling and storing samples, calibrating and maintaining test equipment, and informing patients about their test findings are their duties. Also, technicians with a phlebotomy certificate can frequently draw test samples from patients directly.

Benefits of Working as a Phlebotomist at the Red Cross

By enrolling in the Red Cross Phlebotomy Training, you may learn how to take blood samples and interact with patients. You will have the chance to advance your career and find the ideal employment in the future. Even if you receive your training there, you are not required to work for the American Red Cross.

Both entry-level and seasoned professionals can regularly find phlebotomy positions at the American Red Cross. Opportunities vary by area, so inquire with your neighborhood Red Cross office or browse job websites for the most recent ads. Phlebotomy positions with the American Red Cross pay between $10 and $23 per hour.

Being employed by this company may be a rewarding experience. It supplies roughly half of the blood needed by the country. As a result, they are constantly searching for excellent phlebotomists to join their team. You may benefit from being hired ahead of other candidates if you have successfully finished their training program.

The Red Cross offers several advantages to its employees. Some benefits include personal plans and discounts, medical insurance, paid time off, savings plans, commuter benefits, and employee assistance programs.

Volunteering After Phlebotomy Training

Although it’s not required, volunteering is still an excellent way to get experience and sharpen your talents. At the beginning of your career, hospitals and clinics may not offer jobs to inexperienced phlebotomists. You can readily volunteer at Red Cross and gain valuable experience in such situations.

You may also volunteer at other organizations such as nursing homes, prisons, veterans’ hospitals, plasma donation centers, and local blood banks. Some hospitals may also hire volunteers during times of high demand.

Advantages of Taking Phlebotomy Training at Red Cross

The Red Cross Training is crucial because it enables you to receive the information and skill training you need to find the exact solution you need. You would no longer need to be concerned about your safety or health because you would have learned the art of preserving harmony in all aspects of life, including safety and health.

Thanks to this course, you can learn all the fundamental facts about health and safety. It will give you the life-saving abilities to help others in need.

You don’t have to spend much money because the Red Cross phlebotomy training program is affordable. The price of Red Cross phlebotomy training is $965. However, it is expected to fluctuate annually. It covers both the course price and the tuition.

You can finish training and begin your career as a phlebotomist in less than one year. You also get volunteering opportunities at Red Cross after completing your program. Moreover, it will boost your resume and provide more employment opportunities at reputable organizations.

Winding Up

Phlebotomy is an in-demand career that is both rewarding and satisfying. Due to technological advancements, it has become easier to determine illness with blood tests. It has also led to a high demand for phlebotomists. By selecting the correct position, you may advance your career by learning venipuncture techniques and how to interact with patients. People who wish to begin a healthcare career or learn new skills to advance