Phlebotomy Training and Career Guide Phlebotomy Training Resources and Guides for becoming Certified as a Phlebotomist!
Phlebotomy Training in Louisiana:
Louisiana boasts a rich and diverse culture that inspires culinary adventures, and a
great number of attractions around the state. With a population that exceeds 4,600,000,
Louisiana is also visited by millions of tourists each and every year.
From Baton Rouge to Shreveport, and of course New Orleans, Louisiana is a state that
offers something for everyone. The lure of the Gulf Coast includes offerings of incredible
seafood, while the flora and fauna offer incredible opportunity to observe nature at her
finest.
There are a number of large hospitals and medical facilities all around the state. As a
certified phlebotomist you could expect to earn an average salary of $27,000. This could
be influenced by the years of experience that you have, and of course by where you find
work.
Louisiana is an intriguing and adventure-filled state to live, to play, and to work.
Getting your Phlebotomy Certification in Louisiana:
There are some states in the country that have strict requirements about specific
certification needs so that you can legally work as a phlebotomist. Louisiana is not one
of the states with its own rules about certification.
In fact, you actually are not required to have your certification in hand in order to work
with patients. However, you will find that you are much more likely to land a good job if
you do have it in hand. Hospitals and other medical organizations want to hire only the
best and most qualified of candidates, so it’s important that you put your best foot
forward.
To get your national certification, you need to complete a training course through an
accredited organization. During this training, you will have classroom lectures, time in
the lab, and you will also have a minimum number of clinical rotation hours so that you
can get hands-on experience with patients.
Each school itself may have different requirements, so it’s important that you look into
all of them before making a decision that works best for you.
Some of the requirements could include the following:
- Be a minimum of 18 years old. Some schools may offer some exceptions for the
classroom portion of the training course, but will need students to be 18 prior to
working on patients.
- You will need to be up to date on your vaccinations. You may need to get
additional vaccinations completed prior to starting the course, including a
hepatitis shot.
- You should have your high school diploma or equivalency certificate.
- You should be able to speak, read, and effectively communicate in English.
- You should be able to demonstrate that you have passed a CPR course.
You will potentially also need to undergo a drug test and a background check prior to
working with patients.
Where Phlebotomists Work:
There is an ongoing need for qualified phlebotomists. As one, you’ll find that you have a
number of great options for finding employment. Your skills are always going to be in
high demand.
Here are some of the places that you could find yourself working, as a phlebotomist:
- Hospitals need qualified phlebotomists who can work in a variety of settings.
From the ER to the NICU or working in surgery pre-op. There is no shortage of
need for phlebotomists in hospitals.
- Community health centers often serve the folks in the community who are in
most need of caring providers. You may find yourself working with patients of all
ages, from all walks of life.
- Nursing homes require medical staff with the utmost compassion. You could find
yourself working with those who are also difficult to take blood from, so your
training will come in handy as you work with those who may be frail.
- Blood donation centers can very often be quite busy. You may find yourself
working with dozens of patients each day
There are a number of other types of health care options, including urgent care facilities
and home health care services that will have a need for qualified phlebotomists. With
your phlebotomy certification you’ll be able to get a job at any medical facility. As an
added bonus, you’ll be able to use your nationally recognized certification to work in
almost any other state in the country.
Keep in mind that your certification will need to be renewed every two years if you plan
to continue working.
Finding the Right Phlebotomy School:
One of your first challenges is often finding the right school to meet your needs. If you
are already working right now then it is important to find a course that can fit around
your current schedule. You may find that nighttime classes are the ideal option for you,
or you may find that attending class twice a week is the best choice for your schedule.
Online courses can also prove to be useful.
Make inquiries about the size of the classes. Small classes will allow you to get more
individualized attention in case you have questions or require a bit of extra help along
the way. Be sure to also ask about the qualifications of your instructors. A reputable
facility is going to only hire those who are also certified phlebotomists, medical
assistants, or registered nurses.
Acadiana Area Career College:
Acadiana Area Career College offers a 10 week program that provides students with the
practical and hands-on knowledge needed to pass the certification exam. The course is
200 hours long, and includes a week of clinical rotations.
Official Website:
http://www.aaccweb.com/phlebotomy.htm
Bossier Parish Community College:
Bossier Parish Community College offers a phlebotomy technician course that will
prepare students for working in a variety of real world environments. Prior to enrolling,
students will need to provide proof of immunizations, HIPAA and OSHA certifications,
and proof of medical and malpractice insurance.
View more info on their website:
http://www.bpcc.edu/phlebotomy/index.html
Cameron College:
Cameron College offers a 35 week advanced program so that students graduate the
program as not just qualified to pass the phlebotomy certification exam, but will have the
skills needed for medical office administration.
Website:
http://www.cameroncollege.com/programs/ADVANCED-PHLEBOTOMY-DIPLOMA-PROGRAM
Fortis College-Montgomery
Alaska Career College
Phoenix College
Coconino Community College
Pima Community College
Brookline College-Phoenix
University of Alaska Anchorage
Brookline College-Tempe
Brookline College-Tucson
