A health care professional that is specialized in collecting blood from patients for the diagnosis of a disease is called a phlebotomist. Phlebotomists work in clinics, health care centers and hospitals. Today, there has been an increasing trend for phlebotomist since the salary offered to them is now increasing. When summarizing the job of a phlebotomist it is just simple- it only involves drawing blood samples and sending them to laboratories. But, it is significant for this phlebotomist to follow certain standards and rules when collecting blood samples. They should know how to keep their patients comfortable and at ease by explaining to them the procedure. The phlebotomist will then insert a needle but they must make sure that the site has seen disinfected aseptically.

For one to pursue a career as a phlebotomist, they should be a high school graduate. IF not, they must take necessary steps to acquire a GED. Most schools are looking for a high school diploma before they can offer a phlebotomy training. Having a high school diploma is important since it will be a proof that you have taken the prerequisites like subjects on biology, anatomy and even chemistry. Phlebotomists are also certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation since a lot of employers are requiring it nowadays.

The next step to take is to get trained. You need to complete the entire phlebotomy training. The duration of the training varies depending on the type of school and program you are attending but usually it can be accomplished for six to twelve months. It is important to choose for a school that is accredited since it will guarantee that you are equipped with all the things that you need to know in becoming a successful phlebotomist. The training will includes working on different blood collection methods and procedures. Some schools offer practicum for their students in laboratories since this can also help the students acquire more practical experience and increasing the chances of getting a job.

After the completion of the training program, the final step it to become certified. Every state has different requirements when it comes to certification. It is always best to check on the list of the requirements needed on your state. After you have complied with all the requirements, you need to take and pass the certification exam.

The starting salary for phlebotomist is usually $10 an hour and this will increase up to $13 after 5 years of working experience. There are also traveling phlebotomist that collect blood samples in different locations. Traveling phlebotomists earns more than the regular phlebotomist since they work in additional hours from the regular 40 hours extending to 60 hours. The average hourly salary for traveling phlebotomist is $10 to $15 having a total of $10,000 to $15,000 every year.

Phlebotomist working in government agencies has a lower salary rate of only $35,000 annually and the highest paid are those who are working in private or public hospitals and other health care facility offering a salary of up to $40,000 per year.