The practice of phlebotomy, also referred to as bloodletting, dates back in ancient times when people used it as a technique to cure illnesses. Its application to medicine started in 5th century Greece when drawing out blood was believed to cure ailments. In the middle ages, it was typically carried out by barber-surgeons Throughout the years, the application of this technique was greatly improved so now it is deemed as a safe, systematic and painless procedure. The field of health care is currently using phlebotomy for both treatment and diagnostic procedures such as hemochromatosis, also known as blood transfusion, and polycythemia, a process of removing excess red blood cell and iron from the body.
There are actually a lot of people who want to have a career in phlebotomy since it only requires a short period of training to be qualified for the job. In the US alone a person with relevant phlebotomy training can earn at least $ 20,000 annually. Those who have phlebotomy certification and relevant hospital experience can earn twice as much annually.
Since the job involves routine blood extraction, a good understanding of aseptic technique, proper sharps disposal and hospital waste management, as well as good communication skills are necessary. Aside from the fact that there are bachelor or associate degree courses which make phlebotomy part of its curriculum, shorter certificate courses are alse available for people who do not want to have longer period of training. These phlebotomy training and certification programs equip students the basic competencies required for finding work at entry level.
Some countries such as the UK and Australia offer phlebotomy training in hospitals where students can acquire experience and get a certificate upon completion. In the US however, especially in the State of California and Louisiana, phlebotomy certification is a requisite for practice. Although other states do not strictly impose this requirement, hospitals have since become more partial to hire jobseekers who have attended phlebotomy classes.
If you want to acquire phlebotomy certification in America, you have to undergo phlebotomy training or other related courses from an accredited school, after which you can apply for one at the American Society for Clinical Pathology or the Association of Phlebotomy Technicians. Those who already have a year of work experience as a phlebotomist may seek certification through National Phlebotomy Association.
It is said that the employment rate in this field will increase in the years to come, it is better if you obtain certification as early as now so that you can be guaranteed a job that you truly desire.
