Multiple phlebotomy certification agencies exist, all which offer specific training courses. Not all phlebotomy certification organizations are created equally. Although similar, their program curriculum's will vary somewhat and you may find that some employers do not give as much "weight" to certain organizations certificates.
When deciding on a decent phlebotomy training course , try to find one that is recognized by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS), uses materials and examinations that reverberate CLSI standards, and qualifies graduates for an test through an external certification agency.
As of 2010, ten different phlebotomy certification organizations exist. When searching for phlebotomist certification agencies, you will find that ASCP and NPA are two of the most popular choices. The requirements to become a certified phlebotomist deviate by agency and are outlined below.
For example, The American Certification Agency for Healthcare Professionals offers two phlebotomy certification options; phlebotomy techs and phlebotomy instructors. In order to qualify for the phlebotomist examination, one hundres hours of on-hands training must have been compoleted (this includes one hundred successful venipunctures and 10 dermal punctures). Obtaining your phlebotomy certification isn't as easy as writing an exam online. You must also pass a practical test where actual job duties mut be performed on patients. You have to be a registered LPN or RN in order to become a phlebotomy instructor. An examination is not necessary; but applicants must provide 3 years of blood drawing experience in addition to 1 year of teaching experience.
Those interested in obtaining their certificate for phlebotomy can obtain it through AMT. Those applying must have successfully passed a phlebotomist program that meets standards set out by the USDE, as well as 120 hours of teaching & clicnical work. Alternatively, 1040 hours of work in the phlebotomy field over the last 3 years will suffice. One must also meet the following creteria; have performed at least 25 skin punctures, and 50 venipunctures. In order to make certification easier, AMT offers a number different manuals and reference material to their applicants.
You can also obtain your phlebotomy certificaion and donor certification through The National Center for Competency Testing. You most posess a high school diploma in order to write either test. In order to apply for this certification program, you must have either worked in the phlebotomy field for a year, or have taken a training course from an accredited school. The NCCT also requires a phlebotomy performance form. Due to state laws, California and Louisiana require additional forms. Getting a donor phlebotomist certification, one must have 6 months of experience including 80 successful blood collections.