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Are you interested in enrolling in a phlebotomy training program? If so, you might have a good idea of what to expect, but our programs are much more than just drawing blood. As a student, you’ll be learning a procedure called venipuncture to collect blood from patients for testing, transfusions, research, and donations, but that’s just the tip of the syringe!
This blog will guide you through everything you need to know about CALRegional’s phlebotomy training. From learning the basics through lectures to putting your skills to the test in our hands-on lab, you’ll certainly enter the medical field prepared.
We’ll cover what you need to know before you begin the phlebotomy training course and what to expect after graduating and receiving your national CPT (certified phlebotomy technician) certification. Keep reading to get a pulse on what our course has in store for you.
What Qualifications Does Phlebotomy Training Require?
Before enrolling in our program, you may be wondering if you meet the right criteria for the program. There are a few prerequisites you must meet. These include:
- 18+ years of age.
- A high school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
- No felony/certain misdemeanor convictions on record.
And don’t worry, no previous medical experience is required. You’ll even learn everything you need to know to become a successful phlebotomist, but we’ll get to that a little later.
How Long is Phlebotomy Training?
CALRegional’s phlebotomy training is 3-12 weeks of instruction. Students with the ability to attend classes Monday-Friday can take the full-time approach and finish their training in as little as 3 weeks.
However, we understand that a Monday-Friday schedule doesn’t work for everyone. That’s why we offer 12-week classes and even night courses. If you are concerned about fitting phlebotomy training into your schedule, consider attending an info session to learn which option is right for you.
Read Enough?
CALRegional’s Phlebotomy Training Program
Our phlebotomy training classes equip you with the knowledge and skills required to perform blood draws safely and efficiently. The program consists of 50% lectures and 50% labs. This means you will alternate days of lectures with days of hands-on training. All of our phlebotomy classes are 100% in-person.
Lecture: The Basics of Phlebotomy
During the lecture part of your phlebotomy training program, our expert instructors will teach you the fundamentals of being a phlebotomist, various techniques for drawing blood, medical terminology, and what you can expect on a typical day of work.
Some of the topics included in CALRegional phlebotomy training lectures include:
- Human anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology with emphasis on the circulatory system
- Proper identification of patient and specimens for accuracy in patient care
- Proper selection and preparation of skin puncture site and antiseptic
- Blood collection equipment and proper order of draw
- Safety protocols, advanced infectious disease control, and biohazards
- And much more!
Drawing blood isn’t for the faint of heart. You’ll also learn how to effectively communicate with your patients to make them feel at ease during the procedure.
Lab: Mastering the Art of Venipuncture
Our phlebotomy training isn’t just learning the difference between veins and arteries or red and white blood cells. It’s time to put your gloves on. The lab is a controlled, hands-on environment where you’ll learn to apply the knowledge learned in the classroom.
During the lab portion of the phlebotomy training program and under the supervision of your instructor, you will perform the following:
- Venipuncture: the puncturing of a vein to withdraw blood
- Butterfly needles: devices used to draw blood
- Evacuated tube systems (ETS): the most common way to collect blood specimens
- Syringe methods of draw: various methods of drawing blood to accommodate specific scenarios and patient needs such as pediatric and geriatric applications.
- Properly handling and labeling samples
- Maintaining a sterile work environment to prevent contamination
The lab is critical for gaining confidence in using phlebotomy equipment such as needles, tourniquets, and collection tubes. You’ll simulate real-world scenarios ranging from routine blood draws to more complex procedures to prepare you for your future career in the healthcare field.
Our phlebotomy training students practice drawing blood on fellow students, volunteers, or patients. CALRegional phlebotomy students get the required amount of blood draws per state requirements so that they feel confident in their skills upon exiting the program.
Externship: Real Phlebotomy Technician Experience
If you are a Texas student, you can skip this section because externships are only currently offered through California phlebotomy training programs and are not required by the State of Texas.
California requires clinical externships in order to obtain state licensure. CALRegional externships are built into the phlebotomy program so that students can get clinical experience fast and conveniently in a real healthcare setting.
During your externship, you will work under the guidance of experienced phlebotomists and healthcare professionals. Your externship is important for several reasons:
- It allows you to practice your skills in a real-world environment
- You gain exposure to different types of patients and medical conditions
- You learn to work efficiently in a fast-paced clinical setting
- You build professional relationships that can aid in job placement
Externships provide a bridge between classroom learning and professional practice, ensuring you are well-prepared for your career. You can learn the ins and outs of externships in another blog post here.
National Certification Exam: Put Your Phlebotomy Training to the Test
When you complete the CALRegional program, you will be prepared to take the exam for Phlebotomy Technician Certification through the American Medical Certification Association (AMCA). The national exam is taken on-site on the last day of class from a computer. There are a total of 100 questions on the exam and an allotted time of two hours. Don’t let test jitters get the best of you, CALRegional phlebotomy students have a 91% exam passing rate.
The certification exam tests your knowledge and skills in areas such as:
- Professionalism and Regulatory Compliance
- Infection Control and Safety
- Patient Identification, Assessment and Site Preparation
- Equipment Selection and Maintenance
- Collection of Blood and Non-Blood Specimens
- Specimen Processing and Transportation
While certification requirements vary by state, obtaining the national certification enhances your job prospects and credibility. Passing this exam demonstrates your knowledge and commitment to phlebotomy, making you a more attractive candidate to potential employers. This milestone marks your completion of the course and at last, you are officially a certified phlebotomy technician!
A Note on State Licensure
Licensure requirements vary state by state. Texas does not require licensure at the state level. However, for California students, once you pass the exam, you may apply for state licensure CPT1 through the CDPH, Laboratory Field Services.
The Benefits of Becoming a Phlebotomy Training Specialist
Phlebotomy is a rewarding career healthcare field in more ways than one.
High Demand for Phlebotomists
The demand for your expertise is on the rise. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of phlebotomists is projected to grow 17% from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.
Various Work Environments
Phlebotomy training gives you the ability to work in a variety of settings ranging from hospitals, healthcare clinics, laboratories, blood donation centers, and many more. With so many options to choose from, you can choose a work environment that best suits your preferences and lifestyle.
Competitive Salary and Room for Growth
CPT’s earn competitive salaries and many employers also offer benefits including health insurance, PTO, and retirement plans. Phlebotomy training is often the first stepping stone towards numerous career paths such as becoming a medical assistant or registered nurse.
Personal Fulfillment
Additionally, working as a phlebotomist impacts patients’ lives. Your knowledge and expertise in drawing blood play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating medical conditions. Interactions with patients can be highly rewarding as well. Whether it’s cracking a joke with someone’s grandmother or helping a child get over their fear of needles, you provide comfort during the blood drawing process.
Bonus: Make Friends & Have a Mentor for Life
If you take just one look at CALRegional reviews online, you’re bound to see comments from prior students who obtained more than just a certification during their program – they gained memories to last a lifetime. Just check out some of these comments from our graduates below.
I will miss the family I made in my Saturday class. -Naly X.
Best teacher ever. Will stay in touch after the class. – Oleysa R.
One of the best takeaways is we all became friends outside of class. – Michelle P
Today was the final day of class, and I am not exaggerating when I say that I actually teared up. I didn’t want it to end. – Valarie R.
How Much Does Phlebotomy Training Cost
Our CPT program costs $2,995 or less. This fee includes tuition, the national exam, and CPR certification.
Does CALRegional Offer Financial Aid?
We do not offer financial aid; however, easy interest-free payment plans are available and everyone qualifies. During the enrollment process, students place a deposit to secure their spot in class. The rest of the balance can be spread over the course of 3-6 months, depending on the program length. Our students graduate debt-free.
Congratulations! You’re a Certified Phlebotomist!
After completing the lectures, labs, and externship (where required) and passing the national exam, you’ll be a certified phlebotomist. Each step of our comprehensive phlebotomy training program is designed to build your knowledge and skills so you can enter the healthcare workforce with confidence.
Becoming a certified phlebotomist is an incredible accomplishment. You’ll not only enhance your professional skills for a new career path, you’ll contribute to the overall well-being of the patients you serve and make friends along the way. Lastly, if you’re interested in taking CALRegional’s Phlebotomy Training Program, contact us today to schedule a consultation with an admission specialist.
