Get Certified as a Phlebotomist
Table of Contents
Getting certified as a phlebotomist is essential to ensuring credibility and career growth in the healthcare industry. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the steps involved:
Complete a Phlebotomy Education Program
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by a recognized agency (like NAACLS). Accreditation ensures your education meets industry standards and is accepted by certification bodies.
- Course Content: Expect coursework covering medical terminology, anatomy, blood collection methods, safety protocols, infection control, and legal aspects of phlebotomy.
- Classroom & Practical Experience: Programs typically offer a blend of classroom learning and hands-on clinical training in hospitals, labs, or clinics to practice venipunctures and capillary punctures.
Tip: Some programs offer online or hybrid formats, but hands-on clinical training is always required.
Meet Hands-On Training Requirements
- Successful Venipunctures: Depending on the certification body, you must complete several blood draws to prove your competency. For example, the NPA requires 200 successful venipunctures, while ASCP requires a minimum of 100 blood draws.
- Clinical Hours: Most programs include clinical externships where you gain experience under the supervision of licensed phlebotomists. The minimum number of hours varies, but programs typically range from 40-160 hours.
- Capillary Sticks: In addition to venipunctures, capillary punctures (finger sticks) are also required.
Tip: Some training programs partner with healthcare providers to streamline externships, helping you meet these requirements more efficiently.
Choose a Certification Body
- NHA: The Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) certification is widely accepted in labs and hospitals.
- ASCP: The Phlebotomy Technician (PBT) certification is highly respected, especially for clinical lab work.
- AMT: Known for offering the Registered Phlebotomy Technician (RPT) certification, which is ideal for those who want more broad healthcare credentials.
- NPA: Focuses exclusively on phlebotomy certifications with rigorous hands-on requirements.
- ACA: Provides a cost-effective option with the Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) credential, often recommended for those entering the field quickly.
Tip: Research which certifications are preferred by your state or your target employers. Some states have stricter certification requirements.
Prepare for the Certification Exam
- Study Materials: Certification bodies provide official study guides, webinars, and practice exams. Consider enrolling in prep courses if you need extra support.
- Content Areas: Expect exam questions on anatomy, venipuncture techniques, infection control, patient interaction, and specimen handling.
- Hands-On Practice: Phlebotomy is as much about practical skill as knowledge. Work on perfecting your venipuncture technique, tube labeling, and patient care.
- Exam Format: Most exams are multiple-choice, but some may include practical skill evaluations depending on the certification body.
Tip: Review each certification body’s exam blueprints to know which areas to focus on during your study.
Take the Certification Exam
- Register Early: Register at least a month before your intended test date. Slots fill up fast, especially in high-demand areas.
- Exam Day: Be prepared to show proof of education, clinical experience, and identification.
- Duration: Exams typically last 2-3 hours with 100-150 multiple-choice questions. Some may require a hands-on practical test.
- Exam Fees: The cost ranges from $90 to $200 depending on the certification body. Most offer discounts for students or members of affiliated training programs.
Tip: Some certification bodies, like the NHA, offer the option to take the exam online with a proctor, adding flexibility to scheduling.
Obtain and Maintain Your Certification
- Certification Validity: Most certifications are valid for 2-3 years. To remain certified, you’ll need to renew by completing continuing education credits (CECs) and paying renewal fees.
- Continuing Education: Bodies like the ASCP and NHA require anywhere from 6 to 9 continuing education credits every renewal period. This ensures you stay updated on the latest practices in phlebotomy.
- Renewal Process: This usually involves submitting proof of CECs, a renewal application, and a fee. Be sure to renew on time to avoid penalties or having to retake the certification exam.
Tip: Some employers offer reimbursement or support for continuing education, so ask about options at your workplace.
Apply for Jobs and Start Your Career
- Build a Resume: Highlight your certification(s), clinical training, and any additional relevant skills like patient care or lab experience. Include any specific competencies such as pediatric or geriatric phlebotomy.
- Job Settings: Phlebotomists work in hospitals, blood donation centers, outpatient clinics, diagnostic labs, and long-term care facilities. Depending on your preference, some jobs require more direct patient interaction, while others focus on lab work.
- Networking: Use career services at your training institution or certification body to find job openings. Online job boards like Indeed or specialized healthcare job sites like Health eCareers are also good resources.
Tip: Some states or healthcare organizations have mandatory state licensing in addition to certification, so research any additional local requirements.
By following these detailed steps, you’ll be fully prepared to navigate the certification process and start your career as a certified phlebotomist. For the latest information and to register for exams, visit: