If you live in Montana and have decided that you want to become a phlebotomist, you should know that this can be a very advantageous career path for you to pursue. In order to ensure that you are successful in the venture, it’s a good idea to learn as much about this vocational field as possible. To do so, review the brief outline provided below.
The Phlebotomist-A Brief Overview
A phlebotomist is an individual who serves patients by preparing various specimens for testing in a lab. There are a plethora of job duties that a phlebotomist can be responsible for completing, and some of them include:
• Verifying test requisitions through the process of comparing data with the nursing station log
• Verifying patient identification
• Obtaining the patient’s blood specimens through fingersticks and venipunctures
• Maintaining the integrity of the specimen through the use of aseptic techniques in concordance with departmental rules and regulations
• Tracking specimens that have been collected through processes such as noting time of collection, dating, and initialling
• Monitoring the patient’s glucose levels by providing glucose tests at his or her bedside
• Notifying pathologists of any bleeding-times tests that fall outside of acceptable ranges
Educational Requirements
The traditional two to four year degrees are not required in order for an individual to practice phlebotomy. Generally, people can begin a career in this sector after just four to twelve months of study. However, it’s important to note that individuals who pursue a degree will likely become more marketable job candidates. There are three degree types that an individual who hopes to become a phlebotomist can select from: the certificate, associate’s, and bachelor’s degree.
The Certification Process
At this time, Montana does not have any certification or licensure requirements. However, it is important to note that attaining certification is almost always a good idea. This is the case because prospective employers take the acquisition of a certification as a sign that the job applicant has acquired the knowledge and hands-on skills necessary to do expedient, excellent work. In order to attain national certification, you can take one of many qualifying exams offered by reputable institutions. For example, the American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians offers an exam that can qualify an individual to become a certified phlebotomy technician.
The Phlebotomist Salary in Montana
The average annual salary for a phlebotomist will vary based on a plethora of factors including but not limited to level of experience, workplace, and areas of specialty. However, the average annual income is currently $30,858.
The Advantages Of Ongoing Education
While employers may not require phlebotomists to participate in continuing educational courses (CEC), doing so is always a good idea. This is the case for several reasons, including the fact that it makes you a more marketable job candidate. When you invest resources (such as time and money) in earning more education within your field, prospective employers often view it as an act of initiative which indicates you possess the type of independence and self-starting mentality that could be of benefit to their company. Additionally, participating in ongoing education courses means that you’ll be able to access and utilize the type of cutting edge methodologies that make you an asset to any company in search of excellence and expedience.
Conclusion
If you are thinking about pursuing a career as a phlebotomist, you should note that doing so can be the start of a personally rewarding and professionally advantageous career. By reviewing the brief outline regarding how to become a phlebotomist in Montana that appears above, you will likely get your career off the ground and running soon.