Phlebotomist Requirements
A phlebotomist specializes in taking blood from a vein, as well as proper care of one’s patient during the process, equipment, and any documentation that is included. Blood is drawn for various reasons, including transfusions, donations, samples to test for underlying health conditions, and for some disorders that require regular letting of the blood. In order to become a phlebotomist in Oregon, it is necessary to complete the proper training.
Education and Training Required to be a Phlebotomist in Oregon
In order to become a phlebotomist in Oregon, it is not necessary to have previous experience in the health field, math or sciences. Primarily, all interested candidates must be at least 18. They also are required to have a high school diploma or the equivalent. They must complete the specified training of an accredited course. Generally, this involves two semesters of training and will include lecture as well as practical experience. Students will learn about the human anatomy, the proper administration of equipment, and the procedures that are necessary to take blood. In addition to a specified amount of course hours in the classroom, students have a specified amount of clinical training where they will see the process of taking blood, also known in venipuncture, in action. Students will participate in taking blood as well, under the supervision of knowledgeable instructors.
Are Phlebotomists Required to become Certified?
While Oregon does not require certification, it will give students additional advantages to take that step further in their training. They can take the National Phlebotomy Technician PBT exam that fulfills requirements specified by the American Society of Clinical Pathology. Becoming certified will open more doors of opportunity and could mean a higher base salary. Additional preparation is always inviting to employers. Additional training and education is not necessary. However, driven individuals may take advantage of pertinent courses related to the field. Employers may send their phlebotomists for additional training as well for professional development. This is common when there are advances in the field or new equipment has been designed. It is important to be open to new learning experiences in order to be prepared for any job. When phlebotomists get their certification, going above and beyond, they will have increased job mobility, allowing them to get work anywhere.
Phlebotomist Salary in Oregon
An average phlebotomist salary in Oregon starts at around $23,000. However, with experience and certification, including additional training, this could increase to $30,000. Location is key as well. Wages tend to be higher in big cities as opposed to rural areas. Phlebotomists work at a variety of settings, including laboratories, clinics, private practices, hospitals, and government agencies. Pay scales vary.
What are a Phlebotomist’s Job Duties?
Typical duties of a phlebotomist include collecting blood specimens through proper venipuncture techniques, caring for the site of puncture, educating the individual, and taking care of the equipment that is involved. Phlebotomists can legally take blood for medical purposes at approved sites with the permission of patients. They are also required to properly handle samples and all paperwork involved in the process. This often involves digital technology as well during processing. Phlebotomists should be outgoing and have a pleasant manner with their subjects. Patience and caring is essential. It is also important to have first aid skills in the event that an individual has a health crisis while blood is being drawn.