Phlebotomy is a medical profession where qualified individuals draw blood from patients. The procedure is not that difficult once you learn the basics. It involves inserting a needle into a vein or artery to extract blood samples. There are two types of phlebotomists: technicians and nurses.
Technicians perform simple procedures such as taking blood pressure readings, drawing blood, and giving injections. Nurses perform complex procedures such as administering intravenous fluids, catheter insertion, and drawing blood.
If you’re looking for a job in the medical field, you may be wondering if it’s hard to find a job as a phlebotomist. The answer to that question depends on where you are looking for work.
Finding work as a phlebotomist may be a little harder if you’re in a smaller town or rural area because there aren’t as many opportunities.
However, finding work shouldn’t be too difficult if you’re in a larger city with more hospitals and clinics. Keep in mind that the demand for phlebotomists is increasing, so your chances of finding work are good no matter where you are.
So if you have the skills and qualifications necessary for this career, don’t hesitate to pursue it!
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Phlebotomist and a medical assistant: What’s the difference?
Hospitals and clinics typically employ medical assistants as part of the administrative team within the front office. They assist doctors and nurses with scheduling appointments, billing patients, and providing patient education. This includes answering questions about insurance coverage and referring patients to specialists.
Phlebotomists, on the other hand, are trained to perform blood draws and administer vaccines. Their training focuses heavily on anatomy and physiology and handling needles and syringes safely in different situations, including difficult ones. Phlebotomy technicians often work in a hospital setting, while medical assistants work outside a clinic environment.
Is phlebotomy a good career?

Phlebotomy is considered one of the most versatile careers out there. There are many different types of jobs within the field, including medical transcriptionists, laboratory technicians, clinical research coordinators, and even veterinary technicians.
All of those positions require some form of blood collection, which makes it one of the easiest professions to enter into.
There are no licensing requirements to work as a phlebotomist, and you don’t need special education or certifications to begin working in the field.
However, several steps are involved in becoming certified as a phlebotomy technician. These include taking a basic course, passing a certification exam, and completing a practicum.
What are the prerequisites for working as a phlebotomist?
A phlebotomist must undergo extensive phlebotomy training program and education. Sometimes, it requires a high school diploma or General Educational Development (GED). Other states allow phlebotomy technicians to learn on the job. However, many states require coursework and passing a licensing exam before allowing someone to practice phlebotomy. Check your state’s specific requirements.
Is it Easy to Find Work as a Phlebotomist?

Phlebotomists are vital members of the healthcare team. They draw blood samples from patients who require testing. In some cases, they must perform multiple draws per day.
The demand for phlebotomy jobs is high. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for phlebotomists are expected to grow by 11% over the next decade.
But many factors influence whether or not someone gets hired. One of those factors is experience. And according to the American Society for Clinical Pathology, the number one reason phlebotomists don’t get hired is lack of knowledge.
What Information Will I Gain During Phlebotomy Training?
Phlebotomists undergo extensive and challenging training during their careers. They learn how to draw blood safely and accurately including difficult situations.
They learn about the types of needles used for drawing blood and how to use them properly. They know what equipment is needed to draw blood and where (blood bank) it should be stored.
They become familiar with medical terminology and know how to communicate effectively with patients including the challenging ones. And they learn how to maintain proper hygiene while working. This helps prepare them for jobs in hospitals, clinics, doctor offices, labs, and even retail stores.
Phlebotomy: How to Land a Job?

If you want to become a certified phlebotomist, there are many things that you need to consider. One of them is how to apply for a phlebotomy job.
To land easy in a phlebotomy position, it is important to ensure that you have a well-written resume. This way, you can showcase your skills and qualifications to employers.
If you want to start a career as a phlebotomist today, here are some tips you can follow.
- First, make a resume. People create extensive resumes because they believe it looks better. Companies prefer shorter ones, however. Keep your resume brief.
- Second, incorporate all phlebotomy knowledge. You can’t include job experience until you’ve worked in the field for a time. Emphasize your abilities and education. You may add extra certifications. These will set you distinct.
- Third, employ job-related keywords. If the job demands hospital experience, say so. Discuss the medical devices you’ve utilized.
- Fourth, emphasize your value to employers. Make sure to highlight your qualifications. Also, emphasize your willingness to learn. Emphasize timeliness and professionalism.
Phlebotomy Internships
Hospitals are always looking for qualified people to join their teams. Phlebotomists are one of those jobs where it pays to be good. So, why not start your career by working as an intern for a hospital? You can learn a lot about blood collection and storing them in blood banks while gaining hands-on experience. And, once you’ve finished your training, you’ll probably find yourself being offered permanent employment such as in blood donation centers.
On-the-Job Training

On-the-job training (OJT) and internship programs are often confused, but there is a difference. OJT is offered by many companies, while educational institutions typically provide internships. Both require a lot of work on your part, though.
For example, an OJT requires hours of training and practice for you to become certified. Internships usually include training and classes, as well as paid employment, depending on the type of organization. Some employers even provide housing during the internship period.
Become a Certified Phlebotomist
Phlebotomy certification requires passing a test administered by the National Certification Board for Phlebotomy Technicians & Practitioners. There are three levels of testing: basic, intermediate, and advanced. To take the test, candidates must pass the written portion and complete a hands-on demonstration.
Jobs for Phlebotomist Novices in My Area
Phlebotomy jobs are in high demand. In fact, according to CareerCast, there are about 2 million openings nationwide. And while most people think that a healthcare career requires a college degree, that isn’t necessarily true. While some employers prefer candidates with formal training, others will hire anyone with basic skills. So, where do you start? Here are some tips to help you land a phlebotomy position.
- Use Online Job Boards
- Do Your Research
- Network
Frequently Asked Questions
When do most phlebotomists put in their shifts?
Phlebotomy technicians often work for three years throughout their careers. However, the place of employment affects how many hours a phlebotomist works. A phlebotomist employed at a clinic or donation facility could put in an eight-hour day that is about average, but one employed in a hospital might put in up to 20 hours per week.
Phlebotomists are required to work some nights and weekends, especially in hospitals. These days, most employers prefer to hire experienced phlebotomists because it makes life easy for everyone involved specially in meeting challenging situations.
Is it worthwhile to become a phlebotomist?

A career in phlebotomy is one of the most stable careers ever. You can work anywhere, with an average salary (depending on where you are working), and there are no licensing requirements. To become a phlebotomist, you do not need a high school diploma. However, there are some things you must know about this career before entering into it.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employment opportunities for phlebotomy technicians are expected to grow faster than average over the next several years. This growth is projected to be driven by increased medical testing and diagnostic equipment demand.
Phlebotomy technicians earn a reasonable hourly wage depending on where they work. Most employers offer health insurance benefits and paid vacation time. Depending on your work facility, you may be eligible for bonuses and commission pay.
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Where Can I Look for Phlebotomy Work?
Hospitals are one of the most common places where phlebotomists work, but you don’t necessarily have to start in a hospital setting. There are plenty of other options. For example, some phlebotomists work in emergency rooms because it gives them access to many potential clients.
Others prefer working in home health care settings. Still, others opt to work in retail stores, such as grocery stores or pharmacies. Some phlebotomists find jobs in schools, nursing homes, veterinary offices, and beauty salons.
So, Is it Hard to Find a Job as a Phlebotomist?
The answer may surprise you. Most phlebotomists can secure employment with just certification in phlebotomy or on-the-job training.
However, the competition for these jobs can be steep because there are few open positions, so many people are qualified.
If you’re looking to become a phlebotomist, don’t let that discourage you – our expert resume writers can help give you an edge over the competition. Contact us today for more information!