Sunday, August 15, 2010

The Advantages Of Online Phlebotomy Certification

Phlebotomists are healthcare workers that draw blood samples for analysis. Doctors use the results as an important diagnostic tool. They are knowledgeable of human anatomy and physiology, especially of the cardiovascular system. They receive specialized training and many choose to become certified technicians.

There are many benefits to obtaining one's phlebotomy certification. Certification of practicing phlebotomy technicians is not required by law in the United States, except in California and Louisiana. However, the many employers of phlebotomists (including hospitals, private healthcare clinics, laboratories, and blood banks) choose only to hire certified phlebotomists. Having offline or online phlebotomy certification demonstrates that the phlebotomist has a thorough understanding of blood collection standards and protocols set by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

Many phlebotomists acquire online phlebotomy certification.

Completing an online phlebotomy training program is not the equivalent of offline phlebotomy certification. To be eligible for offline and online certification, technicians must complete a phlebotomy training program. A program must be accredited to be recognized by certifying agencies and employers. Accreditation is awarded through the United States Department of Education, the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Standards (NAACLS), or similar. Good training programs use the materials and guidelines set by the CLSI. Like many other training programs, phlebotomy training is available in a traditional classroom setting as well as online. Traditional programs, offered through community colleges, medical facilities, and career or vocational colleges, provide hours of classroom and hands-on clinical instruction. Choosing an online program can give the student the freedom to set their own schedule, which is especially beneficial for those working part or full time. However, it is important to select an online program that also provides clinical instruction or helps students set up internships. Hands-on experience is necessary to qualify for certification exams.

Acquiring online certification is done through ten national certifying agencies. These agencies include the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT), the American Phlebotomy Association (APA), and the National Phlebotomy Association (NPA).Most certifying agencies accept online applications on a continuous basis. Online phlebotomy certification can be completed at the convenience of the applicant. Freedom of scheduling is a major benefit to online phlebotomy certification. Online phlebotomy certification consists of a standardized exam, which is completed online. Certification is awarded upon successful completion. Some certifying agencies will also require a practical portion, which cannot be completed online.

There are many resources available to students pursuing online phlebotomy certification. Textbooks, such as Phlebotomy Essentials (4th edition) by Ruth E McCall and Cathee M Tankersley, provide comprehensive information that covers phlebotomy techniques, safety protocols, and legal issues. Numerous phlebotomy workbooks and practice tests are available. Practice exams and review guides designed for online phlebotomy certification preparation are available through each certifying agency.

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