The United States Department of Labor predicts 42,900 new phlebotomy jobs will be added to the workforce between the years 2010 and 2020. These phlebotomy technicians, also referred to as medical laboratory technologists, must be properly trained. This is good news for those aspiring to work as a phlebotomy instructor. Even better news is that there are relaxed guidelines regarding instructor credentials. In most states, you do not need a special license to teach phlebotomy classes. However, most agencies do require you to have a special certification affirming your industry expertise.
Credentialing Agencies
Quite a few agencies offer phlebotomy instructor certifications, including The American Certification Agency, The American Academy of Phlebotomy Technicians and The National Phlebotomy Association. AAPT and ACA certifications are recognized all over the United States. NPA certifications are recognized internationally. Having been around since 1978, the NPA is one of the oldest certifying agencies.
Phlebotomy Training
Enroll in a phlebotomy technician training program recognized and accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences. During training, you learn all about the proper use of phlebotomy equipment, collecting specimen, performing lab preps, communicating with patients and the latest safety regulations. Before enrolling in a training, make sure the program offers at least 42 hours of classroom instruction and 120 hours of hands-on clinical practice. A list of accredited training programs near you are available on the NAACLS website.
Get Experience
Phlebotomy instructors are required to have prior experience working as a phlebotomy technician. How much experience you need varies, depending upon the agency you seek licensing from. For instance, the ACA requires a minimum of three years verifiable experience performing phlebotomy and one year of teaching experience. The AAPT requires you to have five years of verifiable phlebotomy experience and one year of teaching experience. In addition to your professional phlebotomy technician training, you also need a high school diploma or GED.
Requesting Certification
To receive your certification, complete and submit a certification application, along with the necessary application fee, to the agency through which you wish to be certified. The application is usually available on the certifying agency's website. Certification requires passing a two-part written and practical application exam. The exam assesses your knowledge and abilities to perform phlebotomy procedures. Depending upon the agency you are certifying through, continuing education courses may be required to maintain your credentials.
References
Writer Bio
Tara Renee holds a Bachelor of Science in business administration. She is the owner of several small businesses. In her spare time, she loves to share her knowledge and wisdom through writing. Some of her articles have appeared in major media outlets, including "The Atlanta Journal Constitution" and the "Gainesville Times."