Getting Your Phlebotomy Certification Online

Those with busy schedules should consider getting their phlebotomy certification online. Online certification is a convenient alternative for those that do not have the time to attend training in the classroom. Although even online phlebotomy certification courses will require some hands-on training, they require much less classroom time than those courses that have no web-based component.

The online courses are quite extensive, and include anatomy, venipuncture, physiology and laboratory practices. Some of the material can easily be learned by textbook and online video, while other material is best to be learned in the classroom with hands-on training. Most certification programs will require a minimum number of hands-on or classroom hours in order to graduate.

Enrollment in phlebotomy training programs requires a high school diploma. Programs may also look take volunteer work in to account when selecting applicants. Most employers require a diploma from an accredited phlebotomy college, or school, although this isn’t the case 100% of the time. Online certification programs offer basic courses that will help you prepare for required internships. Online phlebotomy certificate and diploma programs can be finished in as little as 90 days; associate degrees in phlebotomy may take up to 18 months months, while bachelor degrees from phlebotomy universities normally take 2 years.

Once you have received your online phlebotomy certification, you will have many different job opportunities. Some of the most common types of organizations that will hire phlebotomists include:

- Hospitals
- Medical Offices
- Private clinics
- Blood labs

In all clinical settings a phlebotomists primary job is to draw blood from patients. They are not expected to administer medications or fluids through venipuncture. With that being said, performing tasks other than collection of blood may be part of the job requirement depending on the setting. Prepping tests or collecting and testing urine samples may be required. Some clinics may also expect a phlebotomist to handle certain clerical and administrative tasks as well. The skills required to perform the additional jobs are covered in all of the major phlebotomy certification training programs.

The main benefits of getting your phlebotomy certification online is that it can be worked in to almost anyone’s schedule, regardless of how busy you may be. Those that are already working a full-time job can work study course material in the comfort of their own home at a time that is convenient with them. Online courses are also very helpful because they often include video and audio demonstrations, making them much more in-depth and easier to follow.