There are many different organizations which offer phlebotomy programs and courses. Not all phlebotomy certification organizations are created equally. Although similar, their program curriculum’s will vary somewhat and you may find that some employers do not give as much “weight” to certain organizations certificates.
When deciding on a suitable phlebotomist program , try to find one that is recognized by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS), uses materials and examinations that reflect CLSI standards, and qualifies graduates for an examination through an external certification agency.
There are 10 nationally recognized certifying agencies in the United States. When searching for phlebotomist certification agencies, you will find that ASCP and NPA are two of the most popular choices. If you are wondering what is required to become a certified phlebotomist, it all depends on the certification organization that you choose.
ACA offers two different phlebotomy certifications; phlebotomist instructors, and phlebotomist technicians. To be eligible for the phlebotomy technician exam, applicants must have completed 100 clinical hours, 100 successful venipunctures and 10 successful dermal punctures (although 25 are required in Louisiana). There are two separate components of the certification examination-the written component, and the practical element. In order to apply for “phlebotomy instructor” status, there are two requirements. One must either possess an up-to-date phlebotomy certificate, or be a registered nurse. A written examination is not mandatory; instead, those applying must have a year of teaching experience under their belt and have had their phlebotomy certification for three years.
AMT is another well know phlebotomy certification organization that offers individual training courses. Applicants must have graduated from a phlebotomy program accredited by the US Department of Education, a program accredited by the Regional Accrediting Commission, a phlebotomy program consisting of 120 hours of instruction and 120 hours of clinical practicum, or have completed at least 1,040 hours of acceptable work experience in the last three years. Also, one must have performed fifty successful venipunctures along with twenty-five skin punctures. A phlebotomy handbook, reference manuals and practice tests are available through AMT.
Two certifications can be obtained from NCCT; standard phlebotomy certification, and donor phlebotomy certification. There are a couple of additional requirements that you must meet before taking your examination. You must have at least 1 full year of phlebotomy experience, or have attended and graduated an approved phlebotomy course. The NCCT also requires a phlebotomy performance form. Due to state laws, California and Louisiana require additional forms. Obtaining a donor phlebotomist certification, one must have 6 months of experience including 80 successful blood collections.
Considering taking your phlebotomy test? Be sure to visit the “phlebotomy Guide” to find out what you need to know.