Phlebotomy Technician Career Opportunities in NJ and PA

People interested in pursuing a meaningful career should consider a profession in the healthcare industry. Many of these roles, such as phlebotomy, do not require a four-year degree, streamlining your journey from student to professional. Pennco Tech, a premier trade school with campuses in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, aids those who wish to become phlebotomists by offering a Medical Assistant Program. Through this program, students learn the necessary skills to apply for this position, as well as related roles. Learn more about what a phlebotomist does and possible career opportunities for graduates.

What Is a Phlebotomist?

Healthcare professionals are trained to provide quality, comprehensive care for patients. Phlebotomists achieve this through blood draw procedures, where samples are taken for tests or donations. Depending on the facility, other duties of a phlebotomist can include:

• Determining the best collection methods for specific patients, such as infants or the elderly
• Preparing blood-draw areas, ensuring they’re safe and sanitary for each patient
• Labeling vials with the patients’ names, dates, and other information
• Safely transporting blood samples to laboratories for testing
• Ensuring proper packaging and storage for the preservation of blood donations
• Checking patients for health issues, such as diseases, bacteria, and cholesterol
• Monitoring vital signs, such as blood pressure and heart rate
• Keeping the phlebotomy cart or station well-organized and maintaining inventory
• Answering patients’ questions about collection techniques and providing additional resources if requested
• Preparing blood samples for testing

Required Education

Qualified phlebotomists must be knowledgeable in proper handling techniques and disposal policies. They must also understand the legal requirements in their area of expertise and the use of relevant medical equipment. Prospective students can begin by enrolling in the Medical Assistant Program at Pennco Tech in Bristol, PA, or Blackwood, NJ.

As a Pennco Tech student, you will take courses led by dedicated instructors. The well-rounded curriculum of our Medical Assistant Program covers a range of topics that can be applied to a variety of roles in the medical field, including phlebotomy. Topics covered include:

• Developing a professional medical vocabulary
• Safety protocol and accident prevention
• Medical equipment operating procedures
• Office procedures
• Healthcare best practices
• Anatomy and physiology

A key component of phlebotomy training involves practical applications of skills learned. Students have the opportunity to practice drawing blood with fake arms. This better prepares them for live sticks with patients.

Benefits of Being a Phlebotomy Technician

For many people, a career in phlebotomy is highly rewarding. Plus, it may serve as a stepping stone for other healthcare positions in the future. Reasons to become a phlebotomy technician include:

Personal Fulfillment

As a phlebotomy technician, you work closely with both medical professionals and patients. While responsible for successfully drawing blood samples, you play an integral role in providing quality care to those who need it most. The samples you take help physicians and specialists accurately diagnose and monitor medical conditions, allowing patients to receive the treatments they need.

Job Security

Like most positions in the medical field, a benefit of becoming a phlebotomy technician is knowing your role is likely in high demand. Plus, you can work in a variety of settings, as several kinds of facilities need skilled and qualified professionals to safely draw and process blood samples.

Salary Potential

Another advantage of becoming a phlebotomist is the ability to earn a great income without needing an advanced degree. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for phlebotomy technicians was $37,380 in 2021.

Healthcare Career Opportunities Available

Once completing the Medical Assistant Program at Pennco Tech, graduates have a diverse knowledge of the medical field, allowing them to pursue a wide range of roles. Possible career opportunities for healthcare professionals trained in phlebotomy include:

• Medical technologist or medical lab technician
• Patient care technician
• Cytotechnologist
• Histotechnologist and histotechnician
• Pathologist assistant
• Dialysis technician
• Nurse
• Intravenous technician
• Medical assistant

Begin Your Journey Toward a Meaningful Medical Profession at Pennco Tech

Students interested in pursuing a meaningful career as a phlebotomist can begin their journey by enrolling in the Medical Assistant Program at Pennco Tech, with campuses in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Since 1973, we’ve provided career-focused educational opportunities that are centered around the skills and knowledge required for students to pursue a variety of paths. To learn more about our innovative programs, contact us today.