Phlebotomy Question

[mike1w]

Anyone here a phlebotomist or know one? I would like to know about the outlook, pay, opportunities available. Is it worth the time and expense of a class. I live in New Jersey. Is this job good? or at least worthwhile. My ultimate goal is to become a lab technician, testing for diseases, etc. Would phlebotomy be a good step in that direction?

[Bookwirm]

Yes, phlebotomy would be an excellent step. There are a TON of job openings where I'm at for phlebotomist. You can make some really good money after you get some experience under your belt. The money is good starting off but you'll most likely get stuck with shifts no one else wants. And job outlook is good, phlebs will always be necessary in hospitals, etc.... I don't know about these but here at the community college you can get certified for aroudn 300 bucks. They do require you have immunizations etc before attending though.... Good luck!!!

[Toonces2]

I dont know if it's different from state to state but at my local hosptal they are hiring lab technicians/phlebotomists with no expirience and training them on the job. Look into it, you may not need to take a class! Good luck!

[suebeehoney]

All I know about phlebotomists is that they don't like to see me coming to their chair. Bad veins. I'm what they call a "tough stick".

I do hear they make a good wage, and if you get on with a well-established hospital system, you should make out well with benefits also.

Best of luck...and I'll do my best not to appear in your chair....

[frugal-fannie]

I think it wouldn't hurt. at least you will get familiar with the type of tests and how they handle the blood before it gets back to the lab. I am also a bad stick,small veins. When i signed up to be a marrow donor the Red Cross recommended I not give blood in future.

[nessarowdy]

With my experience working in a clinical lab setting, phlebotomists didn't make a ton of money, although depending on what shift they worked it varied. It is DEFINITELY a good step if you want to go to school for your med tech degree, though. You will have the leg up going into it knowing this portion already. Good luck!

[nessarowdy]

Oh, and depending on where you live, there is sometimes a demand for traveling phlebotimists in your area for those that are homebound, etc. GOOD MONEY in this! Maybe if there isn't a company in your area that provides this service, you should look at starting your own company! FUN FUN!