A Phlebotomy Career in North Dakota
Although well-known as the person who collects blood from patients for diagnostic testing, the responsibilities of a phlebotomist entail much more than drawing blood. Phlebotomists need to have a wealth of knowledge about laboratory testing, specimen integrity and collection methods in order to ensure the specimens sent to the laboratory are optimal for testing. For example, many tests need to be performed while fasting at certain times of the day or for a specified number of hours prior to a procedure. Phlebotomists will also need to deal with specimens other than blood, such as urine, stool and sputum, instructing patients on proper collection methods and ensuring the samples are correctly labeled upon receipt.
Excellent communication skills are essential for phlebotomists, who are often the only laboratory professionals to interact with patients. Many patients will present with severe anxiety about the blood draw procedure or the testing they are having done, and it will be up to the phlebotomist to help keep them calm and comfortable during the procedure. In addition, the phlebotomist will need to know how to respond to emergencies, as patients can sometimes lose consciousness during the procedure.
Working in the field requires a great deal of physical stamina, as phlebotomists often work long hours, performing procedures with very few breaks. Hospital phlebotomists, in particular, will commonly need to move from ward to ward, pushing a cart full of supplies, while responding to stat calls. Working early morning hours is very common, as is working off-shifts, weekends and holidays.
Licensing for Phlebotomy in North Dakota
North Dakota has no requirement for licensure for practicing phlebotomists. Phlebotomists will need to possess a high school diploma or equivalent and have completed the appropriate training. Once employed, a phlebotomist will always work under a licensed medical doctor, often a board-certified pathologist.
North Dakota Training for Phlebotomists
Although it is still possible to learn phlebotomy skills on the job, most phlebotomists today acquire their skills through a certified training program. Some possible programs in North Dakota include:
- Bismarck State College in Bismarck offers a phlebotomy training course. Students will gain proficiency in all areas of the field.
- Turtle Mountain Community College in Belcourt offers a Phlebotomy Technician program. The program relies on theory and practice to prepare students for work as phlebotomists.
Certification for Career Advancement
Attaining additional certifications is not required by the state of North Dakota. However, most employers prefer to hire those who have achieved accreditation. One popular organization through which phlebotomists seek credentialing is the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP). Their Phlebotomy Technician designation can be earned by taking and passing an examination at the current cost of $135.
Career Outlook and Salary Expectations
The phlebotomy profession in North Dakota is on a growth trajectory, with projections indicating a robust 23.8 percent increase in jobs between 2018 and 2028. This growth is expected to generate an average of 60 new job openings each year.
In terms of compensation, phlebotomists in North Dakota earn an average annual wage of $36,570. Entry-level positions may offer wages at the lower end of the spectrum, with 10% of workers earning $31,580 or less. However, there is potential for salary growth with experience and skill development, as evidenced by the top 10% of phlebotomists in the state earning $59,900 or more. These figures are competitive with the national average, where phlebotomists earn an average of $38,530 annually, with the lowest 10% earning $30,250 or less and the highest 10% earning $51,610 or more.
Comparison of National and North Dakota Salaries for Phlebotomists
| United States | North Dakota | |
|---|---|---|
| Average Salary | $38,530 | $36,570 |
| 10% Earn | $30,250 or less | $31,580 or less |
| 90% Earn | $51,610 or more | $59,900 or more |
Salaries and Percentiles by Region in North Dakota
| Region | 10% | 25% | Median (50%) | 75% | 90% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fargo, ND-MN | $29,970 | $31,650 | $36,490 | $45,550 | $60,610 |
| Grand Forks, ND-MN | $31,280 | $31,320 | $36,060 | $45,010 | $58,710 |
| West North Dakota nonmetropolitan area | $31,200 | $31,830 | $35,560 | $37,530 | $40,560 |
Phlebotomists Employment Trends in North Dakota
In North Dakota, the field of phlebotomy is experiencing a notable increase in employment opportunities. As of 2020, there were 480 individuals employed as phlebotomists. By the year 2030, the number of phlebotomists is expected to rise to 600, representing a 25% growth rate over the decade. This growth rate is significantly higher than the national average, reflecting a strong demand for phlebotomy services in the state. Additionally, there are projected to be 70 annual job openings for phlebotomists in North Dakota from 2020 to 2030, which includes new positions and replacements for vacated ones.
For a broader perspective, the national employment trends show that in 2022, there were 139,400 phlebotomists employed in the United States. This number is projected to increase to 150,200 by 2032, indicating an 8% growth rate, which is categorized as faster than average. The projected annual job openings nationwide are estimated to be 19,500 from 2022 to 2032.
Comparison of National and North Dakota Employment Data Trends
| Location | Employment (Year) | Projected Employment (Year) | Projected Growth | Projected Annual Job Openings (Year Range) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | 480 (2020) | 600 (2030) | 25% | 70 (2020-2030) |
| United States | 139,400 (2022) | 150,200 (2032) | 8% (Faster than average) | 19,500 (2022-2032) |
Sources of Data:
- North Dakota Data Source: The employment projections for North Dakota are sourced from Projections Central’s 2020-2030 long-term projections.
- United States Data Source: The national data for the United States is sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2022-2032 employment projections.
What’s It Like to Work as a Phlebotomist in North Dakota?
Working as a phlebotomist in North Dakota involves a significant amount of interaction with patients and a strong emphasis on precision and care. Phlebotomists in the state are responsible for drawing blood for tests, transfusions, donations, or research, and they must do so in a way that maintains patient comfort and trust. The job requires attention to detail, adherence to safety protocols, and the ability to work with a variety of medical technologies and software. Phlebotomists in North Dakota are expected to have good service orientation and must be adept at communicating with both patients and medical staff. They must also be prepared to wear protective equipment daily and be capable of handling the stress that comes with a job that is extremely important for patient care and medical diagnostics.