How to Become a Phlebotomist in Nevada
Phlebotomists are medical technicians who supply crucial services to the healthcare industry. These services center on venipuncture, the procedure used to obtain blood samples from patients. Phlebotomists work in a variety of settings, including professional laboratories, doctor’s offices and hospitals. Without their skills and knowledge, the modern healthcare system simply couldn’t function.
The 21st century has brought a sharp rise in the level of blood testing performed from day to day. Along with this rise comes an increasing need for phlebotomists. As a result, these technicians can typically count on solid compensation for their work. In addition, experienced phlebotomists often enjoy multiple employment options.
Interested in joining this vibrant and thriving healthcare field? Use the information in this guide to get started today.
Phlebotomist Licensing, Training and Certification in Nevada
Nevada is one of the few states that require all prospective phlebotomists to go through a licensing process. The agency responsible for establishing and enforcing this policy is the Department of Health and Human Services Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health (DPBH).
The rules set forth by DPBH separate phlebotomists into two categories. People employed in independent phlebotomy laboratories must apply for a Lab Assistant license. People employed in settings like doctors’ offices must apply for an Office Lab Assistant License.
To qualify for a Nevada phlebotomist license, you must pass an approved national certification exam. Several organizations offer certifications recognized within the state, including:
- The National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT)
- American Medical Technologists (AMT)
- The National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
- The American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP)
To pass a qualifying exam, you must have a solid background in phlebotomy’s core concepts and practices. And to develop this kind of background, you must take some kind of detailed training course. The best courses combine classroom instruction with opportunities to work on your skills in a real-life setting.
Nevada Training Programs
Nevada residents have multiple options for phlebotomy training. Programs you may want to consider include:
- The Pima Medical Institute Phlebotomy Technician Program – This three-month program grounds you in all the essentials of phlebotomy. It also covers subjects such as anatomy, physiology, First Aid and CPR. In addition, the program includes an “externship” that gives you plenty of time to practice your hands-on phlebotomy skills.
- The College of Southern Nevada Phlebotomy Program – CSN maintains campuses in Las Vegas, North Las Vegas and Henderson. Its program is broken down into three parts: classroom lectures, laboratory work and practical exposure to a phlebotomist’s working environment. All told, you must complete three courses to qualify for graduation.
- The Northwest Career College Phlebotomy Technician Program – This program focuses on making phlebotomy training available to people who require scheduling flexibility. You can graduate in three months with full-time attendance. If you attend part-time, it will take you longer to complete your coursework. Northwest reports that almost 90 percent of its graduates go on to pass their national exams.
Career Outlook and Salary Expectations In Nevada
In Nevada, phlebotomists enjoy a competitive salary, with an average annual wage of $38,550 as of the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2022. This is on par with the national average for the profession. The top 10% of phlebotomists in Nevada earn more than $59,040 annually, which is significantly higher than the national top 10% earners. Entry-level phlebotomists in Nevada, represented by the lowest 10%, can expect to earn around $31,480, which is slightly above the national low-end wage.
National vs. Nevada Annual Wages for Phlebotomists
| Location | Annual Low (10%) | Annual Median (50%) | Annual High (90%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | $30,250 | $38,530 | $51,610 |
| Nevada | $31,480 | $38,550 | $59,040 |
Regional Annual Wages for Phlebotomists in Nevada
| Region | Annual Low (10%) | Annual Median (50%) | Annual High (90%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Las Vegas-Henderson-Paradise, NV | $31,380 | $38,550 | $59,040 |
| Nevada nonmetropolitan area | $31,790 | $38,100 | $50,930 |
| Reno, NV | $35,100 | $39,600 | $49,550 |
Phlebotomists Employment Trends in Nevada
In Nevada, the employment outlook for phlebotomists is exceptionally bright. The number of phlebotomists is projected to grow by 33% from 2020 to 2030, significantly faster than the national average growth rate of 8% for the same period. In 2020, there were 460 phlebotomists employed in the state, and by 2030, this number is expected to increase to 610. This growth will result in approximately 80 projected annual job openings, which includes new positions due to growth and replacements for existing roles. This data indicates a strong and expanding job market for phlebotomists in Nevada.
Employment Trends for Phlebotomists in Nevada
| Location | Employment (2020/2022) | Projected Employment (2030/2032) | Projected Growth | Projected Annual Job Openings (2020-2030/2022-2032) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nevada | 460 employees | 610 employees | 33% | 80 |
| United States | 139,400 employees | 150,200 employees | 8% (Faster than average) | 19,500 |
Source of Data:
- Nevada: Projections Central’s 2020-2030 long-term projections, which offer detailed employment projections for the state of Nevada.
- United States: The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ 2022-2032 employment projections, which provide national data on occupational employment trends and projections.
What’s It Like to Work as a Phlebotomist in Nevada?
Working as a phlebotomist in Nevada is a promising and dynamic experience, especially given the state’s significant projected job growth of 33% from 2020 to 2030. Phlebotomists in Nevada are likely to find a variety of opportunities in diverse settings such as hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, blood donation centers, and clinics, particularly in populous areas like Las Vegas and Reno. The job involves collecting blood samples from patients, which requires technical skill, attention to detail, and the ability to interact compassionately with patients. The work can be fast-paced, especially in busy medical facilities. With the state’s growth in tourism and entertainment, as well as its expanding population, the demand for healthcare services, including phlebotomy, is expected to rise. This demand may lead to competitive salaries and opportunities for professional development. Additionally, the state’s unique geography, from bustling cities to serene desert landscapes, offers a distinctive backdrop for individuals pursuing a career in this vital healthcare field.