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.
Earnings Potential for Nevada Phlebotomists
As of June, 2020, the average Nevada phlebotomist makes close to $36,000 a year, according to Salary.com. This is a little bit higher than the nationwide average for the phlebotomy profession. The top 10 percent of those working in Nevada make more than $45,000 annually. People just starting their phlebotomy careers can expect to make a few thousand dollars below the statewide average.
Employment Outlook for Phlebotomists
In terms of job growth, phlebotomy ranks as one of America’s hottest fields of employment. The nation is predicted to increase its number of phlebotomist positions by close to 25 percent in the ten-year period that began in 2018. This translates into more than 29,000 new jobs. Very few industries can match this level of rising employment.