Phlebotomy, Certificate

Program Overview

The goal of the Phlebotomy Program is to train professional phlebotomists proficient in communication, leadership, human relations and employability skills. Additionally, students learn safe and efficient work practices through a combination of theory and laboratory activities. The practical activities provide the necessary cognitive and manipulative skills needed to obtain adequate and correct blood specimens by capillary or venipuncture on adults, children and neonates while maintaining the integrity of the specimen in relation to the test to be performed.

In addition to obtaining blood specimens, phlebotomists must have a clear understanding of medical terminology in order to label, sort and record specimens delivered to the laboratory. Additional duties may include centrifuging specimens and preparing aliquots of samples according to the designated protocol required by various laboratory specialties. Students in this program also receive training in emergency procedures including CPR (Heartsaver), first aid, as well as HIPAA and blood-borne pathogens' training.

Upon completion of the program, students earn a post-secondary adult vocational (PSAV) certificate making them eligible for entry-level employment as phlebotomists. Although there is no state licensure required for phlebotomists, graduates with required amounts of work experience may obtain certification from national credentialing agencies. This program is currently seeking approval from the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS).

Phlebotomy Technician Program Essential Skills

Applicants to the Phlebotomy Program should:

• Possess sufficient eyesight to observe, manipulate, and evaluate instrumentation and procedures.
• Possess sufficient hearing to communicate, manipulate and evaluate instrumentation and procedures.
• Possess sufficient physical ability to move from room to room and around patients.
• Possess sufficient English verbal and written skills to communicate effectively.
• Possess sufficient find motor coordination to safely perform laboratory techniques.
• Possess sufficient intellectual and emotional abilities to exercise independent judgment and discretion.

Allergy Advisory: The use of chemicals and latex/latex-based products may exist in program environment such as, but not limited to, classrooms and training labs, hospitals, research laboratories, and some area industries. Individuals with chemical or latex allergies should seek expert advice from their health care provider so that they may receive information to make an informed decision regarding their exposure to chemicals/latex in the field.

Application for Admission to Santa Fe College

Students interested in the Phlebotomy Program should complete the Application for Admission to SF. This requires that students arrange for official transcripts from high school as well as official transcripts from any post-secondary institution attended to be sent to the Office of Records. Unofficial transcripts may be used for initial advisement purposes only and will not be used for program admission consideration.

Application for Phlebotomy Technician Program

Students should obtain an application to the Phlebotomy Technician Program and submit it to the Program Advisor (address is on the application).

Qualifications for Admission:

• Must be 18 years old.
• Must have a high school diploma or GED.
• Satisfactory completion of PERT exam or equivalent college coursework. *(minimum PERT scores; reading-65, writing-70, math-60).

Once accepted to the program, students must:

• Submit a Medical Health Form (a satisfactory physical exam including immunizations).
• Obtain a level 2 background check and drug screen.

Length of Program: 1.5 Terms

• 1st Semester:
  • B Term: MLT 0047 & MLT0047L (at SF Perry Center Lab)
• 2nd Semester:
  • C Term: MLT 0048 (at Clinical site)

Applicants who receive a PSAV Certificate in Phlebotomy will successfully complete a total of 165 clock hours with coursework in the following courses: