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Phlebotomy Certification

Why All Nurses Should Consider Getting a Phlebotomy Certification

a phlebotomy certification

Phlebotomy is the process of drawing blood from patients. It’s not the same thing as administering an IV. Though, drawing blood may help newer nurses learn venipuncture (finding veins), which is useful for starting IVs. Only four US states require nurses and other health care workers who draw blood to hold a phlebotomy certification. This includes California, Louisiana, Nevada, and Washington. 

Yet, just because your state doesn’t require it doesn’t mean there aren’t significant pros of getting a phlebotomy certification. Many employers recommend that their nurses pass the exam and earn a certificate anyway.

So, why exactly should you get a phlebotomy certification as an RN or LPN? Keep reading for the top benefits you need to know. 

Get Certified Fast

Think you’re too busy to study for your phlebotomy certification? Think again, because getting certified as a registered nurse takes far less time than becoming a full-time phlebotomist. Most RNs and LPNs can earn their certification in as little as one or two days.

This is because, as long as you’ve completed 30 or more recorded blood drawings, you can sit for the exam without having to sit through courses. You’ll take the National Association of Phlebotomy Technician Professionals (NAPTP) exam to become officially certified. 

Increase Your Marketability

It’s no secret that nursing shortages have plagued the US market for years now. But what you may not know is that many nurses are still struggling to find a job. Experts suggest this could be because too many nurses compete for jobs in the same markets. 

So, how do you differentiate yourself from the local competition? A phlebotomy certification can help. Most RNs and LPNs only get blood-drawing training on the job, meaning your certificate will help you stand out from the stack. 

Negotiate Better Pay

69% of nurses negotiate their salary before accepting a job. Most of these nurses use their experience to fight for the pay they want. But what if you’re a new nurse?

Important certifications for nurses can help entry-level graduates negotiate better pay. Even if you do have years of experience, you can vie for a higher starting salary the more certifications you hold. And that includes a phlebotomy certification.

Build Your Confidence

Nurses learn how to draw blood in nursing school and get experience during clinical. Yet, even with all this training, many nurses don’t feel confident about drawing blood. 

If that sounds like you, a phlebotomy certification can help you build confidence. You’ll get hands-on experience with finding good veins, which can also help improve IV starting skills. 

Earn a Phlebotomy Certification With NAPTP

A phlebotomy certification can help you build confidence when drawing blood. You’ll stand out from your peers and be able to negotiate higher pay. Plus, you can get all these phlebotomy certification benefits in only a few days.

Are you ready to earn your phlebotomy certification? Register today for a NAPTP exam to get certified through the nation’s gold-standard phlebotomy certification organization.