Phlebotomy is a vital part of the healthcare industry, and choosing the right school when you’re looking to start your education is important. Here you can learn what it’s like to attend phlebotomy classes and what a career as a phlebotomist looks like. We discuss what phlebotomists do, where they work, how much they make on average, and the career opportunities available to certified phlebotomy technicians (CPTs). We hope our list will help you find one that works best for you.
Phlebotomy is the practice of drawing and collecting blood. The word phlebotomy is derived from two greek words: phlebo (vein) and tome (to make an incision). Phlebotomists are professionals trained to make incisions and draw blood, mainly for the purpose of diagnosis and diagnostics. Many phlebotomists perform other non-phlebotomy-related roles, such as nursing assistant or patient coordinator.
As a phlebotomist, you need to be trained in both anatomy and physiology, as well as in medical procedures. To be a successful phlebotomist, you need to be able to work calmly and efficiently in a fast-paced environment. You must also be able to handle blood and other bodily fluids with care. In addition, it is important to have good communication skills so that you can effectively communicate with patients and healthcare workers. Finally, it is essential to be detail-oriented in order to properly document all of your work.
Find phlebotomy classes near you
More phlebotomy classes near you in Louisiana
Check out the classes below to find a program that will help you achieve your goals. Programs vary in length, price, and curriculum. We recommend that you explore the school’s websites to narrow down a few that you are interested in. For more detailed information you can’t find on school websites, contact the schools directly.
Before you can enroll in a training program, you’ll have to meet the minimum requirements. Accredited schools in the state of Louisiana have the same basic requirements, and if you meet them, you can be working as a certified technician in a matter of weeks.
Be at least 18 years of age
Have a high school diploma or equivalent
Have a valid driver’s license or state ID
Be able to pass a criminal background check
Have up-to-date immunization records
After you complete your training program, you’ll need to take the certification test. The test is offered through different accredited organizations. You can scroll down to find a list of testing providers. Tests are provided by organizations such as the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), the American Medical Technologists (AMT), and the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP). You must submit an application to take the certification test and pay the required fee. You will need to show proof that you have completed a training program before you can schedule your test.
What to expect from phlebotomy classes
Schools that teach phlebotomy prepare their students to meet the high standards of national certification agencies. The coursework ensures that technicians are competent and qualified to perform phlebotomy procedures. A technician who completes an accredited program has been trained to properly collect blood specimens and to follow safety protocols. Classes cover everything from the procedure of collecting to dealing with patients and coworkers. Below is a list of what you will study if you enroll in classes:
Anatomy and Physiology
Medical Terminology
Handling specimens
Safety and sanitation
Legal issues
Ethics and confidentiality
Patient correspondence
The history of phlebotomy
Classes involve both hands-on training and classroom coursework. Hybrid programs are also available, which offer a combination of online and in-person instruction. You can expect to get at least 20 hours of classroom study and 20 hours of experience in a clinical setting. Although training isn’t always easy, if you are dedicated and put in the work, you will do just fine. When you are ready to take the test, your school will help you sign up and prepare for it. After you have passed, you will receive your certification and can begin working as a phlebotomist.
Where can I work as a phlebotomist in Louisiana?
Phlebotomists primarily work in hospitals and research labs, taking blood samples from patients for diagnostic testing. Others may work in scientific research labs. Many private companies also offer phlebotomy services, so there are plenty of opportunities. As of May 2021, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that 2,840 phlebotomists were working in Louisiana. The job growth rate for phlebotomists was projected to be approximately 10% from 2020 to 2030, so it’s a great time to enter this field.
Phlebotomy jobs in Louisiana
Only a few states require national certification to practice phlebotomy, and Louisiana is one of them. The state of Louisiana requires all phlebotomists to have a valid certification from organizations like the American Medical Technologists (AMT) or the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP). You can find a full list of state-approved certification bodies by visiting this link.
As mentioned above, most CPTs work in hospitals or laboratories, but you can also work in a number of inpatient and outpatient facilities. The type of facility you work in will largely depend on your specialty. For example, if you specialize in cardiology, you may work primarily in a hospital setting. If you have a sports medicine specialist, you may work primarily in an outpatient facility such as a rehabilitation center or doctor’s office.
Hospitals
Clinics
Laboratories
Doctor’s Offices
Rehabilitation Centers
Schools
Military Bases
Research Facilities
Where Phlebotomists Work
% of Jobs
Hospitals
36%
Laboratories
35%
Other ambulatory healthcare services
14%
Physician offices
8%
Outpatient care centers
1%
Phlebotomist career path
There are many opportunities to explore different career paths once you are a certified phlebotomist technician (CPT). For instance, you could continue your education and become a registered nurse (RN) or even a doctor. There are also many opportunities to work in different fields, such as research, teaching, or working in a hospital setting. No matter what path you choose, being a CPT gives you the skills and experience you need to be successful. Some titles that CPTs often transition to are:
Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT)
Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS)
Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS)
Pathologist Assistant (PA)
Research Scientist
Registered Nurse (RN)
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Phlebotomy school owner
How much does a phlebotomist get paid in Louisiana?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average salary for a phlebotomist in Louisiana is $33,210 per year. The average hourly wage is $15.97. Wages depend on n experience and where you work. The top 10% of earners made $41,170 a year, or $19.79 per hour.
Metro Area
Phlebotomists Employed
Avg. Hourly Wage
Avg. Annual Wage
Alexandria, LA
130
$ 15.30
$ 31,830
Baton Rouge, LA
470
$ 16.75
$ 34,840
Hammond, LA
60
$ 16.00
$ 33,270
Houma-Thibodaux, LA
110
$ 15.48
$ 32,200
Lafayette, LA
330
$ 15.49
$ 32,220
Lake Charles, LA
140
$ 15.04
$ 31,280
Monroe, LA
210
$ 15.65
$ 32,550
New Orleans-Metairie, LA
800
$ 16.74
$ 34,810
Shreveport-Bossier City, LA
430
$ 15.78
$ 32,820
Useful links
Check out these links for information on certification, practice tests, and more.
