Whether you’re just starting out or looking to make a change, this guide has everything you need to get started in Nebraska’s thriving phlebotomy industry. You can look through our comprehensive list of accredited phlebotomy schools in the state, as well as learn about the necessary training and certification requirements. We also give you information on what to expect during training and what it’s like working as a certified phlebotomy technician (CPT).
Phlebotomy is the process of drawing blood from a patient for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. Phlebotomists are healthcare professionals who specialize in this procedure. They are responsible for obtaining blood specimens from patients, preparing them for testing, and delivering the results.
Phlebotomists typically work in hospitals, clinics, and other medical settings. They may also work in research laboratories or pharmaceutical companies. Their duties may vary depending on the setting but revolve around obtaining blood specimens from patients, preparing samples for the lab for testing, and delivering test results to physicians or other medical personnel. In addition to their clinical duties, phlebotomists may also be involved in customer service, marketing, and other administrative tasks.
There are some great programs in Nebraska that offer national certification. We highly recommend doing some research to find which one works best with your schedule. Explore the schools’ websites below and contact them directly for any questions or concerns.
Phlebotomy tech programs are relatively easy to get into. They are a good choice for those who want to learn a valuable skill and work right away. Training for phlebotomy technicians can be completed in as little as 12 weeks. Below are the minimum requirements for enrollment.
18 years of age
Immunization records
Current state ID
H.S. diploma, GED, or equivalent
Programs typically last four to twelve months and prepare you for certification exams administered by professional organizations, such as the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP) or the National Healthcare Association (NHA). Certification is not required in all states, but it is recommended to ensure that you have the necessary skills to perform safe and effective phlebotomy procedures.
What to expect from phlebotomy classes
Phlebotomy technicians draw blood from patients for testing, donations, or transfusions. They also perform other tasks related to blood collection. Phlebotomy technicians must be able to work under pressure and handle needles properly. They must also be able to follow directions and work independently.
Anatomy
Physiology
Microbiology
Chemistry
Medical Terminology
Lab Procedures
Patient Interaction
Ethics and Legal Issues
Phlebotomy is a skilled profession that requires knowledge of human anatomy and physiology, as well as safety procedures. Phlebotomists must be able to assess a patient’s condition and determine the best way to obtain a specimen. They must also be able to communicate effectively with patients and other members of the healthcare team. Classroom learning will focus on the theory behind phlebotomy and how to correctly collect blood specimens from patients. Practical experience is gained through working in a clinical setting, where you will perform blood draws on patients of all ages. You will also learn about the different types of blood collection equipment and how to use them safely and effectively.
Where can I work as a phlebotomist in Nebraska?
Phlebotomists are an important part of the healthcare team. They play a vital role in obtaining blood specimens from patients and delivering them to laboratories for testing. They may work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, research laboratories, and pharmaceutical companies.
Most phlebotomists work in hospitals and laboratories, but they may also work in other special settings, such as research facilities and blood banks. If you choose to work at outpatient or inpatient facilities, you will spend a large part of the day working with patients. In places like research laboratories, you will probably work less with people and play a more technical role.
With experience, phlebotomists may choose to specialize in a specific area of medicine or become supervisors or managers. You could become a:
Blood bank phlebotomist
Clinical laboratory phlebotomist
Forensic science phlebotomist
Hospital phlebotomist
Mobile phlebotomist
Pharmaceutical company phlebotomist
Research facility phlebotomist
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 830 phlebotomists working in Nebraska. The job growth rate for phlebotomists in Nebraska is projected to be about 10% from 2021-2031, which is higher than the average for all occupations.
Where Phlebotomists Work
% of Jobs
Hospitals
36%
Laboratories
35%
Other ambulatory healthcare services
14%
Physician offices
8%
Outpatient care centers
1%
Phlebotomist career path
The field of phlebotomy offers many opportunities for career advancement.
There is also potential for career growth in other industries, such as pharmaceuticals or biotechnology. With the right training and experience, you could become a:
Clinical Research Coordinator
Laboratory Manager
Medical Assistant
Nurse
Physician Assistant
Sales Representative for a Medical Device Company
Scientist in Various Fields
How much does a phlebotomist get paid in Nebraska?
Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows that phlebotomists in Nebraska make an average hourly wage of $17.40, which equals $36,190 per year. The 90th percentile wages are listed at $21.40 per hour or $44,520 per year. Wages depend on experience, employer, and the setting you work in.
Metro Area
Phlebotomists Employed
Avg. Hourly Wage
Avg. Annual Wage
Lincoln, NE
190
$ 16.99
$ 35,340
Omaha-Council Bluffs, NE-IA
420
$ 18.02
$ 37,490
Sioux City, IA-NE-SD
100
$ 18.10
$ 37,650
Useful links
See the links below to find out more about becoming a certified phlebotomy technician.