The Phlebotomist is a vital member of the clinical laboratory team, whose main function is to obtain patient's blood specimens by venipuncture and microcollection. The field of Phlebotomy has greatly expanded in the past several years, and the role of this integral member of the health care team has recently been brought into much sharper focus.
Employment
Phlebotomists draw blood from patients for testing purposes. They usually work under the supervision of medical technologists or laboratory managers. Phlebotomists are employed throughout the health care system - hospitals, neighborhood health centers, medical group practices, HMO's, public health facilities, veteran hospitals, insurance carriers and in other health care settings. The demand for Phlebotomy Technicians has increased substantially with the overall complexity of health care services and the risks of infectious disease.
Program Information
This 90 hour program prepares professionals to collect blood specimens from clients for the purpose of laboratory analysis. Students will become familiar with all aspects related to blood collection and develop comprehensive skills to perform venipunctures completely and safely.
Classroom work includes terminology, anatomy and physiology; blood collection procedures; specimen hands-on practice; and clinical training in skills and techniques to perform puncture methods. The program also includes lab exercises, live blood draws, work with a training arm and other exercises intended to prepare students to function as an entry level Phlebotomy Technician.
Detailed Course Topics
• anatomy and physiology of the circulatory system
• medical terminology and laboratory theory
• laboratory law, ethics and regulatory issues
• specimen documentation and transportation
• non-blood specimen collection
• pediatric & geriatric blood collection
• quality, competency and performance assessment
• phlebotomy theory/simulated lab
• arterial, intravenous (IV) & special collections procedures
• specimen collection, processing and handling
• laboratory operations (e.g. safety, quality control)
• cells, lab safety, anatomy of the arm, using a tourniquet
• blood collection systems, review of medical asepsis and hand washing and more...
Student Prerequisites
Students should be at least 18 years of age upon program completion. Candidates must also have a high school diploma from an accredited high school or a high school equivalency diploma (GED or HiSET), or be actively enrolled in the final term of earning this completion. Upon completion of the program, most employers will require new employees to complete a CPR for the Healthcare Provider course (BLS) and provide proof of standard immunizations and TB testing. Employers may also require a criminal background check. Students should also possess competency in basic computer office operations and literacy.
Completion and Certification Exam
Students must pass the course and complete a minimum number of veinipunctures and finger sticks in class in order to be eligible to sit for the NHA (National Healthcareer Association) Phlebotomy Technician Certification (CPT) exam. The cost of the Phlebotomy Technician Certification (CPT) exam is included with your tuition. Extra fees will apply if you are unable to take the exam with the class, as scheduled, or for any subsequent retake.
Class Expectations
This is a college-level, accelerated program. There will be extensive reading and homework to be completed outside of class. Full preparation before class and participation in each discussion, quiz, and lab exercise is required. Attendance and punctuality are graded components of class. If deemed necessary, class may occasionally be held in an online forum, such as Zoom. Therefore, online access via computer or tablet (not phone) is also a requirement.
Application and Resume
Click here to print an application, or you may pick up a copy in person at the college: 1115 N. Roberts, Room 113. Once your completed application is submitted in person or via email, you will be notified of acceptance within 3 business days. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. Seats are limited and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
Payment Information
Because this is a career training and not for college credits or a degree, the program is not eligible for Federal Financial Aid. If you are unable to pay in full when your application is accepted, you may choose to make a 10% deposit ($175) which is non-refundable and non-transferable (good only toward the class for which you are registering). This will hold your seat until the payment deadline. Tuition is due in full one week before the first day of class.
Tuition Assistance
You may qualify for Job Service funding. Contact them at 406-447-3200 or at 715 Front Street.
Need more information?
Link to U.S. Department of Labor/Bureau of Labor Statistics website
1115 North Roberts - Donaldson Campus, Room 113
Helena, Montana 59601
Monday - Friday; 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Program Manager Christy Stergar
406-447-6945
E-mail: Christy.Stergar@HelenaCollege.edu