Phlebotomy

Certificate of Recognition

This two-part program prepares students to become confident phlebotomists. A one-quarter course of study, this program consists of classroom instruction including anatomy and physiology of the circulatory system, specimen collection, specimen processing and handling, laboratory operations, HIV/blood borne pathogen training, and laboratory related HIPAA education, in combination with clinical site training. Phlebotomists primarily collect blood for analysis, a necessary component in the diagnosis and quality care of patients. Upon successful completion of this 11 credit certificate program, students will be eligible to sit for the American Society of Clinical Pathologists Phlebotomy Technician Certification examination.

Prerequisites for entry include:

1. At least 18 years of age.
2. High School diploma or GED certificate.
3. Ability to read and write in English.
4. Ability to lift a minimum of 50 pounds.
5. Ability to reach overhead.
6. Ability to bend over or crouch.
7. Ability to stand or sit for extended periods of time.
8. Ability to distinguish colors.
9. Proof of vaccination and TB testing as outlined in phlebotomy program application packet.
10. Proof of purchase of malpractice insurance through OC cashier.
11. Washington Criminal History Background Inquiry Check. (A student who cannot participate in patient care delivery in clinical settings based on a positive Background Inquiry Check may not be placed successfully in an externship site and will be unable to complete the program.)
12. Proof of sufficient medical insurance coverage.
13. Agree to interview/additional vaccinations if required by externship site.

Students must meet all the above requirements to be accepted into the Phlebotomy program. Students must earn a 2.0 or higher in both MEDA 220 and MEDA 221 to earn the certificate.

Program Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, successful students will have demonstrated the ability to apply their skills and knowledge in the following ways:

1. Use effective verbal, listening and written communication skills to interact personally and professionally in a healthcare setting.
2. Use appropriate interpersonal skills to provide excellent service to patients, clients and co-workers.
3. Promote tolerance and equal treatment of all patients and co-workers.
4. Access, evaluate and organize information successfully using a variety of resources.
5. Use technology effectively to successfully accomplish necessary tasks.
6. Prioritize and appropriately multitask in a variety of healthcare setting situations based on customer service principles and organizational values.
7. Work effectively as a healthcare team member.
8. Utilize appropriate personal protective devices and technique to operate safely in a healthcare environment.
9. Apply proper phlebotomy technique to successfully collect, handle and process a minimum of 100 blood specimens, including venipuncture and capillary punctures.
10. Demonstrate understanding of legal and ethical issues related to phlebotomy.

*See course description for prerequisite.

Source: 2009-2010 Olympic College Catalog