Newport News Celebrates First Phlebotomy Graduates

On December 7th, 2015, the Peninsula campus launched their first phlebotomy course. A six week course fast paced, with a load of information. Everyone was excited. The phlebotomy students endured the rigorous course, persevered, and finally completed the main objective, which was to pass their certification. When test time came, everyone was nervous and anxious. They closed their eyes while the computer tallied their scores, and upon opening their eyes to view their scores, everyone was filled with delight, as they all had passed. They rejoiced as if they had won the Super Bowl! It may not have been the Super Bowl but this was a memorable time that made them all feel like winners. They can all proudly say, “I am a Certified Phlebotomist Technician”. Here at CPEN, we are all proud of their accomplishment.

You might be asking,

So what does a Phlebotomy graduate do?

Few people probably know the term phlebotomist, but it’s the health care professional who draws blood and ensures the proper amount is taken and that all blood is properly labeled and stored. Whether you have been a patient or a blood donor, you have seen a phlebotomist. Anyone who chooses this field has to be comfortable with blood, needles, databases, test tubes and blood vials. You will draw blood, verify the patient’s or blood donor’s identity, label the blood and enter patient information into a database. You’ll assemble and maintain equipment as well to prevent infections or other complications. Phlebotomists also tend to reassure nervous patients who don’t like needles, and some of them will explain what they are doing for patients who are interested.

Phlebotomy technicians are becoming very high in demand, and that opportunity is increasingly steadily. This is partly because of locations (such as hospitals which are open 24 hours) require three shifts of phlebotomists on staff. That means that if you are flexible about the hours you work, you will probably find even more opportunity in this field.

Start your Career in Phlebotomy today!