How to Become a Phlebotomist in Tennessee (Schools, Salary, and License Info)

Phlebotomists are responsible for drawing blood and collecting samples from the patients.

Samples are further used for diagnostic tests and blood transfusion.

Phlebotomists can work in hospitals, medical laboratories, doctor’s offices, and public community health centers.

If you choose phlebotomy as your career, your first step is to complete an appropriate training program focused on classroom education and clinical training.

In Tennessee, there are no specific requirements for phlebotomists.

Technically, you can start working just after you finish high school.

However, employers prefer to hire phlebotomists with the right credentials and proper skills.

According to the website for job search, Monster.com, there are plenty of job opportunities for phlebotomists in Tennessee.

There are positions for full-time and part-time phlebotomists, as well as experienced and entry-level phlebotomists.

Cities such as Nashville, Memphis, Columbia, Clarksville, Dandridge, Machester, Knoxville have plenty of great options for future phlebotomists.

What Does Phlebotomist Do?

The primary responsibility of a phlebotomist is drawing blood samples.

However, phlebotomy is much more than just drawing blood.

Phlebotomists follow specific procedures for sample collection and processing promptly.

They need to follow strict safety procedures and ensure that both patient and they are safe during the process.

Furthermore, phlebotomists need to keep the laboratory clean and well-stocked.

Therefore, ordering laboratory supplies and cataloging them is part of their work.

Phlebotomists need to understand basic medical terminology, to be able to understand physician’s instructions.

Other job duties of a phlebotomist include data collection, data entry, basic clerical skills.

Luckily, modern training programs will prepare you for all tasks and duties you will have to complete during the day.

In Tennessee, just like in the majority of other states, there are no legal requirements for phlebotomists to hold national certification.

On the other hand, passing the certification exam will ensure you better job opportunities.

Career Outlook for Phlebotomists in Tennessee

There is a growing need for all medical professions, including phlebotomists across the country.

Phlebotomists can work in various healthcare facilities:

• Hospitals (all departments)
• Blood banks
• Urgent care clinics
• Public health centers
• Physician’s offices
• Nursing homes
• Home health agencies
• Mobile clinics

Skilled, trained, friendly, and compassionate phlebotomists with certification in phlebotomy are highly appreciated in all medical facilities.

Phlebotomists need to be able to handle different situations and different types of people.

How to Get Certified in Tennessee?

To get certified in Tennessee, you will have to complete a phlebotomy training program at an accredited institution.

It is useful to find out as much as you can about the schools, so you can decide easier.

You should choose the program with as much practical training as possible.

Generally, schools have similar curriculums, but there can be slight differences.

Some courses are tailored to prepare you for the certification exam.

Also, you can find courses that have classroom instructions available in the online form, which is convenient for working students.

Check what the prerequisites for each program are, to be able to prepare on time.

Typically, for all programs, you have to be 18 years or older.

Next, you need to submit your high school or GED transcripts.

Additionally, some schools require students to hold CPR certification and to show proof that they are current with their immunizations.

Usually, courses consist of two or three parts.

The first part includes classroom instruction, the second part are laboratory exercises, and the third part includes practical training in the clinical setting.

During the course, you will have to complete at least 100 blood draws on patients.

National Certification in Tennessee

You can get certified through some of the national agencies recognized in Tennessee.

One of the benefits of having a national certification is the ability to legally work as a phlebotomist in almost all US states.

In Tennessee, you can get certified through one of the following organizations:

• American Medical Technologists
• American Society of Clinical Pathologists
• National Center for Competency Testing
• National Health Career Association

The certification needs to be renewed every two years.

Renewing certification promptly is highly important to avoid potential issues with the employer.

If you let your certification lapse for several years, you might need to get a refresher course.

Schools

Phlebotomy certificate training is available at several schools in Tennessee.

For example, you can choose Matrix Medical Training Centers, LLC in Cleveland, if you want to start working as soon as possible.

The training program at EduMed Partners lasts around 3.5 months and includes theory instructions and clinical rotations.

Tennessee College of Applied Technology offers training for future phlebotomists at multiple locations.

The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga offers phlebotomy training that consists of 90 hours of classroom instructions and 40 hours of practical training.

Check the table for more information.

Salary

On average, a phlebotomist in Tennessee can make around $32.154 per year.

The salary depends on several factors including location, certification, experience, education, etc.

Annual Salary Range:

Regional Salary in Tennessee

Phlebotomy Classes by State