Phlebotomy Technician

Course Code: PLAB-1060

$550                       330 hours                   33.00 CEUs

M/T/W/TH/F        11/30/09 - 1/29/10      8am-5pm         L. Jackson

There is a need for trained phlebotomists here in the Rio Grande Valley.  Texas State Technical College, in conjunction with, Valley Baptist Health Systems Hospital can provide students this training.  This phlebotomy course gives students skill development in the performance of a variety of blood collection methods using proper techniques and universal precautions.  As recommended by NCCLS, topics include vacuum collection devices, syringes, capillary skin puncture, blood culture, and specimen collection on adults and pediatrics.  Emphasis on injection prevention, proper patient identification, labeling of specimens, and qualify specimen handling and processing will be given.  Instruction will also include professionalism, ethics, medical terminology, related anatomy, physiology, and utilization of laboratory equipment.  Successful completion of the course will prepare students to challenge the ASCP National Registry Exam.

The course includes 330 hours scheduled for 8 1/2 to 9 weeks long.  Lecture will be taught at TSTC Monday through Friday from 8am - 5pm for 3 weeks, and clinical will be held Monday through Friday from 8am - 5pm at Valley Baptist Health Systems Hospital in the Pathology Laboratory on the second floor.  (Some variation in hours may occur due to clinical location, weekend internship, or off-shift internship.)  Attendance to all classes and clinical assignments are mandatory.  Only in extreme circumstances will absences be excused, and written documentation will be required.

Sign Up: Call the Continuing Education Department at 1-800-852-8784 ext. 4615 to be put on the mailing list for the next available class.  Interviews will be scheduled, and only students selected for the class will be notified by TSTC via mail.  TSTC does not receive explanation from VBHS as to why students are not selected for the program.  Once selected, students need to register for this course, and details as to scheduling your physical examination will be given.

Fee: (to be paid in full at time of registration) includes tuition, student's liability insurance, accident & sickness, and needlestick insurance.  Neither TSTC nor Valley Baptist Health System Hospital will be held responsible for such injuries or treatment for exposure.  Student will be responsible for purchasing book.  NO REFUNDS will be made to phlebotomy students after the third class meeting. Students are responsible for physical examination and shots fee. (Minimum 20 students)

Pre-requisites:

• Complete scheduled interview
• High school diploma/GED
• Dress Code: khaki or white pants; pastel polo shirt for men; pastel shirt or blouse for women (Ponytail/hair below collar not allowed for men.)
• Physical examination
• Pass Drug screen, Tuberculosis test & be current with Hepatitis vaccine series

Placement: Valley Baptist Health System Hospital, itself, will be in need of qualified phlebotomists at the end of the course.  Other jobs exist in doctor's offices, other hospitals, and health clinics.  Starting salaries depend on the place of employment, as well as student test performance.

Note: Self-motivation and good human relation skills are essential to become successful in this program and in this career.  Because of the kind of work required, students should also have good eyesight, and must be able to speak English.