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Phlebotomy Certification Examination
Phlebotomists work with other medical professionals concerning the processing of blood samples. Their work with blood samples has a direct impact on patients and their medical care. Phlebotomy certification proves to colleagues, patients, and the public that this phlebotomist has a high level of expertise and competency.
To take the phlebotomy certification examination, candidates must have completed a program that includes the teaching of venipuncture techniques and a clinical practicum. The program for venipuncture techniques must have a minimum of 160 hours of face-to-face lecture time, and the practicum portion must be at least 200 hours in length.
Those who have not completed a formal phlebotomy academic program, but are currently employed in the field, are also eligible to take the examination, provided that they meet the following criteria:
• The candidate must be currently employed and have phlebotomy duties included in their formal job description.
• The candidate must have at least one year of paid or volunteer work experience in the profession of phlebotomy. Clinical experience is not acceptable for the purposes of taking the phlebotomy certification examination.
• A letter from the candidate’s employer or supervisor verifying the length of time that he has been employed in the field of phlebotomy must be included in the candidate’s examination application material.
The National Phlebotomy Association certification examination is a two-part examination, a) a written portion, and b) a practical portion. The written portion takes approximately two hours to complete and the practical portion takes approximately one hour to complete. Candidates are given a total of three hours in which to complete the entire examination.
The applicant will need to report to the testing site at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled start time of his examination. Tests produce anxiety in many people; therefore, allow plenty of time to find the test site and to mentally prepare for the test. After arriving at the test site, take a few minutes to regain calm and focus before entering the examination room.
If rescheduling an examination is necessary, notify the National Phlebotomy Association at least 10 days in advance. Personal and medical emergencies that fall outside of the 10-day window are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Personal or medical emergencies that preclude taking the examination as scheduled require a written explanation and documentation submitted to the National Phlebotomy Association as soon as possible.
Failure on the first attempt of the phlebotomy certification examination requires written permission from the National Phlebotomy Association to retake the examination within one year of failing. Three attempts to pass the certification examination are allowed; after three failures, the applicant will be permanently ineligible for phlebotomy certification.
