PBT (ASCP) - Phlebotomy Technician

The Phlebotomy Technician certification is a professional credential for healthcare workers who specialize in drawing blood for tests, transfusions, research, or blood donations. This certification is offered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) and demonstrates proficiency in phlebotomy techniques, knowledge of safety and ethical standards, and the ability to provide quality patient care.

The Phlebotomy Technician certification exam typically assesses a candidate's knowledge in areas such as venipuncture procedure, patient preparation, infection control, and specimen handling.

• Exam Length: Approximately 2-3 hours

• Question Format: Includes 80 multiple-choice questions. When a question is answered correctly, the next test question will have a slightly higher level of difficulty. The level of difficulty continues to increase until a question is answered incorrectly.

• Passing Criteria: Questions are rated on a scale of 100-999. The higher a question is rated, the harder the question will be to answer. To pass the exam, your final question must be rated on or above the 400 mark.

Exam Registration and Testing

Candidates must:

1. Meet the eligibility criteria, which usually include completing a phlebotomy training program or having a certain amount of phlebotomy work experience.

2. Register for the exam through the chosen certifying organization’s website and pay the examination fee.

3. Schedule the exam at an authorized testing center.

4. Follow testing center protocols, including presenting valid identification.

5. Complete the exam within the designated time frame.

6. Receive results, often available shortly after the exam.

Before pursuing Phlebotomy Technician certification, candidates typically complete a phlebotomy program or gain experience in the field. After certification, technicians may seek advanced credentials in laboratory science or specialized areas of healthcare.

Certification Steps

1. Education and/or Experience: Complete an accredited phlebotomy program or acquire relevant work experience.

2. Application: Apply for the certification exam through a recognized certifying organization.

3. Examination: Successfully pass the Phlebotomy Technician certification exam.

4. Certification Issuance: Obtain certification upon meeting all requirements and passing the exam.

Phlebotomy Technician certification is valid for a three-year period. The renewal process includes:

1. Completing continuing education credits in relevant areas.

2. Submitting a renewal application and fee to the certifying organization.

3. Meeting any additional requirements set by the certifying body.

Study materials for the Phlebotomy Technician exam include textbooks, practice tests, online courses, and review classes that cover essential phlebotomy skills and knowledge.

The ASCP also offers the following:

• Histotechnician (HT)

• Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA)

• Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT)

Other related certifications include:

• AMT Registered Phlebotomy Technician (RPT)

• NHA Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)

• NPA Certified Phlebotomist Technologist (CPT)

• NCCT National Certified Phlebotomy Technician (NCPT)

• ASPT Phlebotomy Technician Certificate (PTC)