Avian Bird Flu Shines Spotlight on Phlebotomy Issues

by Kelly Richardson
kelly.richardson@careertrainingdirectory.com
Career Training Directory Columnist

According to top researchers, the H5N1 avian bird flu virus has an excellent chance of making the transition from birds to humans. When that happens, Phlebotomy professionals will be a primary point of care for those afflicted. Earn your phlebotomy training and you could be helping save lives every day.

The particular strain of influenza that is responsible for the avian bird flu pandemic has proven especially tricky for doctors and scientists. Vaccines are being tested, but the results are largely inconclusive at this stage of the game. Phlebotomy professionals will play a crucial role in identification and treatment of the disease. From drawing blood to test for cultures to administering the life-giving vaccine to children, phlebotomy professionals complete rigorous training methods to prepare them for these crucial responsibilities.

Phlebotomy Training: Pandemic Preparations

• Stocking the Cart. Phlebotomy organizations are urging professionals to stock their phlebotomy carts with emergency supplies.
• Skills Required. Maximum dexterity, steady hands and visual acuity is required to take samples from patients swiftly and painlessly.

The National Phlebotomy Association reports that “the phlebotomist has a direct effect on the overall quality of medical care.” And the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics emphasizes the outstanding employment outlook for professionals in the field over the next decade.

The Phlebotomy Career Profile

• Basic Training. The field of phlebotomy requires training equal to an associate’s degree or technical certification to begin working.
• Growing Market. Employment of phlebotomy professionals is expected to grow faster than average for all occupations through the year 2014.
• Variety of Settings. Perhaps the major benefit of phlebotomy training is that you can choose a variety of medical environments in which to work.

If you have always wanted a medical career without the cost and stress of a medical degree, consider getting phlebotomy training. This is truly a career with a social conscience.

Sources

As fears grow, scientists race to battle bird flu, MSNBC.com
Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians, U.S. Department of Labor Statistics
National Association of Phlebotomists
National Phlebotomy Organization

About the Author

Kelly Richardson covers the local education and technology scenes in major cities across the country. His articles appear in educational journals, periodicals, and e-zines.