Training to become a phlebotomist in Iowa can prove to be a fulfilling career. As a student in training, topics learned include an understanding of anatomy and physiology. Such topics provide and understanding of how the body system works and where to locate the veins necessary for an effective venipuncture procedure.
Topics also include the necessary safety measures required in order to prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses by way of cross contamination. The knowledge and skills learned at this level are necessary in the allied-health community and throughout the healthcare system.
The skills learned at this level is the first step in becoming a skilled phlebotomist who can utilize his or her knowledge towards obtaining a career in the field of phlebotomy.
Although didactic and practical learning skills lead to a credential that will legally allow a phlebotomist to practice his or her skills in this state, an additional credential is recommended. This credential is a certification from one of the national certification agencies. Although this state does not require such certification, the recipient of such credential increases his or her chances of obtaining and securing employment as a phlebotomy technician. As such, most employers in this state employ phlebotomy candidates who have taken the extra step toward obtaining such qualification. This certification can be obtained from the National Healthcareer Association.
Training Schools in Iowa
Throughout this state, there are many educational institutions and schools of higher learning that provide phlebotomy students with the opportunity to enter the growing field of phlebotomy technicians. These schools offer various programs that may include a three to six week certificate, a two to six month diploma or a 24 month associate degree. Each school varies with the length of its study.
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Des Moines area Community College and Kirkwood Community College are two institutions that may help a potential phlebotomist to realize his or her goal.
Des Moines Area Community College is one of the institutions of higher learning that offer courses in phlebotomy. Upon completion of this program, students will receive a degree in the field of phlebotomy. This school is located in the city of Ankeny; it has a seat in Polk County.
Kirkwood Community College is another college in this state that has a program for potential phlebotomists. This is a one semester program. Students in this program will complete classroom coursework entailing 60 hours of lecture. The remaining 80 hours will consist of practical learning. This college is located in Cedar Rapids. It is found in the county of Linn.
Working as a Phlebotomist in Iowa
The life of a phlebotomist in this state can be one of comfort as the average salary is $27,000. This salary, however, is not the reality for all phlebotomists. The salary of any given professional in this field is commensurate with his or her level of education and experience. For an entry-level position, the following salaries may be appropriate.
| City | Average Salary |
| Ames | $21,000 |
| Cedar Rapids | $24,000 |
| Council Bluffs | $23,000 |
| Davenport | $27,000 |
| Des Moines | $24,000 |
| Dubuque | $26,000 |
| Iowa City | $24,000 |
| Sioux City | $26,000 |
| Waterloo | $23,000 |
| West Des Moines | $24,000 |
Employment Opportunities for Phlebotomists in the state of Iowa
A career as a phlebotomist seems very promising. As such, there are many job opportunities available. Additionally, there is always room to advance on the corporate ladder. In this field, jobs can easily be found in nursing homes, hospitals, and blood banks. Job opportunities can also be found in public and private medical practices.
The qualification for phlebotomists to obtain employment remains the same for most institutions. Blood banks, however, are the only institutions that request a donor phlebotomy technician certification as an additional requirement. If you are interested in working at such facility, St Luke’s Blood Bank and Mississippi Valley Regional are two facilities that may interest you. Whether you choose to practice your skills in a blood bank or another facility, this job will prove to be fulfilling as you meet people of various backgrounds in addition to reaching and possibly exceeding your financial goals.
