One of America?s faster-growing job sectors is phlebotomy. Phlebotomy schools offer students a quick and inexpensive segue to the medical industry, and thousands are taking advantage.

With both the opportunity to save lives and the prospect of graduating debt-free, it?s little wonder that many young people choose to begin their medical careers as phlebotomists.

While phlebotomy training takes much less time than medical school, both institutions cover some of the same material. Phlebotomists are expected to have a sound understanding of health terminology, safe practices, and interpersonal skills. Classes are short, but often intense, preparing students for the challenging but rewarding life that awaits them in the medical field.

1. Students in phlebotomy classes learn about cleanliness and disease prevention. Donor safety is a chief concern.
2. Because phlebotomy is a discipline of medicine, students learn a great deal of human anatomy. The veins and arteries of the circulatory system are studied extensively.
3. When they reach the actual field, phlebotomists will draw, handle and story body fluids every day. Schools train students on how to handle potentially hazardous fluids safely.
4. Although phlebotomists are trained to draw many fluids, blood is by far the most common. Students learn how to expertly find veins and arteries with a needle stick.
5. Because many of the samples taken by phlebotomists are used for medical testing, preparatory classes emphasize neat record keeping.
6. Phlebotomists deal every day with hundreds of donors and patients. At school, they will learn about customer service techniques and ways to ensure donors have a positive experience.