Phlebotomy with EKG Technician

This course prepares professionals to collect blood and other specimens from clients for the purpose of laboratory analysis. During this course students will become familiar with all aspects related to blood collection and develop comprehensive skills to perform venipuncture methods correctly and safely. Students will review the anatomy and physiology of the heart. Explore the technology used and learn how to interpret a rhythm strip, following this by discovering the details of a myocardial infarction.

This online program is taught by Condensed Curriculum International, an educational partner working with the University of Arkansas.

Course Outcomes

At the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Explain the steps in selected specimen collection procedures performed by the phlebotomy technician
• Explain the safety procedures in the healthcare setting and specifically in performing specimen collection procedures
• Identify specific supplies and equipment used in selected specimen collection procedures
• Explain precautions and guidelines when collecting specimens in special populations such as pediatrics and geriatrics
• Define quality of care and explain the impact on patient medical care when quality and safety are compromised in phlebotomy procedures
• Describe the anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, and medical terminology associated with phlebotomy
• Describe the requirements of the successful phlebotomy career including desired character traits, training and education, roles and responsibilities
• Explain how phlebotomists communicate with others in the healthcare setting verbally, nonverbally, within the health record, and using computer systems
• Identify common legal issues, ethical issues, and regulatory issues commonly impacting the phlebotomist
• Apply the basic electrophysiologic principles of cardiac conduction to the anatomy and physiology of the body
• Identify proper placement of leads to ensure an accurate and consistent EKG reading
• Evaluate various EKG rhythm strips following established normal criteria for each of the wave forms and intervals
• Analyze a variety of EKG rhythm strips, identifying rate, rhythm and intervals
• Analyze a variety of EKG rhythm strips for common dysrhythmias
• Apply an understanding of the technical aspects of the EKG machine to the correct use of the machine and interpretation of artifacts
• Describe the functions, associated terminology, types, and rhythm strips of pacemakers
• Describe diagnostic electrocardiography in terms of goals, types, procedures, indications, and contraindications
• Explain how to interpret a 12-lead EKG strip
• Explain myocardial infarction in terms of physiology, symptoms, and EKG interpretation
• Describe common cardiac medications

Certification Opportunities

After completing this program, learners will have the option to take leading national/industry-recognized certification exams for entry-level employment in thisfast-growing field.

National Healthcareer Association (NHA) Phlebotomy Technician Certification (CPT)

National Healthcareer Association (NHA) Certified EKG Technician (CET)

Phlebotomy technicians are not legally required to hold a certification to become employed in Arkansas, and EKG Technicians are not regulated in the state of Arkansas. Licensing requirements for Phlebotomy Technicians and EKG Technicians vary state by state. If you are located outside of Arkansas, please consult with your state’s medical professions regulating agency.

Always check with your state's regulatory agency or board for the most current and specific information

Clinical Externship / Hands-on Training / Practicum

Although not a requirement, once participants complete the program, they have the ability to participate in a volunteer clinical externship/ hands-on training/ practicum with an organization in their area so as to practice the skills necessary to perform the job requirements of a professional in this field. Participants will also be assisted with completing a resume and/or other requirements necessary to work in this field.

Note: Additional documentation including health records, immunizations, drug-screening, criminal background checks, etc. may be required by the externship facility.