College of DuPage
Phlebotomy/EKG
Certificate Program
The Phlebotomy certificate program educates the student with didactic, laboratory, and
clinical experience in preparation for a health career as a certified phlebotomist
Note: Please see specific program registration or admission packets for detailed information on when to begin completing health
requirements, drug tests, CPR, criminal background checks and proof of insurance submission. Timing varies depending upon either
entrance to or participation in the clinical component of a given program. Funds paid to Edward Corporate Health or to a personal health
care provider/ source, Criminal Background.com (soon to be Castle Branch) insurance companies, and funds used towards CPR
completion are not eligible for any sort of refund from College of DuPage if the required course(s) are not successfully completed.
Nancy Feulner MS Ed., BS MT (ASCP)
Program Coordinator
(630) 942-2124
Feulner@cod.edu
Date Last Revised: 8/29/2013
College of DuPage
Phlebotomy/EKG Certificate Program
Phlebotomy is defined as the procedure to withdraw blood for the purpose of evaluation, diagnosis and
treatment. Phlebotomists may also be responsible for preparing specimens for laboratory testing.
Phlebotomists are employed in a variety of patient care settings, including hospitals, clinics, laboratories,
physician offices, convenient/urgent care centers, blood donor centers, home health agencies and
insurance companies. Basic electrocardiography (EKG) provides valuable information to the cardiologist
about the electrical activity in the heart as it relates to both the conduction system of the heart and the
normal or abnormal formation of electrical impulses. The EKG tracing is used for assessing cardiac
function and diagnosing cardiac disease. Many facilities require phlebotomists to perform basic EKGs as
well as routine blood draws. The additional skill of performing EKGs allows the phlebotomist to be multiskilled, which is encouraged in the health care environment.
The phlebotomy/EKG technician works directly with patients. These professionals have the important
responsibility of collecting quality blood specimens from patients and performing a basic 12 lead EKG.
The phlebotomy/EKG technician must set high standards for themselves and be deeply committed to
quality health care delivery. As a phlebotomist, the patient will see you as the “face” of the laboratory.
The laboratory depends on the phlebotomy technician to collect quality samples/tracings from the
patient and to deliver accurate results to physicians. Accurate test results allow physicians to provide
exceptional patient care. To do this, the phlebotomy technician must create an atmosphere of trust and
confidence with patients while collecting blood specimens and performing EKGs in a skillful, safe and
reliable manner.
Phlebotomy technicians must like a challenge and a willingness to accept responsibility. They must be
detailed oriented with good organizational skills as they often work independently. They must strive for
accuracy, work well under pressure and communicate effectively as they are a vital member of the
health care team. Because the phlebotomy technician works directly with the patient, he or she must
also act as the “eyes and ears” of the doctors, nurses and laboratory professionals. The phlebotomy
technician must relay any important information during interaction with patients.
In 2012, the average phlebotomist technician earned $12-$14 per hour. The median annual salary is
about $30,000. Approximately 12.3 percent of phlebotomy positions go unfilled each year. The wage per
hour has continued to climb due to the shortage of qualified phlebotomists.
Mission Statement
The goal of the Phlebotomy program is to educate students with didactic, laboratory and clinical
experiences in preparation for a health career as a Phlebotomy technician. Upon completion, the
student will deliver compassionate patient care to all patients and will function as an integral member of
the health care team with competence and confidence.
Program Information Disclaimer
This program information packet is published for that purpose; however, the information in this packet
is not to be regarded as an irrevocable contract between the student and the program. The program
reserves the right to change, at any time, without notice, requirements, fees and other charges,
curriculum, course structure and content, and other such matters as may be within its control, not
withstanding any information set forth in the program information packet in accordance with College of
DuPage policies and procedures.
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Standard Skills in Phlebotomy
To participate in the clinical education portion of the Phlebotomy program, a student must possess
additional non-academic skills. These technical standards are consistent with the duties of the entrylevel technician in a professional position. These skills, which protect the health and well-being of
patients, may include but are not limited to the ability to:
 Move, adjust equipment and perform phlebotomy and EKG procedures.
 Position patients for procedures.
 Respond appropriately to sounds such as the patient’s voice and movements at a normal
conversational volume.
 Demonstrate visual acuity to assess the equipment (needle) and to differentiate the colors of the
blood collection tubes.
 Respond appropriately to sound and light.
 Manipulate the appropriate equipment for blood collection including computers.
 Perform for a prolonged period without breaks in a typical shift of eight hours.
 Communicate orally and in writing in the English language with patients, doctors and other
personnel clearly and effectively.
 Follow verbal and written direction in the English language.
If you are uncertain of your ability to perform these essential functions or feel you need reasonable
accommodations to perform them, please consult with Special Student Services.
Non-Discrimination Policy
The college will not discriminate in its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, religion or creed,
sex, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, sexual orientation, arrest record, military status or
unfavorable discharge from military service, citizenship status, use of lawful products while not at work,
physical or mental handicap or disability (Board Policy 15-5)
Non-discrimination applies to all areas of the college, including the following departments: Admissions,
Educational Services, Employment, Financial Aid, Placement and Recruitment. The lack of English language
skills shall not be a barrier to admission and participation in educational programs. Admissions criteria and
descriptions of educational programs are available in the college’s printed and online semester Class
Schedule: myaccess.cod.edu and college Catalog: www.cod.edu/catalog.
The following persons have been designated to handle inquiries and concerns about non-discrimination at
the college:
Student Inquiries Concerning
Non-Discrimination Statement
Dean of Student Affairs, SSC 3200
(630) 942-3224
Employee and Visitor Inquiries
Human Resources/Affirmative Action Officer
(630) 942-2460, FAX (630) 942-4027
TDD (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf) – (630) 858-9692
For American with Disabilities Act accommodations, call (630) 942-2141 (voice) or (630) 858-9692 (TDD).
NOTE: Please do not call the numbers above for information about the Phlebotomy program. Contact information
for this program is available on page 1 of this packet.
Citizenship/Visa Status
If you are not a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident of the U.S., and if you have any questions or concerns
regarding your eligibility to work/participate in the Phlebotomy/EKG program clinical assignments or your
eligibility to apply for the Phlebotomy certification examination, please contact the International Student
office, SSC 2225, (630) 942-3328, e-mail: intlstdt@cod.edu.
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College Admission
In order to register for courses students must submit a College of DuPage Admission Form online or in person in
the College of DuPage Admissions & Outreach office, SSC 2207 and pay the non-refundable $20 application fee.
This is an admission form for the College of DuPage only. Students will receive a My Access ID number after
completion of admission paperwork. The ID number is used to register for courses.
Academic Prerequisites
1. Completion of or concurrent enrollment of Health Science 1110 Biomedical Terminology with a C or higher
(proof of completion must be on file prior to registration).
2. To register for HLTHS 1110, 1122 and/or 1126 concurrently students must register in person
Course Requirements
The required courses can register only a limited number of students. The number of students registered into the
Phlebotomy and EKG courses is determined by the current availability of clinical sites. Currently we offer several
sections with 18 students in each section for fall and spring semesters. Summer semester is available with
limited seating due to the shortened session. Students will be assigned a clinical site that offers adequate
supervision/mentoring in an appropriate learning environment. HLTHS 1124 Phlebotomy Clinical is a permit only
course.
The Phlebotomy certificate program is an intensive curriculum with classes in Basic Phlebotomy and Basic EKG
the first semester and a clinical assignment for Phlebotomy the second semester. The clinical experience is
designed to meet the needs of the students and the clinical affiliation. Clinical placement is the decision of the
program coordinator.
Prerequisite
Health Science 1110
Biomedical Terminology
4 credit hours
1st Semester
Health Science 1122
Health Science 1126
Basic Phlebotomy
Basic EKG
4 credit hours
2 credit hours
Students must receive a C or higher in Health Science 1110, Health Science 1122 and Health Science 1126 to
continue with the clinical component.
2nd Semester
Health Science 1124
Phlebotomy Clinical
2 credit hours
Students must be able to commit a minimum of three days per week (Monday - Friday) or twenty hours per
week to the phlebotomy clinical assignment. Evening hours are not recommended as many labs do not have
staff available to mentor students during the evenings.
Total credits for certificate
12 credit hours
Upon completion of the Phlebotomy program requirements students are eligible to sit for the American Society
of Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Phlebotomy Exam. Upon successful completion of this exam, the student becomes
credentialed as a Certified Phlebotomy Technician (PBT). This certification is recognized throughout the United
States, with the exception of California; California has its own certifying exam. Students can also petition to
receive a certificate from the college upon completion of the required courses.
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Clinical Requirements must be completed before registering for HLTHS 1124
1. Medical Malpractice Insurance is required and is included in the tuition of HLTHS 1124.
o Students must be registered and listed on the instructor’s course roster to be covered by this
malpractice insurance.
2. Health Requirements include a medical history, physical, and proof of immunity for rubella, rubeola,
varicella, mumps and Hepatitis B. If not immune, immunizations are required. Also required is the flu
immunization, diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (Tdap) vaccination, a two-step TB test and a drug screen.
3. CPR Certification is required before registering for HLTHS 1124
4. Criminal Background Checks are required before beginning a clinical assignment. If a student is found guilty
of a felony, clinical facilities may not allow a clinical assignment.
5. Students are responsible for their own medical care and health insurance.
6. Transportation: Students are responsible for providing their own transportation to and from the clinical site.
Clinical Sites available (Subject to change)
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Alexian Brothers Medical Center
Bolingbrook Hospital
Central DuPage Hospital (CDH)
CDH Charlestowne Convenient Care
CDH Danada Convenient Care
CDH River North Convenient Care
CDH Stratford Convenient Care
Edward Hospital
Elmhurst Memorial Hospital
Glen Oaks Medical Center
Good Samaritan Hospital
Hinsdale Hospital
La Grange Memorial Hospital
Provena Mercy Medical Center
Quest Diagnostics
Rush Copley Hospital
St. Alexius Medical Center
Elk Grove Village
Bolingbrook
Winfield
St. Charles
Wheaton
Naperville
Bloomingdale
Naperville
Elmhurst
Glendale Heights
Downers Grove
Hinsdale
La Grange
Aurora
Various locations
Aurora
Hoffman Estates
Phlebotomy Program Advising Sessions available on an individual basis. For more information, contact
Nancy Feulner M.S. Ed., BS MT (ASCP), (630) 942-2124, Feulner@cod.edu
Health Insurance
Students enrolled in at least 6 credit hours of classes may purchase student health insurance through University Health
Plans or Integrity Insurance and Financial. Please visit http://www.cod.edu/student_life/student_services/
access_accommodations/index.aspx for additional details.
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College of DuPage
Health Science Programs
POLICY FOR PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT IN CLASSROOMS, AND AT LABORATORY/CLINICAL SITES
Revised Fall 2013
Socialization of students to appropriate professional conduct is a significant component of the Health Science Programs of College of DuPage (the
“Programs”). Students in the Programs are expected and required to be reliable and competent, exercise sound judgment, act with a high degree of
personal integrity, represent themselves and College of DuPage (the “College”) in a respectful manner, and observe all the rules and regulations of the
clinical sites to which they are assigned. Students also have a responsibility to protect the welfare and safety of the patients/clients for whom services are
being provided. Students placed at clinical sites must realize the privilege of this experience, its responsibilities, and the reflection on the College of
DuPage and its numerous health programs. Any violation will be handled immediately so as to not affect C.O.D.’s use of the clinical site for future students.
In accordance with these expectations, when participating in laboratory exercises and /or assigned to clinical sites, students in the Programs must adhere
to the following Policy for Professional Conduct. This Policy is in addition to the Student Code of Conduct outlined in College catalogs and/or policy (Board
Policy 20-35).
The policy of Professional Conduct includes, but is not limited to,
1.
Providing competent and reliable services to patients/clients using sound judgment and discretion. Students are expected to:
a.
be prepared for the learning environment and actively participate in appropriate ways to ensure learning of key
components
b.
be on time
c.
refrain from excessive absenteeism
d.
remain in assigned work areas, leaving only with permission
e.
not leave patients unattended and/or release patients without prior approval from a qualified staff member (if
applicable).
2.
Demonstrating respect and courtesy to patients/clients and their families
3.
Demonstrating respect and courtesy to peers/classmates, instructors, supervisors and all other members of the health care provider
team in classrooms and at the site
4.
Cooperating with faculty, staff and peers without insubordination
5.
Providing care and/or services on a non-discriminatory basis
6.
Performing only procedures and/or services authorized by supervisor(s) in accordance with accepted professional standards.
7.
Observing the rules and regulations of classrooms, and all clinical facilities including (but not limited to):
a.
Proper use of equipment and other property
b.
Not removing property of clinical facilities
c.
Not distributing, possessing, and/or being under influence of illegal drugs or controlled substances,
d.
Not possessing and/or being under the influence of alcohol
e.
Complying with all current health requirements, drug testing and criminal background checking requirements
f.
Not possessing or using any type of weapon
g.
Comply with cell phone or other electronic device (i pod, ipad, electronic tablets, etc.) usage consistent with the policies of
the classroom/clinical site or lab.
8.
Maintaining the confidentiality of patient/client information in accordance with recognized professional and institutional rules;
without unauthorized release and/or misuse of patient/client information or institutional data
9.
Maintaining proper dress, appearance, hygiene and decorum in accordance with the standards set by the program, clinical site, and
professions
10.
Complying with the ethical and professional standards set by the profession and the Programs including (but not limited to):
a.
Never taking prescription blanks or writing prescriptions
b.
Never falsifying documents regarding student performance or the care of patients
The penalty for violating the Policy for Professional Conduct will be discipline up to and including suspension or dismissal from the Programs. Due to the
sequential design of the curriculum in most Health Science programs, any period of suspension or dismissal may result in a delay in program completion.
If the disciplinary action is suspension or dismissal from one of the Programs a form will be completed by the program coordinator and submitted to the
appropriate Associate Dean. The student may appeal that disciplinary action to the Health Sciences Professional Conduct Review Board within 10 business
days of the discipline imposed. This appeal must be in writing and submitted to the appropriate Associate Dean in the program area (HSC 1220).
The student will not be permitted to participate in the clinical/lab portion of the Programs during the appeal process. However, the student may continue
with on campus courses until a final decision is rendered from the appeal process. The appeal will result in a hearing before the Health Science
Professional Conduct Review Board, comprised of faculty from other COD health science programs within 5 business days of the date the appeal is filed
with the Associate Dean. Both the student and faculty involved in the disciplinary action may make an oral presentation to the Board in addition to written
comments. There is no further appeal; the decision of the Board is final. If the decision to dismiss or suspend a student from a Program is upheld, no
refund of tuition or fees or equipment or books will be provided. When a student is dismissed from a health program for professional misconduct, they
may never again apply to the same or any other health programs at College of DuPage.
All health programs require completion of current health requirements and drug testing as a condition of program participation. Drug testing (performed
at the student’s expense) will precede clinical experience in all cases, and will be required prior to admission in some programs. Positive results on a drug
screen or misrepresentation regarding drug use will lead to immediate dismissal from, or non-admittance to the particular program(s). When a student is
dismissed from a program for a positive drug screen, he/she may reapply to the same program or to any other College of DuPage health programs after
one year has elapsed.
Criminal background checks are performed at the student’s expense, and are required for many programs prior to admission. Positive results will be
handled by individual program faculty, as per program policies.
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