Healthcare Settings and the Role of Phlebotomy Technicians

Certified healthcare workers, such as phlebotomy technicians, EKG technicians, and patient care technicians, are trained to perform specific tasks.
These tasks include drawing blood, performing simple tests, and measuring vital signs.
The information gathered is used by healthcare providers to care for patients.
Requirements: High school diploma, job training, and certification.

LPNs and LVNs administer medications and give treatments.
They are licensed professionals but perform fewer tasks than registered nurses.
Requirements: One to two years of education and passing a national licensure exam.
Licensure is legally required to practice a medical profession in a state.

RNs coordinate, manage, and provide skilled nursing care in hospitals, long-term care facilities, or clinics.
Responsibilities include administering special treatments and medications as prescribed by a physician.
In hospitals, RNs assign tasks and supervise daily patient care provided by nursing assistants or patient care technicians.
Requirements: Graduation from a two to four year nursing program, a diploma or college degree, and passing a national licensure examination. Additional academic degrees or education in specialty areas may be held.

Hospitals and healthcare facilities employ various therapists to meet patient needs.
Examples include speech-language pathologists, physical therapists, and respiratory therapists.
Each has different education and clinical experience requirements.
Physical therapists: Doctoral degrees.
Speech-language pathologists: Master's degrees.
Respiratory therapists: Associate's or bachelor's degree.
All must meet state licensure requirements.

Registered dietitians assess patients' nutritional status and create diets to meet special needs.
They may also supervise food preparation and educate people about nutrition.
Requirements: Bachelor's degrees and possibly graduate degrees.
Most states require licensure or certification.

The pharmacy department maintains medication supplies and ensures patients receive correct medications.