Grounded in Care Diaries: My Journey Through Phlebotomy Training Before Nursing School

By The Flight Attendant Nextdoor

When I (The Flight Attendant Nextdoor) made the decision to return to school for nursing, I knew I wanted to build a healthcare foundation first with the time I had available as I prefer not to show up to my first nursing lecture hoping to keep up; I want to walk in already understanding key clinical skills, comfortable around needles, and confident about patient interaction. 

That’s what led me to phlebotomy training.

For many, the traditional path to nursing school is simple: get accepted, attend orientation, and learn venipuncture once the program begins. But for me, choosing the nontraditional route of phlebotomy training before nursing school has all the requirements built in for my clinicals (CPR training, health checks etc) . It’s not just a stepping stone—it’s a skill-building experience that’s preparing me mentally, emotionally, and technically for what’s ahead.

In this post, I’m sharing:

• What my phlebotomy training program looks like (chapter by chapter)
• Why learning venipuncture early is the right move for me
• The incredible free money perks that support my journey
• How this route aligns with my nursing school goals and flight attendant schedule
• A realistic look at my up coming study schedule and time management plan (I’m setting up now)
• Tips for anyone considering phlebotomy as a pathway into healthcare

Whether you’re thinking about nursing school or simply exploring new healthcare career paths, I hope this helps you make an informed decision.

Why I Chose Phlebotomy Training Before Nursing School

Phlebotomy may seem like a small part of healthcare; but in reality, it’s a powerful entry point and pre analysis for patients. It teaches you how to collect blood samples, communicate with patients, and handle biological specimens accurately and safely. These are skills that translate directly into nursing and other medical professions.

For me, this route makes sense for a few key reasons:

• Phlebotomy is hands-on. It’s one of the fastest ways to get comfortable with venipuncture; something every nurse will need to master.
• It builds confidence. Learning how to draw blood and interact with patients early on helps reduce the anxiety many students feel during nursing clinicals. In addition, learning hospital software is one less hurdle to jump while balancing the care of sick patients.
• It opens up job opportunities. Once I’m certified, I’ll be able to work as a phlebotomist while attending nursing school part-time. In hospitals directly or via agency. There are also traveling phlebotomists.
• It’s financially supported. My phlebotomy training is grant-funded, which means many of my essentials are covered.
• It’s aligned with my flight attendant schedule. As someone who will be flying about 8–10 days per month, I needed something flexible and strategic.

Inside My Phlebotomy Training Program

My phlebotomy course is structured into five core chapters, each designed to build both knowledge and practical skill. I’m currently about halfway through, and each module has deepened my understanding of how vital phlebotomy is in patient care.

Let’s break it down:

Chapter 1: The Phlebotomist

This is where everything begins. We learned what it truly means to be a phlebotomist—not just someone who draws blood, but someone who plays a crucial role in the diagnostic process.

Key lessons:

• Understanding the responsibilities and scope of a phlebotomist’s role
• Patient interaction and bedside manner
• Infection control and safety precautions
• Legal and ethical responsibilities
• Professionalism in healthcare environments

This chapter reminded me of my early days in flight attendant training; safety, customer service, and situational awareness are key in both fields.

Chapter 2: Blood Cells and Vessels

Before you can draw blood, you need to understand what’s beneath the surface. This chapter took us into the human circulatory system, focusing on veins, arteries, and the cellular components of blood.

Key lessons:

• Anatomy and physiology of veins and arteries
• Differences between veins, arteries, and capillaries
• Red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets
• How blood composition impacts testing
• Common venipuncture sites and their characteristics

This foundation is essential. The more you understand the body, the more precise and confident you become with your technique. I’ll take this knowledge into nursing school as we go over the anatomy of the cardiovascular system.

Chapter 3: Methods of Specimen Collection

Now we get into technique. This chapter focuses on how we collect blood and other specimens accurately.

Key lessons:

• Venipuncture vs. capillary puncture
• Order of draw
• Tube colors and their additives
• Labeling and handling specimens
• Infection prevention during collection

I’ve found this chapter to be both challenging and empowering. Mastering technique means respecting both the science and the human being in front of you.

Chapter 4: Specimen Collection and Transport

What happens after the blood is drawn matters just as much as the draw itself. In this chapter, we learned about the transportation and processing of specimens.

Key lessons:

• Proper labeling and identification
• Chain of custody procedures
• Maintaining specimen integrity during transport
• Lab communication and documentation
• Avoiding pre-analytical errors

This is where accuracy meets accountability. One mislabeled tube can impact patient outcomes, so attention to detail is everything.

Chapter 5: Procedures for Special Phlebotomy

Finally, we cover specialized procedures, which can include working with pediatric or geriatric patients, handling difficult draws, or performing specific tests.

Key lessons:

• Special collections (e.g., blood cultures, timed draws)
• Working with challenging veins or patients with special needs
• Pediatric and neonatal draws
• Advanced safety procedures
• Working in high-pressure environments (like hospitals or emergency settings)

This chapter has been exciting to me because it mirrors the adaptability I’ve already built as a flight attendant; every passenger is different, and so is every draw.

CPR Certification: A Familiar Skill in a New Setting

One thing that made this program feel instantly aligned with my current roll is CPR certification.

As flight attendants, we train annually for in-flight emergencies; including CPR and AED use. In phlebotomy, CPR is also required because healthcare environments can be unpredictable, and patient safety always comes first.

• My official CPR certification will be valid for 2 years
• It’s included in the program cost
• I’ll be certified before my externship begins

Having this skill already under my belt makes the learning curves smooth, and it’s reassuring to know it’s also a cornerstone of nursing.

Externship & Certification Goals

After completing the coursework, I’ll enter my externship, where I’ll need to complete:

• 100 blood draws
• Work in a supervised clinical environment
• Meet competency requirements for certification

Once I hit those milestones, I can sit for my certification exam through NHA (National Healthcareer Association) or ASCP (American Society for Clinical Pathology)(both highly respected credentials in healthcare.

And after certification? I plan to:

• Add IV certification (a valuable skill for licensed practical nursing)
• Consider CPR instructor certification
• Begin working as a phlebotomist prior to starting nursing school

My Phlebotomy Grant Perks: Support That Makes a Difference

One of the biggest blessings on this journey has been my grant program, which provides tangible support while I complete training and prepare for employment.

Here’s what’s included:

• Transportation support – getting to class and clinical sites without added stress.
• Education/employment attire and supplies – scrubs, lab coats, and essentials covered.
• Technology support – access to a Chromebook or computer to complete coursework.
• Certification and licensing fees – professional exams, clearances, and fees are funded.
• Employment clearances – background checks, drug testing, and health requirements.

This support system has allowed me to focus on learning; not using resources on how to afford the process.

Nursing School: What Comes Next

I’m thrilled to share that I’ve already:

•  Passed my TEAS test on the first try
• Received my acceptance letter for part-time nursing school
• Begun preparing for background checks, immunizations, and health screenings, (I want to have most wrapped up in the next 2 weeks)

Once nursing school begins, my schedule will look like this:

 Class & Clinical Schedule

• Class time: 5.5 hours per day, 2 times per week = 11 hrs weekly
• Clinical time: 7 hours per day, 4 times per month = 28 hrs monthly

 My Study Plan: Balancing Flight Attendant Life & Nursing School

Juggling nursing school with flying part-time is going to require intention and structure but that’s nothing new as schedules change each month. As someone who’s balanced unpredictable flight schedules for years, I’ve built a realistic study plan that respects my energy and goals.

Recommended study ratio: 2 hours of study for every 1 hour of class or clinical time.

 

Activity	Weekly Hours	Monthly Hours
Class	11 hrs	44 hrs
Clinical	7 hrs/week avg	28 hrs
Study Time (Class)	22 hrs	—
Study Time (Clinical)	14 hrs	56 hrs
Total Weekly Study Time	36 hrs	—

I plan to:

• Dedicate 1 standing day off each week to organize my studies
• Study 2–4 hours per day, six days a week
• Fly part-time (8–10 days per month)
• Take one day off per week to rest and reset

This structure allows me to build consistency while giving myself grace. Some material will click quickly. Other topics may require extra focus. But either way, I’m setting myself up to succeed.

Why Phlebotomy or similar May Make Sense as a Pre-Nursing Step

If you’re considering nursing school or just curious about healthcare; phlebotomy is one of the smartest entry points. Here’s why:

• Short training period (often 6–12 weeks)
• Low cost or grant opportunities
• High employability—phlebotomists are in demand in hospitals, labs, clinics, and mobile services
• Skill development that translates directly into nursing: venipuncture, specimen handling, patient care, and charting
• Confidence booster before your first nursing clinical will be all set to engage effectively
• Flexible work that you can gain skills from, network and add grounded financial support through nursing school

Multiple nurses I’ve spoken to have said they have taken a similar (step ladder) route before starting their nursing programs. I feel more prepared for learning because it’s been a while since the last time I’ve been a test taking student because of this decision.

Tips If You’re Considering Phlebotomy Before Nursing School

If this route sounds appealing, here are a few practical tips to help you get started:

• Research local training programs — Community colleges and allied health centers often offer affordable phlebotomy courses.
• Look for grants or workforce development programs — Many states have funding available for in-demand healthcare roles.
• Consider your schedule carefully — If you work or have other responsibilities, choose a program that fits your lifestyle.
• Take CPR seriously — It’s a skill that saves lives and builds confidence.
• Be prepared for externship hours — Hands-on experience is essential for certification.
• Start brushing up on anatomy & physiology early—especially veins and arteries.
• Connect with classmates and instructors—building your network now will help when it’s time to apply for jobs or nursing school.
• Remember your “why.” This journey requires commitment, but it’s deeply rewarding.

 How This Journey Feels So Far

Halfway through my program, I can say with confidence: this was the right decision for me to reengage with my studies.

Phlebotomy has grounded me in care. It’s given me a deeper understanding of the cardiovascular system , patient interaction, and the precision required in healthcare and confidently answered one of my questions on the TEAS test as a result. It’s bridging my roll as a flight attendant with my future as an aspiring nurse; both roles centered on care, calm, and quick thinking.

The nontraditional route doesn’t make your path less valid. It makes it uniquely mine and perhaps yours too.

 Final Thoughts

If you’re standing at the crossroads of your next chapter—whether that’s healthcare, nursing, or a fresh start—know this: you don’t have to follow a single straight path.

Phlebotomy is giving me the skills, structure, and confidence to step into nursing school not as a beginner, but as someone already connected to the work.

I’m still flying, still growing, and still answering the call on my life—this time with a stethoscope and needle in hand.

This isn’t just a career pivot. It’s a purpose pivot.

Have questions about my phlebotomy training journey? Drop them in the comments or send me a message. If this helped you, share it with someone who might be considering this path, too. 

#GroundedInCare #PhlebotomyTraining #NursingSchoolPrep #FlightAttendantNextdoor #HealthcareJourney #VenipunctureSkills #NonTraditionalPath #FutureNurse #TEAS #PhlebotomyExternship

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Grounded in Care Diaries: I Took My TEAS 7 Exam — Here’s How It Went

 

by the Flight Attendant Nextdoor

If you’ve been following my journey as The Flight Attendant Nextdoor, you know I’m on a beautiful and slightly nerve-wracking pivot from aviation to healthcare. I’ve spent years flying around the world, but this season of my life is about planting new purpose driven roots, learning new skills, and stepping confidently into a second career that’s been calling my name for a lifetime.

Today, I took the TEAS 7 exam — a major stepping stone toward nursing school. This moment represents months of micro study sessions by air, quiet early mornings with prep books I check out from the library, and intentional choices that support both my health and my goals.

This post isn’t just about a test. It’s about what it looks like to balance ambition, wellness, and a nontraditional schedule; especially if, like me, you’re doing it while working in aviation. If you’re studying for the TEAS or planning your own career pivot, I hope this gives you insight, encouragement, and a few practical tips to make your journey smoother.

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What the TEAS 7 Exam Is (and Why It Matters)

For anyone new here, the TEAS 7 stands for Test of Essential Academic Skills, Version 7. It’s a standardized test used by many nursing and allied health programs in the U.S. to evaluate applicants’ academic readiness.

The test covers four main subject areas:

1. Reading Comprehension – Understanding passages, identifying key ideas and details, integrating knowledge, and drawing conclusions.

2. Math – Arithmetic, algebra, measurement, data interpretation, and geometry.

3. Science – Anatomy, physiology, chemistry, biology, and scientific reasoning.

4. English and Language Usage – Grammar, punctuation, vocabulary, and sentence structure.

Think of it as a combination of high-school core knowledge with a healthcare twist. It doesn’t just test what you know — it also measures how well you can think critically and manage your time under pressure.

For me, this test was one of the first major “official” steps on my path from the skies to scrubs.

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Why I Call This Season “Grounded in Care”

As a flight attendant, I’m used to being in constant motion; flying from one city to the next, living out of a small suitcase as needed, and adjusting to time zones as if it’s second nature. But Grounded in Care is my personal reminder that sometimes the most important journeys happen on the ground.

This chapter of my life is about being intentional. About caring for myself in ways that support new goals. About building a future where wellness, purpose, and community intersect. All of which Im really into.

So yes — even when I’m doing my thing in the air, my focus is also on what’s happening next on the ground.

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My Sky High Study Schedule 

Flying well under 80 hours a month gave me room to build structure around my studies. My galley became my mini classroom.

Between inflight service and safety checks, I’d slide in reading passages, practice math problems, or review anatomy. Passengers are naturally curious, so when they’d see my notes or books out, the questions would roll in:

• “Are you studying to become a nurse?”

• “What’s that homework?”

• “Is that the cardiovascular system?”

Those little conversations often reminded me why I’m doing this. People light up when they witness you chasing a new dream — it sparks something in them, too. And if you’re a frequent flyer, expanding your horizon, expect those moments. They make studying inflight surprisingly meaningful because encouragement is offered along the way.

My inflight study essentials included:

• A TEAS prep book

• water bottle (hydration is key!)

• Highlighters and flashcards

I didn’t study every single flight. But I made my downtime count.

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The Day Before My TEAS Exam

The day before testing, I made a conscious decision to prepare my mind, body, and space; not just cram information.

Here’s what I did (here a little, there a little):

• ✅ Specialist appointment in the morning (because real life doesn’t pause when you’re chasing goals).

• 👕 Picked up a few new scrub sets for my upcoming phlebotomy externship — nothing boosts confidence like gear that makes you feel the part.

• 🧠 Light review session, focusing on weak spots without overwhelming myself. Either i know it... or I dont.

• 💧 Hydrated intentionally throughout the day.

• 🌿 Took magnesium glycinate before bed to relax my body and help me sleep deeply.

This rhythm reminded me that test prep isn’t just mental — it’s physical too. I didn’t want to walk into my exam tired, dehydrated, or on edge.

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Test Day Morning: Calm, Hydrated & Ready

I woke up early. No rushing. No chaos.

I started the morning with some last-minute math review; not a deep dive, just enough to get my brain warm. Then I showered, got dressed, and headed out to pick up my daughter, who sweetly dropped me off at the testing center.

My breakfast was simple and nourishing:

• A smoothie made with banana, strawberry, blueberry, sea moss, and chia seeds

• A sprinkle of Brahmi on top for mental clarity

• Multi Vitamins, NAD, and resveratrol — my little brain and body boosters

No caffeine. Just hydration, nutrients, and calm energy.

My anxiety, surprisingly, was steady. I felt hydrated, rested, and ready.

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My TEAS 7 Testing Experience

The TEAS is broken down into four sections, and for me, the order went:

1. Reading Comprehension

2. Math

3. Science

4. English & Language Usage

I exhaled as the first section popped up on the screen. Reading has always been my strong suit, and that gave me a gentle confidence boost as I eased into the exam. I found myself in the zone; pulling out key details, analyzing ideas, and moving through passages with ease.

Then came Math.

Math and I have an on again off again relationship. (Its complicated).  I hoped for a heavy dose of solving for x, fractions, decimals, and percentages but what I got was a surprise geometry party.

What showed up on my Math section:

• Geometry questions about length, width, and degrees of circles

• Radius calculations

• Metric conversions

• Ratios and proportions

• Charts and scatter plots

• Mean, median, and mode

• Exponents and order of operations

• Fractions and place value

The geometry and measurement questions definitely made me cringe a bit. It wasn’t what I prepped for the most, but I pushed through. This is exactly why taking the test is so valuable: it shows you what to sharpen next time.

Science came next — and honestly, this section lit me up. I’ve always loved learning about the human body, and all those review sessions while inflight paid off. Then I closed out with English & Language Usage, which felt like a smooth landing.

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My Top Scoring Sections

When I got my results, two subjects stood out as my strongest: Reading and Science.

My top 5 scoring topics were:

1. Key ideas and details

2. Integration of knowledge and ideas

3. Using language and vocabulary to express ideas in writing

4. Scientific reasoning

5. Chemistry

I smiled when I saw that. Those were the sections (well the science) I genuinely enjoyed studying, and it showed.

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My Study Resources and What Actually Helped

A few months ago, I checked out several TEAS prep books from the library. They became my companions on layovers, morning flights, and coffee shop study dates.

My favorite study methods:

• Practice problems — to build endurance and calm test anxiety.

• Breaking down weak spots into short daily drills.

• Studying inflight during low-traffic moments instead of doom-scrolling.

• Active recall using flashcards instead of just rereading notes.

And the best part? I can finally return those heavy prep books to the library and give my tote bags a break for a few months. 

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Post-Test Reflections: More Than a Score

When I walked out of the testing center, I didn’t just feel “done.” I felt proud.

Not because I aced every question (I didn’t).
Not because I had all the answers (I didn’t).
But because I showed up for me.

I’ve learned that in any big transition, there are milestones that don’t look like glittering finish lines. They look like quiet steps; like sitting in a testing center on a weekday morning, heart calm, head clear, doing something you’ve dreamed about for years.

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What’s Next on My “Grounded in Care” Journey

This is just one checkpoint. Up next for me:

• 🩸 Phlebotomy certification exam

• 🩺 Wrapping up my phlebotomy course’s final chapter and multiple practice tests

• 🧠 Mastering the order of draw (a crucial skill for phlebotomists)

• ✨ Continuing my math review as Im aware of my specific areas of weakness to sharpen geometry and metric conversion before my nursing program begins... although I'll be taught in the program too.

I get to check this box off my list. ✅
And that’s something worth celebrating.

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If You’re Studying for the TEAS Too… Here’s What I’d Tell You

If you’re reading this because you’re on your own TEAS journey, here’s my honest advice:

1. Build your own rhythm. Your study schedule doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. If you have an unconventional lifestyle job like mine, make it work for you.

2. Fuel your body like it matters. Because it does. Clear focus starts with hydration, nutrition, and rest.

3. Don’t fear the weak spots. They’ll guide your next steps. Take the test anyway.

4. Make your why louder than your doubt. For me, my “why” is building a career rooted in care  and that’s bigger than any test.

5. Celebrate each milestone. Big or small.I came home and enjoyed my favorite ice cream.

Whether you’re a flight attendant, a mom,/grandmom a career shifter, or someone simply ready to chase a new dream; your journey is valid. And it’s absolutely doable.

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From Jetways to Journeys in Care

The skies have been my office for years. They’ve taught me discipline, adaptability, and the art of staying calm in turbulence. Those same skills are now guiding me as I prepare to step into healthcare.

Balancing study sessions with family, home,  layovers, appointments, and work flights isn’t easy. But it’s worth it.

I hope my Grounded in Care Diaries remind you that career pivots aren’t about abandoning who you are — they’re about evolving, taking massive action and expanding (into the best version of YOU). ✨

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Final Thoughts: Your Pivot Doesn’t Have to Be Perfect to Be Powerful

We often think we need the “perfect” schedule, the “perfect” test score, or the “perfect” timing to chase something new. But the truth is  showing up imperfectly but consistently is what creates momentum. Kick analysis paralysis to the curb and make moves.

I didn’t score a perfect math section. I didn’t study in the most traditional way. But I showed up with intention, and that’s enough to keep going.

So whether you’re taking your TEAS exam soon, considering a new career path, or simply standing at the edge of a big decision — know this:

You don’t have to have it all figured out to take the first step.
You just have to take it.

And if you see a flight attendant in the galley flipping through flashcards on your next flight… it might just be me. 😉