The first day comprises of:
A background to phlebotomy
Health and safety in phlebotomy
Infection control
Informed consent
Anatomy and physiology of the arm
Site selection – good and bad veins
Complications that can arise when taking blood
Needle stick Injuries; what they are and what to do
How and where to correctly apply a tourniquet
What is expected of a phlebotomist
The importance of correct patient identification and informed consent
All participants are given a multiple choice quiz to complete – and have to achieve a minimum standard to continue. However, as much support will be given as possible to ensure that you achieve this minimum standard
A summary of the most common blood tests undertaken
A guide to common types of equipment used in venepuncture and how to use them
The technique of venepuncture
The process of taking blood
The correct use of safer sharps
The day includes:
A period of role-play using pads attached to the antecubital fossa area
A period of one to one supervised practice using an artificial arm to improve technique
A 20-minute clinical assessment of each candidate
Upon completion of the course the participants are be required to undertake a programme of home study.