Introduction to Phlebotomy - Phlebotomy definition and purpose, role of phlebotomist, legal and ethical aspects including consent, privacy, confidentiality, GDPR compliance, and documentation responsibilities
Infection Control and Safety - Standard precautions, PPE, hand hygiene, needlestick injury prevention, bloodborne pathogen awareness (HIV, Hepatitis B and C), sharps disposal procedures
Blood Collection Techniques - Venipuncture techniques, alternative collection sites (hand veins, capillary blood), blood culture collection, correct order of draw to prevent cross-contamination
Equipment and Supplies - Phlebotomy equipment review (needles, syringes, vacutainers, collection tubes), appropriate equipment selection, specimen labeling and documentation with patient identifiers
Patient Interaction and Communication - Patient preparation and explanation, addressing concerns, special considerations for pediatric, elderly, obese patients, managing difficult or anxious patients
Complications and Troubleshooting - Identifying and managing complications (hematomas, bleeding, vein collapse), handling failed attempts, post-procedure patient care
Legal, Ethical, and Documentation Issues - Obtaining informed consent, maintaining patient confidentiality, accurate record-keeping of procedures and complications
Handling and Transporting Specimens - Proper sample handling and storage, transport guidelines maintaining temperature and environmental conditions, urgent sample procedures
Standards and Guidelines Review - NHS and UK healthcare policies, best practice implementation, evidence-based techniques, regulatory compliance
