2-Day Phlebotomy Course: April 26th & 27 2025

Dear Students,

Welcome to the 2-Day Phlebotomy Course! We are excited to have you with us on this journey to mastering the essential skills and knowledge needed to perform phlebotomy with confidence and competence.

Over the next two days, you will be introduced to the world of blood collection and gain practical, hands-on experience that is critical to your success in this field. From understanding anatomy and infection control to learning the proper techniques for venepuncture and capillary sampling, our goal is to equip you with the tools necessary to excel in this important healthcare role.

Throughout the course, we encourage you to actively participate, ask questions, and make the most of this learning opportunity. We are here to support you every step of the way, and we look forward to seeing you grow in both your theoretical knowledge and practical abilities.

By the end of this course, you will have a solid foundation in phlebotomy and the confidence to apply what you’ve learned in real-world settings. We’re excited to be part of your educational journey, and we can’t wait to see all that you will accomplish!

Let’s make these two days productive and enjoyable. We wish you the best of luck as you begin this exciting new chapter in your healthcare career!

Warm regards,

Phlebotomy Course Instructor

Who should take this course?

Aspiring Phlebotomists

• Individuals pursuing a career in phlebotomy who want to gain foundational skills for blood collection and handling procedures.

2. Healthcare Professionals Expanding Skills

• Nurses, medical assistants, laboratory technicians, and other healthcare workers who wish to expand their scope of practice by learning phlebotomy techniques to improve patient care and support medical teams.

3. Students in Health-Related Fields

• Medical and nursing students who need to acquire practical phlebotomy skills as part of their academic training or clinical placement requirements.

4. People Changing Careers

• Individuals looking to transition into healthcare from other fields and seeking to add phlebotomy as a new skill for entry-level roles in medical offices, hospitals, blood banks, and diagnostic laboratories.

5. Medical Office Administrators

• Office staff working in medical clinics or hospitals who want to understand phlebotomy basics for administrative or patient-facing roles, especially those assisting with sample collection or preparing patients for blood draws.

6. Those Seeking Certification or Accreditation

• Candidates who plan to sit for national or regional phlebotomy certification exams (such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology [ASCP] or National Phlebotomy Association [NPA] exams) and wish to gain practical, hands-on experience prior to testing.

Employment Opportunities

The 2-Day Phlebotomy Course is suitable for individuals entering or working in a variety of healthcare and medical industries where blood collection and laboratory testing are essential parts of patient care and diagnostics. Below are some key industries where phlebotomy skills are highly applicable:

1. Healthcare and Hospitals

• Clinical Laboratories: Phlebotomists play a critical role in medical laboratories by collecting blood samples for diagnostic testing.
• Hospitals: Blood collection is an integral part of patient care, whether it’s for routine tests, surgeries, emergency care, or blood transfusions.
• Emergency Medical Services (EMS): Phlebotomists and other healthcare providers working in ambulances and urgent care settings need blood collection skills for on-site diagnostics.

2. Diagnostic Laboratories

• Private or Public Labs: Blood collection is a core service for diagnostic testing in clinical laboratories, where blood samples are analysed for disease, infection, and medical conditions.
• Specialized Testing Centers: Phlebotomists may be employed at labs specializing in areas such as genetics, infectious diseases, or oncology, where blood tests are essential for patient management.

3. Blood Banks and Donation Centers

• Blood Banks: Phlebotomists collect blood from donors, ensuring proper blood typing and storage for transfusions.
• Plasma Donation Centers: Specialized phlebotomists collect plasma from donors for therapeutic use or research purposes.

4. General Practitioner (GP) Surgeries  and Medical Clinics

• Primary Care Clinics: Doctor and nurse practitioners rely on phlebotomists to perform blood draws for routine screenings, lab tests, and patient monitoring.
• Specialty Clinics: Phlebotomy is also required in specialties such as cardiology, endocrinology, and oncology, where blood tests are part of patient diagnosis and ongoing care.

5. Research and Pharmaceutical Industry

• Clinical Research Trials: In clinical trials, phlebotomists may be needed to collect blood samples from participants for testing the efficacy of new medications or treatments.
• Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Companies: Phlebotomists may work in labs associated with drug development or research, particularly when blood sampling is part of ongoing trials or experiments.

6. Public Health and Government Agencies

• Public Health Institutions: Phlebotomists play a role in public health initiatives like blood donation campaigns, health screenings, or monitoring epidemics.
• Government-Run Clinics or Health Departments: Blood collection is often required in governmental health facilities for vaccination programs, disease surveillance, and laboratory testing.

7. Urgent Care and Walk-in Clinics

• Urgent Care Centers: Phlebotomists are often needed in urgent care settings for rapid blood tests related to injuries, infections, or other conditions requiring immediate care.
• Walk-In Clinics: Many urgent care and walk-in clinics offer basic laboratory tests, requiring skilled phlebotomists for sample collection.

8. Veterinary Clinics

• Animal Hospitals: While phlebotomy is commonly associated with humans, veterinary clinics may require blood draws from animals for diagnostic testing, especially in specialized veterinary practices.

9. Forensic and Coroner’s Offices

• Forensic Laboratories: Blood collection and testing are often involved in forensic investigations. Phlebotomists may work in morgues or crime labs to collect blood from deceased individuals for toxicology testing.

Other Industries & Settings

• Health Insurance Companies: Some insurance companies may require phlebotomists for health screenings as part of insurance applications or for wellness programs.
• Mobile Phlebotomy Services: Phlebotomists may work independently or with service providers offering mobile blood collection for patients who cannot easily visit healthcare facilities.
• Home Healthcare: Phlebotomists may visit homebound patients to collect blood samples for laboratory testing.

Prerequisites

This course is suitable for beginners with no prior phlebotomy experience, although basic healthcare knowledge or familiarity with medical terminology may be helpful. No formal prerequisites are required, though a general interest in healthcare is encouraged.

Entry Requirements

• There are no academic entry requirements for the course. However you are required to have a laptop/desktop/tablet or smartphone and a good internet connection to complete the online quiz.

Assessment Method

In this phlebotomy course learners will be assessed through observation, during the practical training you will be observed by the tutor/independent supervisor. Upon successful demonstration of blood sampling, blood draw and successfully passing the online quiz you will be awarded a CPD-accredited certificate

Summary

This phlebotomy course is suitable for individuals interested in entering the healthcare, medical, or laboratory fields, with specific relevance in industries that require blood collection for diagnostics, treatment, research, or donation. Whether you’re interested in working in a hospital, laboratory, blood bank, or even a mobile healthcare service, phlebotomy is a valuable and in-demand skill in a wide range of medical and clinical environments.

Day 1: Introduction, Theory & Infection Control

Day 2: Practical Training, Errors & Troubleshooting

Learning Outcomes Summary

1. Understand Phlebotomy Basics: Gain a fundamental understanding of phlebotomy and the role of a phlebotomist.
2. Anatomy and Physiology: Recognize veins and anatomical structures relevant to blood collection.
3. Infection Control: Learn infection prevention protocols, including proper use of PPE, hand hygiene, and techniques for preventing cross-contamination.
4. Blood Collection Techniques: Learn and practice safe blood collection methods, including venepuncture, capillary, and arterial draws.
5. Error Management: Identify common phlebotomy errors (e.g., hematomas, incorrect tubes, and difficult veins) and strategies to correct them.
6. Patient Care: Develop communication skills to ensure patient comfort, address anxiety, and obtain consent.
7. Troubleshooting: Learn how to manage complications, such as fainting or missed attempts, and ensure safety during blood collection.

Day 1: Introduction, Theory & Infection Control

1. Understand the Role of a Phlebotomist
   • Define phlebotomy and the phlebotomist’s responsibilities in healthcare settings.
   • Recognize the importance of blood collection in diagnostic medicine and patient care.

1. Identify Relevant Anatomy and Physiology

1. • Identify veins and anatomical landmarks commonly used for venepuncture.
   • Understand the circulatory system and how it relates to phlebotomy procedures.

1. Recognize Different Types of Blood Collection

1. • Understand when and how to perform venepuncture, capillary sampling, and arterial blood draws.
   • Learn the differences between these blood collection methods and when each is appropriate.

1. Follow Infection Control Procedures

1. • Understand the principles of infection control in phlebotomy.
   • Apply appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, masks, and gowns.
   • Learn proper hand hygiene techniques and how to prevent cross-contamination during blood collection.

1. Use Phlebotomy Equipment Safely

1. • Identify the various tools used in phlebotomy (needles, syringes, collection tubes, tourniquets, etc.).
   • Demonstrate proper handling, usage, and disposal of phlebotomy equipment to minimize risk and ensure safety.

1. Master the Process of Patient Interaction and Consent

1. • Communicate effectively with patients to obtain informed consent before performing blood draws.
   • Recognize and address common patient concerns, including anxiety or fear related to blood collection.
   • Learn best practices for maintaining patient comfort and dignity throughout the process.

Day 2: Practical Skills, Error Management & Troubleshooting

1. Prepare for Blood Collection
   • Prepare both the patient and the environment for blood collection, ensuring all necessary supplies are ready.
   • Understand and implement proper patient identification and labelling protocols to avoid errors.

1. Perform Venepuncture Safely and Effectively

1. • Demonstrate the proper venepuncture technique, including correct needle insertion, angle, and handling of blood samples.
   • Identify common challenges, such as difficult veins, and how to handle them appropriately.

1. Perform Capillary and Arterial Blood Collection

1. • Learn the appropriate techniques for collecting blood via capillary (fingerstick or heel stick) and arterial draws.
   • Understand when each method is used and the specific challenges involved in these types of blood collection.

1. Identify and Correct Errors in Phlebotomy

1. • Recognize common phlebotomy errors (e.g., hematomas, wrong tube, missed veins, and improper labelling).
   • Learn strategies to troubleshoot and minimize mistakes during blood collection.
   • Understand the importance of avoiding contamination or cross-contamination of samples.

1. Troubleshoot and Manage Complications During Collection

1. • Identify and respond to complications such as fainting, excessive bleeding, or patient discomfort during the blood draw.
   • Understand what to do if a blood sample is not adequate or if the procedure is not successful.

1. Handle Blood Samples Correctly

1. • Learn proper labelling, storage, and transportation of blood samples to ensure their integrity and prevent errors.
   • Understand the importance of timely processing and the potential impact on test results.

1. Develop Competence in Safe Practice

1. • Apply safe and ethical practices in phlebotomy, including patient care, safety protocols, and professional conduct.
   • Demonstrate proficiency in all steps of blood collection, from preparation to post-procedural care.

Course Learning Objectives

1. Venepuncture Skills:
   • Demonstrate the correct venepuncture technique using a range of equipment, including vacutainers and butterfly needles.
   • Identify and select suitable veins for blood collection while minimising patient discomfort.

1. Infection Control and Safety:

1. • Apply proper infection control practices, including hand hygiene, PPE use, and safe disposal of sharps.
   • Explain the importance of aseptic technique and its role in preventing healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs).

1. Anatomy and Physiology:

1. • Describe the structure and function of the circulatory system, focusing on veins commonly used for venepuncture.
   • Explain factors that may affect vein accessibility and blood flow.

1. Patient Care and Communication:

1. • Obtain informed consent and explain the procedure to patients clearly and empathetically.
   • Demonstrate effective techniques for managing patient anxiety and discomfort.

1. Sample Handling and Labelling:

1. • Correctly label, store, and transport blood samples following UK standards to ensure sample integrity and traceability.
   • Identify common pre-analytical errors and their impact on diagnostic results.

1. Legal and Ethical Considerations:

1. • Outline UK legal frameworks relevant to phlebotomy, including the Health and Safety at Work Act and COSHH.
   • Maintain patient confidentiality and uphold professional conduct during all interactions.

1. Emergency Response:

1. • Recognise and respond appropriately to complications such as vasovagal reactions, haematomas, or needle stick injuries.

1. Practical Competency Assessment:

1. • Perform a supervised blood draw safely and effectively, meeting UK competency standards for phlebotomy practice.

These objectives are specific, measurable, and align with UK healthcare standards, ensuring learners acquire the necessary skills and knowledge for safe and effective practice.

Overall Course Outcomes

By the end of this 2-Day Phlebotomy Course, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate competence in performing venepuncture, capillary, and arterial blood draws.
• Adhere to strict infection control standards to prevent cross-contamination and ensure patient safety.
• Correctly handle and process blood samples to maintain their integrity for diagnostic testing.
• Communicate effectively with patients, ensuring they are informed, comfortable, and reassured throughout the procedure.
• Identify, manage, and troubleshoot common errors and complications that may arise during blood collection.
• Understand and apply the theoretical knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and blood collection techniques to real-world clinical practice.

Reading List

These readings are selected to provide students with a deeper understanding of the content covered in each module.

Day 1: Introduction, Theory & Infection Control

Module 1: Introduction to Phlebotomy

Key Topics:

• Definition and role of phlebotomy
• Importance of phlebotomy in healthcare

Reading List:

• Phlebotomy Essentials by Ruth E. McCall and Cathee M. Tankersley (Chapter 1: Introduction to Phlebotomy)
• Clinical Haematology and Fundamentals of Haemostasis by Denise M. Harmening (Chapter 1: Introduction to Haematology and Blood Collection)

Module 2: Anatomy and Physiology

Key Topics:

• Anatomy of the circulatory system
• Veins suitable for blood collection
• Understanding blood flow and its relevance in phlebotomy

Reading List:

• Human Anatomy & Physiology by Elaine N. Marieb and Katja Hoehn (Chapter 12: The Cardiovascular System)
• Phlebotomy Essentials by Ruth E. McCall and Cathee M. Tankersley (Chapter 2: Anatomy and Physiology)
• Medical Terminology for Health Professions by Ann Ehrlich and Carol L. Schroeder (Chapter 8: Cardiovascular System)

Module 3: Infection Control in Phlebotomy

Key Topics:

• Infection prevention principles in phlebotomy
• Personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Hand hygiene and sterilization techniques

Reading List:

• Infection Control and Management of Hazardous Materials for the Dental Team by Christine M. Wilkins (Chapter 5: Infection Control in Healthcare Settings)
• Phlebotomy Essentials by Ruth E. McCall and Cathee M. Tankersley (Chapter 3: Infection Control in Phlebotomy)
• Manual of Clinical Microbiology by Karen C. Carroll (Chapter 3: Infection Control and Prevention)

Module 4: Types of Blood Collection

Key Topics:

• Different blood collection methods: venepuncture, capillary, and arterial draws
• Indications and techniques for each method

Reading List:

• Phlebotomy Essentials by Ruth E. McCall and Cathee M. Tankersley (Chapter 4: Blood Collection Procedures)
• Essentials of Phlebotomy by Ruth E. McCall (Chapter 6: Types of Blood Collection)
• Laboratory Medicine: A Guide to Clinical Practice by Michael Laposata (Chapter 16: Blood Collection and Specimen Handling)

Module 5: Equipment and Safety Protocols

Key Topics:

• Phlebotomy equipment overview (needles, syringes, collection tubes)
• Safety procedures and protocols in phlebotomy

Reading List:

• Phlebotomy Essentials by Ruth E. McCall and Cathee M. Tankersley (Chapter 5: Phlebotomy Equipment and Safety)
• Laboratory Safety Guidelines by American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)
• Medical Laboratory Technology: Theory and Practice by S. K. Basu (Chapter 7: Equipment for Phlebotomy)

Module 6: Patient Interaction and Consent

Key Topics:

• Effective communication with patients
• Informed consent and patient rights

Reading List:

• Patient Care in Phlebotomy: A Guide to Safe and Effective Practices by Christine M. Heald (Chapter 7: Patient Interaction)
• Communication in Healthcare by Marjorie P. Greenberg (Chapter 4: Communication in Clinical Settings)
• Phlebotomy Essentials by Ruth E. McCall and Cathee M. Tankersley (Chapter 6: Patient Interaction)

Day 2: Practical Skills, Error Management & Troubleshooting

Module 7: Preparing for Blood Collection

Key Topics:

• Patient preparation
• Equipment setup and hygiene protocols

Reading List:

• Phlebotomy Essentials by Ruth E. McCall and Cathee M. Tankersley (Chapter 7: Preparing for Blood Collection)
• The Phlebotomist’s Pocket Guide by Donna J. Z. Rader (Chapter 2: Preparing the Patient and Work Area)
• Clinical Laboratory Science: The Basics by Mary Louise Turgeon (Chapter 8: Preparation for Blood Collection)

Module 8: Venepuncture Procedure

Key Topics:

• Proper technique for venepuncture
• Troubleshooting common challenges in venepuncture

Reading List:

• Phlebotomy Essentials by Ruth E. McCall and Cathee M. Tankersley (Chapter 8: Venepuncture Procedures)
• The Phlebotomist’s Guide to Safe and Effective Practices by Patricia S. Yancik (Chapter 5: Venepuncture Technique)
• Clinical Haematology and Fundamentals of Haemostasis by Denise M. Harmening (Chapter 5: Venepuncture Procedures)

Module 9: Handling Errors in Phlebotomy

Key Topics:

• Common errors in phlebotomy (e.g., hematomas, wrong tubes, missed veins)
• Strategies for error prevention and correction

Reading List:

• Phlebotomy Essentials by Ruth E. McCall and Cathee M. Tankersley (Chapter 9: Handling Complications and Errors)
• Essentials of Phlebotomy by Ruth E. McCall (Chapter 10: Troubleshooting in Phlebotomy)
• Laboratory Medicine: A Guide to Clinical Practice by Michael Laposata (Chapter 17: Phlebotomy Errors and Troubleshooting)

Module 10: Capillary and Arterial Blood Collection

Key Topics:

• Capillary sampling techniques (fingerstick, heel stick)
• Arterial blood collection techniques and indications

Reading List:

• Phlebotomy Essentials by Ruth E. McCall and Cathee M. Tankersley (Chapter 10: Capillary and Arterial Blood Collection)
• Manual of Clinical Microbiology by Karen C. Carroll (Chapter 13: Arterial Blood Collection and Analysis)
• The Phlebotomy Technician’s Pocket Guide by Shannon L. Ahearn (Chapter 8: Capillary and Arterial Blood Collection)

Module 11: Troubleshooting and Complications

Key Topics:

• Managing complications during blood collection (e.g., fainting, excessive bleeding)
• Post-procedural care and follow-up

Reading List:

• Phlebotomy Essentials by Ruth E. McCall and Cathee M. Tankersley (Chapter 11: Complications and Troubleshooting)
• Clinical Haematology and Fundamentals of Haemostasis by Denise M. Harmening (Chapter 14: Complications of Blood Collection)
• Fundamentals of Phlebotomy by Karen A. O’Neil (Chapter 4: Troubleshooting and Dealing with Complications)

Additional Resources

• Phlebotomy Handbook by Wall, Todd and M. J. Skelton (Comprehensive guide for practice and reference)
• Clinical Haematology and Fundamentals of Haemostasis by Denise M. Harmening (Textbook for deeper understanding of blood components and collection methods.

Guidelines for Appropriate Conduct During Online and Practical Sessions

Dear Students,

This is a reminder of the expected standards of behaviour during both online and practical sessions. Maintaining a respectful and focused environment is crucial for the benefit of all participants and for the successful delivery of our curriculum.

During Online Sessions:

1. Punctuality: Log in on time and ensure your device and internet connection are prepared prior to the session.
2. Respectful Communication: Use polite and professional language in all interactions. Disruptive or inappropriate behaviour in the chat or during discussions will not be tolerated.
3. Focus and Attention: Avoid multitasking and dedicate your full attention to the session. Cameras should remain on unless instructed otherwise, and microphones should be muted unless speaking.
4. Compliance with Instructions: Follow all guidelines provided by the instructor or facilitator promptly.

During Practical Sessions:

1. Safety and Preparedness: Arrive on time with all required materials and equipment. Adhere strictly to safety protocols and instructions provided by the facilitator.
2. Professional Behaviour: Treat peers, instructors, and the learning environment with respect. Disruptive actions or distractions will not be allowed.
3. Engagement and Focus: Actively participate in the session and remain in your assigned areas unless given permission to move.
4. Respect for the Environment: Maintain cleanliness and organization in the practical area, and ensure that all tools and equipment are used responsibly.

Professional Conduct Expectations:

TLSPH (The London School of Public Health) and CPD (Continuous Professional Development) guidelines will not tolerate inappropriate behaviour directed towards staff or other participants. We expect all students to demonstrate professionalism, respect, and courtesy at all times.

Consequences of Misconduct:

Any violation of these guidelines will result in appropriate disciplinary action, which may include removal from the session, reporting to higher authorities, or further consequences as outlined in our institutional policies.

We trust you will uphold these standards and contribute positively to our learning environment. Thank you for your cooperation.

Health and Safety Guidelines for Practical Sessions

Ensuring health and safety is our top priority during all practical sessions. Please review the following guidelines carefully to maintain a safe and productive learning environment.

1. Building Regulations:

• Emergency Exits: Familiarize yourself with the location of emergency exits and evacuation routes. In case of an emergency, follow staff instructions promptly.
• Fire Safety: Adhere to all fire safety protocols. Do not tamper with fire alarms, extinguishers, or safety equipment.
• Accessibility: Keep all walkways, corridors, and doorways clear of obstructions at all times.
• Equipment and Space Usage: Use designated work areas and handle all equipment as instructed. Report any hazards, damages, or unsafe conditions immediately to staff.

2. Venepuncture Practical Sessions:

• Hygiene and Infection Control:
  • Wash your hands thoroughly before and after the session.
  • Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as instructed, including gloves and lab coats.
  • Dispose of sharps and other waste in designated bins to prevent injuries or contamination.
• Technique and Equipment:
  • Follow proper venepuncture procedures as taught during training.
  • Handle needles, syringes, and other instruments with care. Do not recap needles.
  • Ensure all equipment is sterile and ready for use before beginning the procedure.
• Professional Conduct:
  • Be respectful and attentive while practicing on simulated models or volunteering peers (if applicable).
  • Inform the instructor immediately if you feel unwell or observe unsafe practices during the session.
• Incident Reporting:
  • Any injuries, needle-stick incidents, or equipment malfunctions must be reported immediately to the session facilitator for proper action.

Your adherence to these health and safety guidelines is crucial for maintaining a safe and conducive learning environment. Failure to comply with these regulations may result in immediate removal from the session and further review of conduct.

Thank you for your cooperation and commitment to safety.

Reporting Procedure for Unexpected Circumstances

We understand that unforeseen circumstances may occasionally impact your ability to attend sessions or complete assigned tasks. To support you during such times, the following procedure is in place to ensure timely reporting and appropriate accommodations:

Reporting Procedure:

1. Immediate Notification:
   • Inform your instructor or the relevant administrative staff as soon as possible if you are unable to attend a session or meet a deadline due to unexpected circumstances.

Use the designated email to communicate your situation before 09:00am on the day of the session. This allows staff to plan effectively as they may already be in class.

1. • ss@thelondonschoolofpublichealth.com     (student Support service)
   • vn@thelondonschoolofpublichealth.com     (Instructor)

Required Information:

1. Include your full name, student ID, course name, session details, and a brief explanation for your absence.
2. Provide Documentation for long period of absence:

1. • For circumstances such as medical emergencies, family crises, or technical issues, submit supporting documentation where applicable (e.g., medical certificate, internet outage report).
   • If documentation is unavailable immediately, provide a detailed explanation and follow up with proof when possible.

Follow-Up:

1. For extended absences or serious situations, follow up with additional details or documents as necessary.

1. Approval Process:

1. • Your case will be reviewed by the relevant faculty or administrative team. Decisions on accommodations will be communicated promptly.

Accommodation Options:

Depending on the nature of the circumstance and institutional policies, the following accommodations may be offered:

• Online Sessions:
  • Access to recorded sessions or supplemental materials to cover missed content.
  • Extended time for assignments or alternative submission deadlines.
• Practical Sessions:
  • Rescheduling of missed practical sessions if feasible.
  • Opportunities to demonstrate skills or complete tasks through alternative methods as approved by the instructor.

Important Notes:

• Misuse of this reporting procedure for non-genuine reasons may result in disciplinary action.
• Ensure timely communication to facilitate the best possible support and accommodation.

We are committed to supporting your learning and well-being. Should you encounter challenges, please do not hesitate to reach out for assistance through the appropriate channels.