Course Overview

This one-day Introduction to Phlebotomy course provides a practical and comprehensive introduction to venepuncture for individuals working in Primary Care settings.

The programme is designed to support participants in developing the foundational knowledge and skills required to safely perform blood collection procedures. Teaching combines theoretical principles with practical simulation training, allowing participants to practise techniques and gain confidence in a supportive learning environment.

The course is suitable for healthcare professionals as well as members of the practice team who are developing new clinical responsibilities. Participants will receive a competency workbook to support supervised practice following the course.

Training is delivered by experienced clinicians, including a Senior Phlebotomist with over 20 years of experience alongside senior nursing faculty.

Who Should Attend

This course is suitable for:

Healthcare Assistants
Practice Nurses
Nurse Associates
Paramedics
Pharmacists
Practice staff developing clinical roles such as care navigators or reception staff

No prior phlebotomy experience is required.

What This Course Covers

Phlebotomy Principles

Understanding venepuncture procedures
Anatomy relevant to venepuncture
Vein identification techniques

Safe Blood Collection

Correct needle and equipment use
Blood collection procedures
Sample labelling and handling

Infection Prevention and Safety

Infection control principles
Sharps safety
Managing exposure incidents

Patient Communication and Consent

Explaining procedures to patients
Obtaining consent
Supporting patient comfort and reassurance

Managing Complications

Recognising and managing common phlebotomy complications
Dealing with difficult blood draws

Practical Simulation Training

Hands-on practice using phlebotomy training equipment
Guided technique development

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

Describe the principles of phlebotomy practice
Identify suitable veins for venepuncture
Perform safe blood collection techniques using appropriate equipment
Apply infection control and safety procedures
Communicate effectively with patients during procedures
Recognise and manage common complications
Understand the importance of supervised practice following training

Post-Course Development

Participants will receive a competency workbook to support supervised practice within their workplace following the course.

A period of supervised clinical practice is recommended to consolidate skills and achieve competency in venepuncture.

Course Format

Duration: One full day

Delivery: Face-to-face practical training

Format includes:

Structured teaching
Demonstration of techniques
Practical simulation training
Competency workbook

Certification

Certificate of attendance provided for CPD and revalidation purposes.