Introduction:
Venepuncture (Phlebotomy) and Cannulation are among the most commonly performed invasive procedures in the NHS. This City & Guilds Assured training course provides healthcare professionals with the essential knowledge and practical skills required to perform these procedures safely and effectively.
Suitable for both beginners and those looking to refresh their existing skills, the course combines comprehensive theory with practical training using simulation equipment. Delegates will develop confidence in vein identification, infection prevention, equipment selection, and safe procedure techniques.
Who Is This Course For?
This course is suitable for healthcare professionals who require Venepuncture (Phlebotomy) and Cannulation training, including:
- Nurses
- Midwives
- Doctors
- Health Visitors
- Phlebotomists
- Pharmacists
- Physiotherapists
- Occupational Therapists
Upon successful completion, delegates will gain the knowledge and practical foundation required to develop competency under clinical supervision within their workplace.
Objectives
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Understand practitioner requirements, accountability, and professional standards
- Recognise legal implications and documentation requirements
- Apply infection prevention principles and Aseptic Non-Touch Technique (ANTT)
- Understand the circulatory system and factors affecting vein selection
- Identify appropriate equipment for Venepuncture and Cannulation
- Prepare patients and provide safe, effective care
- Recognise and manage potential complications
- Perform Venepuncture and Cannulation procedures safely
Course Content
Legal and Professional Responsibilities
- Legal aspects of Venepuncture and Cannulation
- Practitioner requirements
- Professional competence and accountability
- Documentation and record keeping
- Consent and vicarious liability
Infection Prevention and Control
- Causes of infection
- Patient and environmental factors
- Aseptic Non-Touch Technique
- Maintaining a sterile field
- Infection prevention and management
- Specimen handling
- Visual infusion phlebitis scoring
Circulatory System and Vein Access
- Overview of the circulatory and venous systems
- Arteries and capillaries
- The skin and its role in blood sampling
- Vasoconstriction and vasodilation
- Reasons for taking blood samples
- Factors affecting site selection
- Improving venous access
- Managing anxious patients
Equipment and Practical Skills
- Selecting correct equipment
- Needle gauge systems
- Tourniquets
- Needle safety
- Bio connectors
- Dressings
- Common complications
- Extravasation prevention and management
- Venepuncture and Cannulation demonstrations
- Practical sessions and assessments
Please note: This course includes an open-book assessment and observation of practical activities.
Course Benefits
- Certificate valid for 1 year
- Face-to-face theory and practical training using simulation equipment
- Small group sizes with dedicated practical support
- Vascular Access Structured Learning Programme endorsed by NIVAS
- City & Guilds Assured Venepuncture (Phlebotomy) and Cannulation Training
