This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level required for this unit

Essential knowledge

The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively do the task outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit manage the task and manage contingencies in the context of the identified work role

This includes knowledge of

Basic anatomy and physiology of the circulatory system and skin relevant to intravenous cannulation for blood collection

Basic first aid relevant to intravenous cannulation for blood collection

Basic medical terminology used in a pathology laboratory

Clinical and general waste disposal procedures

Relevant infection control policy and procedures

Relevant organisation policies and procedures

Specimen transport requirements

Essential skills

It is critical that the candidate demonstrate the ability to effectively do the task outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit manage the task and manage contingencies in the context of the identified work role

This includes the ability to

Apply knowledge of clinical risks and complications of intravenous cannulation for blood collection

Ask questions to obtain specific client and clinical information

Communicate effectively with clients and with a range of healthcare professionals

Comply with organisation policies and procedures including OHS and infection control

Demonstrate application of correct precollection testing

Demonstrate correct and safe techniques for intravenous cannulation for blood collection

Demonstrate knowledge of boundaries of responsibilities and ability to refer problems to Supervisor Pathologist Scientist or other appropriate health professional

Demonstrate knowledge of use and characteristics of various types of cannulation devices

Follow documentation procedures

Follow emergency response procedures for client adverse reactions

Follow procedures to maintain sample integrity

Follow safe working practices

Follow workplace instructions

Handle label and transport sample correctly

Provide clear explanation of intended procedure and obtain consent

Select and use appropriate collection equipment

Use numeracy skills ranging from the ability to complete basic arithmetic calculations weighing and measuring requirements and recording data

Use oral communication skills and language competence required to fulfil job role in a safe manner and as specified by the organisation including skills in

asking questions

providing clear information

listening to and understanding workplace instructions

clarifying workplace instructions when necessary

Use problem solving skills required including ability to use available resources and apply solutions to a wide range of nonroutine and complex problems

Use reading and writing skills required to fulfil job roles in a safe manner and as specified by the organisation at a level of skill that includes reading and interpreting requests for pathology specimens completing appropriate clinical and other documentation and comprehension of complex and relevant policies and procedures

Use time management strategies to set priorities

Work with others and display empathy with client and relatives

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the Performance Criteria Required Skills and Knowledge the Range Statement and the Assessment Guidelines for this Training Package

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate this competency unit

The individual being assessed must provide evidence of specified essential knowledge as well as skills

Observation of workplace performance is essential for assessment of this unit

Consistency of performance should be demonstrated over the required range of situations relevant to the workplace

Where for reasons of safety space or access to equipment and resources assessment takes place away from the workplace the assessment environment should represent workplace conditions as closely as possible

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Access to appropriate workplace where assessment can take place

Simulation of realistic workplace setting may be used for initial training and assessment

Artificial arm for initial training and initial assessment

Phlebotomy and intravenous cannulation equipment required for blood collection

Relevant personal protective equipment

Relevant waste disposal equipment

Relevant organisation policy guidelines procedures and protocols

Method of assessment may include

Observation in the work place if possible

Written assignmentsprojects or questioning should be used to assess knowledge

Case study and scenario as a basis for discussion of issues and strategies to contribute to best practice

Clinical skills involving direct client care are to be assessed initially in a simulated clinical setting laboratory If successful a second assessment is to be conducted during workplace application under direct supervision

Access and equity considerations

All workers in the health industry should be aware of access and equity issues in relation to their own area of work

All workers should develop their ability to work in a culturally diverse environment

In recognition of particular health issues facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities workers should be aware of cultural historical and current issues impacting on health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

Assessors and trainers must take into account relevant access and equity issues in particular relating to factors impacting on health of Aboriginal andor Torres Strait Islander clients and communities

Related units

This unit should be assessed in conjunction with the following related unit

HLTPATC Perform blood collection for specialised testing

HLTPAT411C Perform blood collection for specialised testing

Pathology requests may:

Organisation policy and procedures may relate to:

Pre-collection criteria may relate to:

Intravenous cannulation equipment and disposables may include:

Intravenous cannulation insertion sites may include:

Personal protective equipment may include:

Appropriate health professionals may include:

Infection control procedures may include:

Complications may include