Work performed requires a detailed knowledge of specific activities and the ability to apply solutions to a wide range of non-routine and complex problems Individuals will take responsibility for their own outputs, and provide some guidance and leadership to others to achieve outputs All tasks are conducted in accordance with relevant federal, state and territory legislation and organisation policies and procedures including WHS and infection control guidelines |
Pre-requisite units | This unit must be assessed after successful achievement of pre-requisite: HLTPAT411D Perform blood collection for specialised testing |
ELEMENT | PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
1. Prepare for blood collection | 1.1 Correctly identify pathology request and client 1.2 Identify the precise nature and requirement of the test request 1.3 Explain test procedure, including mode of administration to client and obtain consent in accordance with organisation policies and procedure 1.4 Answer client queries with clarity and using appropriate language 1.5 Identify any condition or issue which may make the collection difficult and ways which may assist to alleviate these 1.6 Take into account client conditions that may make collection difficult 1.7 Ensure client is correctly and comfortably positioned and prepared for the collection procedure 1.8 Ensure compliance with pre-test criteria 1.9 Select and prepare equipment and disposables and collection containers for the collection 1.10 Maintain standard and additional precautions 1.11 Use personal protective equipment correctly |
2. Perform collection | 2.1 Identify appropriate method of collection and follow organisation policies and procedures 2.3 Place correct equipment and blood collection tubes appropriate for the test in order of draw to ensure the blood collection accords with test requested 2.4 Select and prepare collection site according to organisation policies and procedures 2.5 Collect sample following correct procedures and using correct equipment 2.6 Transfer correct volume of blood to the selected collection tubes in the set order of draw 2.7 Invert collection tubes within timeframe required and according to organisation policies and procedures 2.8 Follow correct procedure for collection of sample 2.9 Apply pressure to collection site for the required time following withdrawal of needle 2.10 Observe and dress blood collection site, and monitor client for adverse effects 2.11 Follow infection control procedures throughout collection procedure 2.12 Follow organisation policy and procedures for safe handling of pathology specimens |
3. Respond to adverse client reactions | 3.1 Ascertain possible contra-indications to procedure, possible complicating factors and modify procedure in accordance with organisation policies and procedures 3.2 Observe client during procedure, recognise reactions and respond promptly if necessary 3.3 Seek assistance of Pathologist or Medical Scientist if required according to organisation policy and procedure |
4. Perform post-blood collection procedures | 4.1 Dispose of waste in accordance with organisation policies and procedures and taking into account opportunities to address waste minimisation, environmental responsibility and sustainable practice issues 4.2 Complete documentation 4.3 Label blood collection tubes with time and date of collection, client details and other required information 4.4 Check collection site 4.5 Monitor client for possible adverse reactions 4.6 Provide relevant information and instructions client 4.7 Notify appropriate staff so that the client's condition can be monitored |
5. Label and store specimens for transportation | 5.1 Label specimens in accordance with International Standards Organisation 9000 or National Association of Testing Authorities standards 5.2 Process and store specimens correctly 5.3 Contain specimens appropriately for transport |
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: Boundaries of responsibilities in relation to neonates in accordance with organisation policy Conditions, diseases and client issues which may impact upon the ability to undertake blood tests and ways which may assist to alleviate these Demonstrated knowledge of pre-test criteria Factor which may affect the analysis of specialised blood tests (e.g. temperature, handling, correct tube use) Human anatomy and physiology in relation to the vascular, arterial, nervous and endocrine systems relevant to blood collections from premature neonates and for other blood collections for specialised testing Medical terminology relevant to blood collection for specialised testing Minimum collection volumes for premature neonates Possible adverse reactions and contra-indications and appropriate ways to respond Specimen handling procedures for specialised tests |
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 first aid management and/or response procedures relevant to risks associated with blood collection for specialised testing Comply with organisation policies and procedures including WHS and infection control Demonstrate procedures to be implemented to resolve complications resulting from blood collections for specialised testing Demonstrate relevant WHS procedures Demonstrate the correct selection and use of equipment and disposables for blood collection for specialised testing Exhibit an appropriate level of care reflecting courtesy, responsiveness and helpfulness Identify clinical risks and response procedures in relation to the relevant range of blood collection procedures Operate applicable information system Provide clear explanation of intended procedure and obtain consent continued ... |
Essential skills: Recognise boundaries of responsibilities and refer problems to supervisor, pathologist, scientist or other appropriate health professional Recognise reactions and respond promptly if necessary Recognise reactions and respond promptly if necessary Select appropriate transit procedure and documentation, or selection of appropriate storage Undertake correct techniques for blood collection through venipuncture or skin puncture Use assessment skills for determination of correct blood collection site and procedure in relation to premature neonates and for other specialised testing Use correct technique to avoid cross-contamination of samples 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 non-routine 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 without supervision within defined boundaries |
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: | A simulated workplace environment to mimic the relations and communications between client reception, blood collection, specimen reception and the laboratory may be appropriate for initial training and initial assessment A real workplace is recommended for subsequent training and assessment All necessary blood collection equipment and tubes Current relevant organisation policy and procedure manuals |
Method of assessment may include: | Observation in the work place (if possible) Written assignments/projects 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 and/or Torres Strait Islander clients and communities |
Related units: | This competency unit may be assessed independently, but holistic assessment practice with other pathology collection units of competency is encouraged |
The Range Statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Add any essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts. | |
Blood collection undertaken solely by the pathology collector may include: | Blood collections from premature neonates Blood collections involving: Special pre-test conditions (e.g. Dexamethasone, clients receiving chemotherapy) Special tubes and equipment (e.g. Pyruvate, PKU, PTHrP tubes) Special specimen handling procedures (e.g. Cryoglobulins, cold agglutinins) Dynamic endocrine tests Synacthen Stimulation tests Other blood collections for specialised testing as specified by organisation policy |
Pathology request may: | Be in writing Be made by a medical or authorized nurse practitioner And must be in accordance with relevant legislation |
Clients may include: | Adults Adolescents Paediatrics Neonates Premature neonates, subject to organisation policy and procedures |
Organisation policy and procedures may include: | Scope of the Pathology Collector's role and practice Entry to Critical Care areas, Neonatal ICU, Burns Unit or Spinal Unit Access to humidicribs Collections from clients in rotating beds Pre-test criteria Consent Blood collection protocols Work health and safety (WHS) Collection of clinical information from clients Correct use of personal protective equipment Disposal of contaminated and cytotoxic wastes Infection control Maintenance of specimen integrity Specimen transport requirements Emergency response procedures |
Condition or issue which may make the collection difficult may include | Presence of an underlying disease or medical condition which may affect the collection of blood, for example leukaemia dementia Client fear Age |
Pre-test criteria may include: | Client identification Relevant client details Collection of clinical information relevant to specialised test Fasting Other dietary restrictions Drug therapy Rest Contraindications Health status of the client Respiratory status Referral of issues to an appropriate health professional |
Equipment and disposables include: | Tourniquets Collection tubes Temperature-controlled containers Range of syringes and needles Multi-sample needle and holder Winged infusion set ("butterfly") Evacuated blood collection equipment Lancets Sharps containers Alcohol wipes Dressings Local anaesthetic skin cream |
Personal protective equipment includes: | Gloves Gowns Aprons Masks Protective eye wear |
Blood collection procedures may include: | Skin puncture Venipuncture |
Infection control procedures may include: | Standard and Additional precautions Collection site preparation Waste handling and disposal |
Waste may include: | Clinical waste Sharps Cytotoxic waste General waste Personal and confidential waste |
Documentation may include: | Record of test procedures Complete and sign request form Medical Record notation Labelling Data entry |
Appropriate staff may include: | Registered Nurse Nursing Unit Manager Collection Centre staff |
Correct storage requirements of specimens may include: | Use of ice or dry ice Maintenance of warm temperature Timely transfer to storage Protection from light |
Venues for collection may include: | Centres/clinics Home visits - invalid, elderly or disabled clients Hospitals Other facilities including aged care and mental health facilities |
Not Applicable
This unit contains Employability Skills |
Not Applicable