Venepuncture

Overview

Venepuncture is used as a diagnostic aid in patient management. Anyone who practises venepuncture must receive training and undergo supervised practice. All practitioners must operate within the protocols set out by their organisation. There is no minimum standard to demonstrate competency to take blood. The practitioner should be supervised until they feel competent.

Objectives

This training will enable learners to:

• Recognise the anatomy and physiology of veins
• Outline the preparation required for venepuncture
• List the steps in a safe venepuncture
• List the potential complications