The impact of formal education on entry level phlebotomy skills in Wisconsin
File(s)
Date
2020Author
Blonk, Heather K.
Publisher
University of Wisconsin-Stout
Advisor(s)
Klemme, Dianne
Metadata
Show full item recordAbstract
Although there are several formal phlebotomy training opportunities offered throughout the state of Wisconsin, there are no state or federal requirements mandating formal education for phlebotomists. Healthcare organizations offer on-the-job-training to entry level phlebotomists. These training lessons are unregulated and inconsistent among organizations, leading to poor phlebotomy skills and sub-standard laboratory practices. These practices can leave patients at risk for safety issues related to errors in laboratory testing. The purpose of this study was to identify the impact of formal education on entry level phlebotomy skills in Wisconsin. Questionnaires were sent to 20 healthcare facilities in Wisconsin. Data was collected from entry level phlebotomists and managers regarding phlebotomy training, education, and competency. Results showed those with formal education more frequently encountered poor phlebotomy competency skills. The data also indicated a difference in skills phlebotomists wish they had more training in based on their educational background. When considering basic knowledge of phlebotomy skills, the data shows those with formal education were able to identify situations and concepts related to pre-analytic errors where those with no formal education were not as likely to identify them. In conclusion more research is needed surrounding formal education and proper phlebotomy skills and knowledge.
Subject
Phlebotomy
Education
Medical care
Permanent Link
http://digital.library.wisc.edu/1793/81320Description
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