MA 127 - Phlebotomy and ECG Technician

Credit Hours: 2

This combination lecture/laboratory course introduces students to the roles of the phlebotomist and the electrocardiography (ECG) technician in a simulated clinical environment using simulation arms to practice basic venipuncture and the phlebotomy specimen collection process. Students will also learn proper performance of electrocardiography (ECG) testing by placing electrodes on a life-like mannequin and using a cardiac rhythm simulator connected to an electrocardiograph to mimic various dysrhythmias and normal ECG tracings.

During this 15-week course learners will also review the fundamentals of safety and preparedness, proper disposal of biohazard material and medical sharps waste, general fire safety, emergency eyewash and safety shower procedures, as well as proper performance of point of care testing, micro-collection techniques, CLIA-waived tests, quality assurance and liability risk management according to established standards.

Nationally recognized certification exams will be administered upon successful completion of MA 127 and MA 129 where students will demonstrate competency in skills attainment.

Course Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

Identify the function of phlebotomy and electrocardiography (ECG) in the healthcare setting
Demonstrate competency in Laboratory Safety, Infection Control, Bloodborne Pathogens, OSHA Regulations & HIPAA Compliance
Perform venipuncture and capillary puncture techniques on adults, children, and infants
State and adhere to all safety protocols and guidelines to include universal precautions and infection control and other guidelines that may be provided both on campus as well as at the extern site
Identify workplace safeguards and safety techniques that can be used in responding to accidental blood exposure and/or needle stick injuries
State and adhere to all PHI rules and HIPAA regulations as specified by the extern site
Follow departmental policies and procedures to correctly identify the patient and the labeling protocols of all patient specimens.
Select appropriate evacuated tubes for routine blood collection
List criteria for minimizing collection complications and specimen rejection by the laboratory
Select appropriate veins and demonstrate proper collection techniques by venipuncture on adults
Recognize the need for specialized collection techniques, the complications and special considerations associated with blood collection and micro-collection
Relate the importance of collection criteria, specimen storage and transport for routine and special tests
Demonstrate processes for proper disposal of biohazardous and other regulated waste materials
Select appropriate collection systems for dermal punctures for adults, children and newborns as needed
Demonstrate proper micro-collection techniques in the adult
Perform common CLIA waived tests
List the importance of quality control tools as they relate to specimen collection
Perform electrocardiography (ECG) demonstrating proper procedure for recording and printing a standard 12-lead electrocardiogram
Identify the role of the ECG Technician in assisting with ECG assessment and interpretation
Identify quality assurance practices in healthcare
Demonstrate empathy, competency and care when interacting with patients
Enter data into a computer following protocols as needed
Use effective communication skills
Apply the skills required to project an image of professionalism to include appearance, conduct, punctuality, competency and continuing education as feasible

Prerequisites: Completion of all developmental English and math
Corequisites: MA 115; MA 129
Concurrent Registration: MA 129
F/S (N)

Students are also required to complete a Health Science Division Student Health Report Form prior to the first day of class; this is in addition to the medical form needed to be admitted to the college and is required by the host facility before rotation schedules can be requested and considered.

Students complete training in HIPAA and OSHA compliance, Laboratory Safety, Blood Borne Pathogens and Infection Control as part of their coursework prior to off-campus participation.

Nationally recognized certification exams will be administered upon successful completion of MA 127 and MA 129 where students will demonstrate competency in skills attainment in phlebotomy and electrocardiography

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