Both peripheral intravenous (IV) cannulation and phlebotomy require a high degree of precision, attention to detail, and empathy toward patients. The safety of patients and clinicians is of utmost importance during these procedures.
This practical training program is designed to equip Registered Nurses and other qualified clinicians working in Primary Health Care with the essential skills and knowledge required for effective peripheral IV cannulation and phlebotomy.
Learning Outcomes
Participants will gain hands-on experience and theoretical understanding in the following areas:
- Vein and device selection
- Identifying and palpating suitable veins for insertion, considering factors like vein size, location, and patient condition (e.g., hydration status, age, and BMI).
- Understanding the different types of cannulas, needles, and collection devices available, and knowing how to choose the appropriate size and type based on the clinical situation.
- Analysing patient-specific factors (e.g., chronic conditions, allergies, previous venous access history) that may impact device choice.
- Practicing the assessment of veins through simulation, ensuring proficiency in making safe and effective selections in a clinical context.
- Techniques and procedures
- Mastering the step-by-step procedures for both IV cannulation and blood collection, including patient positioning, skin preparation, and insertion techniques.
- Demonstrating correct handling of cannulation and phlebotomy equipment, ensuring aseptic technique to reduce the risk of infection.
- Learning the proper angle and insertion depth for needles and cannulas, minimizing discomfort and maximizing success rates.
- Practicing in simulated scenarios to improve speed, precision, and confidence in real-world settings.
- Complication management
- Identifying potential complications such as haematoma, phlebitis, infiltration, extravasation, and arterial puncture, and understanding their causes and risk factors.
- Responding appropriately to complications, including managing bleeding, adjusting technique in the event of failed cannulation, and recognising signs of more serious issues (e.g., nerve injury, infection).
- Developing the ability to take corrective action in real time, including proper handling of the device, assessing the need for device repositioning, and, if necessary, reattempting cannulation or blood collection.
- Documenting and reporting complications according to organisational protocols and best practices.
- Safety and best practices
- Reviewing infection control practices, including hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and the safe disposal of needles and sharps.
- Understanding and applying guidelines for minimising risks to patients, such as reducing the number of attempts at venepuncture, ensuring proper patient consent, and providing aftercare advice.
- Emphasising the importance of maintaining patient dignity and comfort throughout the procedure and employing effective communication to reduce patient anxiety and promote trust.
- Familiarity with organisational protocols, clinical guidelines, and legal considerations relevant to IV cannulation and phlebotomy procedures.
Scope
The training program does not allow participants to perform:
- peripheral IV cannulation in patients less than 15 years of age
- phlebotomy in patients less than 10 years of age
This is not a certification programme and is not applicable to those wanting to train as a Phlebotomist. Attendance and receipt of certificate of attendance does not imply or certify competency of the recipient. Further, attendance/receipt of certificate does not reflect scope of practice.
Disclaimer
Please be advised that there are limited spaces available for the Peripheral IV Cannulation & Phlebotomy Simulation session. Facilitators reserve the right to decline or cancel bookings in order to prioritise registration for GP practice nurses currently working within the Counties Manukau domicile. We appreciate your understanding and encourage you to contact us if you have any questions or concerns regarding eligibility or availability.
Venue
Clinical Teaching and Education Centre (CTEC)
Level 1 Building 7 (Poutasi Link) Middlemore Hospital
100 Hospital Road, Otahuhu, Auckland
Directions and Parking Information
Schedule
Date: 18 March, 15 July, 16 September 2025
Time: Group A: 0900-1100hrs
Group B: 1200-1400hrs
Professional Development Hours and Certification
- Ko Awatea LEARN online module: 3 hours (digital certificate of completion accessible)
- Simulation: 2 hours (certificate of attendance provided)
Fees (equipment levy)
$200.00
NB: late cancellation fee applies - fee is 50% of ticket cost if notification occurs within 48 hours of stated event.
Registration / Training Process
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Book via TryBooking
https://www.trybooking.com/nz/UFO
Confirmation will be emailed once your application has been accepted.
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Register for Ko Awatea LEARN Account
Instructions on how to access Ko Awatea LEARN will be sent to your email after successful completion of online booking.
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Complete Ko Awatea LEARN online Module
Click here to access eLearning Module or search “Peripheral IV Cannulation and Phlebotomy”.
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Attend Simulation Day
Venue: CTEC, Middlemore Hospital (Level 1 Building 7/Poutasi Link)
This is facilitated by Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora Counties Manukau Vascular Access Clinical Nurse Specialist and B Braun Educator.
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Undergo Supervised Clinical Practice
It is the responsibility of your workplace to provide clinical supervision.
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Competency Assessment / Sign off
Cannulation IV Cannulation Competency Assessment Form
(DOC, 1.1 MB)
Phlebotomy / Venepuncture Competency Assessment Form
(DOC, 140 KB)
(Your workplace is responsible for assessing competency.)
