Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for Self-Employed Phlebotomist

 

SOP 1: Venepuncture Procedure

Purpose: To ensure safe, hygienic, and effective blood collection from clients.

• - Verify client identity and gain informed consent.
• - Prepare equipment (needles, tubes, tourniquet, gloves, alcohol swabs, gauze, sharps bin).
• - Perform hand hygiene and apply PPE.
• - Identify and cleanse puncture site.
• - Apply tourniquet and insert needle using aseptic technique.
• - Collect required blood samples in the correct order.
• - Release tourniquet and remove needle.
• - Apply pressure and dressing to site.
• - Label samples at bedside/in front of client.
• - Dispose of sharps and waste immediately.
• - Document procedure and any complications.

SOP 2: Infection Prevention and Control

Purpose: To prevent cross-contamination and infection.

• - Wash hands before and after each client.
• - Use disposable gloves and masks.
• - Clean and disinfect all surfaces and equipment after each use.
• - Avoid contact with mucous membranes and open wounds.

SOP 3: Sharps Disposal and Clinical Waste

Purpose: To ensure safe disposal of sharps and clinical waste.

• - Do not recap needles.
• - Dispose of sharps immediately in an approved sharps bin.
• - Place blood-stained materials in clinical waste bags.
• - Store waste securely and arrange licensed disposal via contract.

SOP 4: Consent Procedure

Purpose: To ensure clients understand and agree to the procedure.

• - Explain the procedure, purpose, and risks.
• - Allow the client to ask questions.
• - Obtain verbal or written consent.
• - Record consent in documentation.
• - Respect the client’s right to withdraw at any time.

SOP 5: Incident Reporting

Purpose: To ensure prompt and proper response to incidents.

• - In case of needle-stick injury: perform first aid, seek medical attention, and record incident.
• - For client reactions (e.g., fainting): ensure safety, monitor vitals, report.
• - Document all incidents with time, date, and actions taken.

SOP 6: Sample Handling and Transport

Purpose: To maintain sample integrity.

• - Label tubes correctly at collection site.
• - Use biohazard bags and follow packaging protocols.
• - Maintain required temperature during transport.
• - Handover to lab with appropriate paperwork.

SOP 7: Data Protection and Confidentiality

Purpose: To comply with data protection laws (e.g., UK GDPR).

• - Collect only necessary client data.
• - Store records securely (password-protected devices, locked files).
• - Do not share client information without consent.
• - Register with the ICO (Information Commissioner’s Office) as a data handler.

Note: SOPs should be reviewed annually or following any incident. Maintain these procedures in your compliance folder and ensure updates are recorded.