An Introduction to Blood Results in Clinical Practice for HCAs

Course code: IH92

Course summary

This interactive virtual course is delivered live via Zoom and is designed for Healthcare Assistants (HCAs) and other healthcare staff who have limited experience of blood test results and their interpretation. Through tutor-led presentations, discussion and practical examples, participants will gain a basic understanding of common blood tests, their clinical significance and how blood results support patient assessment and care.

The course provides a practical overview of common haematological and biochemical investigations, explaining why they are requested, what normal and abnormal results may indicate, and when findings should be escalated to a registered clinician.

Who should attend?

Health Care Support Workers

Important notes

This is a live online training course delivered via Zoom. Participants will require a computer or tablet with internet access, speakers and microphone facilities to fully engage in the training.

Cost

Course duration	Course CPD	In-house Course
1 day(s)	7 hour(s)	POA

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Aims / objectives

By the end of this live virtual course participants will be able to:

Describe the purpose and clinical value of common blood tests.
Understand the principles of safe blood sample collection, handling and storage.
Recognise the main components of routine haematology and biochemistry investigations.
Identify normal reference ranges for commonly requested blood tests.
Recognise common abnormal blood results and their potential significance.
Understand how blood test results contribute to the assessment and monitoring of patients.
Identify results that may require prompt escalation to a registered clinician.
Demonstrate a basic approach to interpreting blood results within a clinical context.

Course programme

Blood Sampling and Laboratory Processes
- The role of blood testing in clinical practice
- Key principles of obtaining blood samples
- Sample labelling, handling, transport and storage
- Factors that can affect the accuracy of blood results
Understanding the Full Blood Count (FBC)
- Overview of the Full Blood Count
- Red blood cells, haemoglobin and haematocrit
- White blood cells and differential counts
- Platelets and their clinical significance
- Common abnormalities and what they may indicate
Biochemistry and Urea & Electrolytes (U&Es)
- Understanding kidney function tests
- Urea, creatinine and eGFR
- Sodium, potassium and other electrolytes
- Common causes of abnormal results
- Recognising clinically significant abnormalities
Liver Function Tests (LFTs)
- Why liver function tests are requested
- Understanding ALT, AST, ALP, bilirubin and albumin
- Common patterns of abnormal liver function
- Clinical implications and when to escalate concerns
Interpreting Blood Results in Practice
- Understanding reference ranges
- Looking at results in the context of the patient
- Recognising trends and changes over time
- Case study examples and practical exercises
- Knowing the limits of the HCA role and when to seek clinical advice

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