Date of Publication
2025
Abstract
Improving Nurse Confidence and Venipuncture Competency in a Skilled Nursing Facility Through a Simulation-Based Training Program
Nicholas J. LeBeau Department of Nursing, University of Vermont Master of Science in Nursing Project April 23rd, 2025
Background. Most residents living in a Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) require phlebotomy at least once every two months or more frequently. Many nursing schools do not teach venipuncture skills as part of their curriculum, so nurses learn through their organization’s training program, if it is offered. This leads to decreased confidence and increased risk of unsuccessful venipuncture attempts.
Purpose. Increase nurse-reported confidence levels in performing venipuncture to 20% above baseline and achieve successful venipuncture competency in 50% of nursing staff in a SNF.
Methods. Nurses were surveyed immediately before venipuncture education to assess baseline knowledge and confidence levels using WHO guidelines and a confidence questionnaire. Nurses received a three-hour training on venipuncture using didactic and experiential learning with simulation aids and were surveyed immediately afterwards. Nurses achieved competency in accordance with facility guidelines and were surveyed again one month later. Results. Seven nurses participated in the education. 53.6% of all nurses in the SNF achieved competency in venipuncture by the end of this training. The mean baseline confidence level was 42.9% and increased to 74.3% immediately following training. Mean confidence levels at one-month follow up were 71.4%, however this decrease was not statistically significant (p = 0.60365). The overall increase in venipuncture confidence levels over a one-month period was demonstrated to be statistically significant (p = 0.00824). Venipuncture knowledge increased in six out of ten categories from baseline at one month follow up.
Conclusion. Providing comprehensive training using simulation aids significantly increases nurse confidence and knowledge in venipuncture.
Keywords: Skilled Nursing Facility; Phlebotomy; Education, Continuing
Document Type
Dissertation/Thesis
Recommended Citation
LeBeau, Nicholas Jon, "Improving Nurse Confidence and Venipuncture Competency in a Skilled Nursing Facility Through a Simulation-Based Training Program" (2025). College of Nursing and Health Sciences Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) Project Publications. 8.
https://scholarworks.uvm.edu/cnhscnl/8