Pathology collectors play a vital role within Australia’s health care system, they are the face of pathology. They are trained to accurately collect and store patient samples and to provide the correct paperwork with each one. Below we describe the role of a pathology collector, highlighting some key facts you might not know.
1. Pathology collectors are often the only pathology staff who get to interact with patients
2. Pathology collectors take specimens like nasal swabs, wound swabs, skin samples, urine samples and blood from a vein
3. There are around 13 different coloured tubes which all have different chemical additives which affect the blood in many ways. Pathology collectors need to know which tubes to collect for all tests, how many tubes, as well as any special conditions. This can include situations like having the patient fasted prior to the blood draw, keeping the sample at body temperature after collection, or even freezing the sample
4. Pathology collectors use a variety of collection systems such as winged infusion sets (also known as ‘butterflies’), vacutainers and syringes. They are trained to assess a person’s veins and select the appropriate system
5. Pathology collectors are also trained in first aid, so you can feel at ease that you’re in safe hands. As a health care professional, pathology collectors ensure patients who are afraid, unwell or prone to fainting or dizziness are looked after.
The HLT37215 Certificate III in Pathology Collection qualification reflects the role of pathology collectors. Workers in this role follow known routines and procedures, taking responsibility for their own work under general supervision.
They combine communication, customer service and technical skills, and use discretion and judgement to adapt and transfer their skills to different situations. If you’re interested in studying, LTT offers this nationally recognised qualification at our Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney training centres.