Chapter 2 · Operator training and competency

Every operator of a POCT device must be trained before use and competency-assessed at defined intervals. Training must cover: the test principle, device operation, QC procedure, result interpretation, limitations, and reporting. A training record must be maintained for every operator. Nursing and ward staff using POCT devices are not exempt from these requirements. Remote training or e-learning is acceptable if followed by observed competency assessment.

Chapter 2 · Practical example

POCT operator training — formal, assessed, documented

Every POCT operator must receive formal training before independent use and undergo documented competency assessment at defined intervals.

▲ The situation

A new nursing auxiliary is shown how to use the ward blood glucose meter by a colleague in a five-minute demonstration during a quiet moment. The ward manager considers this sufficient training.

Reference: ISO 15189:2022 Clause 5.9; POCT Training Requirements

✓
Good practice

The POCT coordinator provides formal training: device operating procedure, QC procedure and acceptance criteria, critical value thresholds and notification pathway, troubleshooting common errors, and documentation requirements. The new operator is directly observed completing a full test cycle including QC. A training record is signed by both. The operator is added to the authorised user register.

✗
Poor practice

The five-minute demonstration is accepted as training. The operator begins independent use. Three months later, the POCT coordinator audits QC records and asks the operator to demonstrate the QC procedure. She performs it incorrectly — loading control solution after the QC sequence has started, invalidating the result. QC has never been performed correctly under her usage. Results from patients tested by this operator during that period cannot be confirmed as quality-controlled.

● What this means for your practice

POCT training must include direct observation of the complete procedure — not just explanation. Informal peer training perpetuates the errors of the trainer. Every POCT device must have an authorised user register linked to documented, assessed training records.