One-Day Point-of-Care Testing (POCT) Workshop

Co-ordinators: Mr Greg Khoury and Prof Rajiv Erasmus

Enquiries: Prof R Erasmus via email: rte@sun.ac.za

Time: 08:00 - 14:30

Location: Cardiometabolic Research Unit, Biomedical Sciences, CPUT, Bellville

Faculty: Dr Raghubeer, Dr Prince, Prof Sandberg, Prof Erasmus, Mr Khoury, Prof Davison, Mr Hassan

Maximum Number of participants: 20

Registration fees : R1900

Point-of-care testing (POCT) in pharmacies, GP practices, primary health care centres and emergency departments   provide immediate diagnostic results for chronic and acute conditions, such as blood glucose, lipids, HbA1c, HIV, strep throat, and COVID-19, often via a finger prick or swab. These, rapid, non-laboratory tests improve patient access to care, allow for immediate  intervention or referral, and enhance patient monitoring. The integration of POCT into practices outside the hospital setting requires a controlled and professional approach. Practices must meet specific standards to manage risks associated with potential inaccurate results. 

This one day workshop considers the basic principles of Point of Care Testing and is presented in a simple format that includes all aspects of Point of Care Testing including ethics, quality assurance and patient safety. It will benefit all Point of Care Testing Operators. The workshop is divided into 4 key areas of Point of Care Testing that include Benefit and Risk of POCT, Quality Management, Internal and External Quality Control, and Ensuring Operator Competency.

The workshop is directed at Novice–intermediate POCT users  such as clinical staff, POCT coordinators, supervisors, pharmacists, technicians and general medical practitioners (GPs). An important aim of the workshop is to emphasise the practical aspects of Point of Care Testing to Point of Care operators and prevent errors

The format of the workshop is an interactive one which integrates lectures, practical demonstrations,  small-group exercises and  case discussions co-ordinated through a live session with materials provided via e-learning platform, Ukufunda.net. The total contact time is 7 hours which excludes tea and lunch. The workshop is CPD accredited. A minimum number of 5 participants will be necessary for the workshop to be given. 

Learning outcomes:

At the end of this course, participants should be able to:

1. Define POCT and identify appropriate clinical use cases, benefits, and risks. 

2. Describe roles/responsibilities in a POCT program (operators, POCT coordinator, lab, QA). 

3. Understand core quality management principles to POCT (pre-/analytical/post-analytical). 

4. Perform and interpret IQC and respond to out-of-control events. 

5. Understand EQA/PT purpose, participation, result review, and corrective actions. 

7. Identify key documentation requirements and compliance considerations.

Learning Management System: - Ukufunda.net

·       User registration

·       Pre and Post training quiz

·       Host training materials

·       Submission of assignments

·       Issue of certificates

PROGRAM