List the assessment methods to be used and the context and resources required for assessment. Copy and paste the relevant sections from the evidence guide below and then re-write these in plain English.
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1 | Process samples and associated request details | 1.1 | Sort specimens according to tests requested, urgent status and volume |
| 1.2 | Return samples and request forms that do not comply with requirements to their source with reasons for non-acceptance |
| 1.3 | Log acceptable samples and request forms, applying required document tracking mechanisms |
| 1.4 | Process samples as required by requested tests |
| 1.5 | Store samples and sample components appropriately until ready for testing |
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2 | Perform tests | 2.1 | Select authorised tests that are indicated for the requested investigations |
| 2.2 | Conduct individual tests according to documented methodologies, applying required quality control procedures |
| 2.3 | Record all results, noting any phenomena that may be relevant to the interpretation of results |
| 2.4 | Seek advice of section head or other responsible colleague when result interpretation is outside parameters of authorised approval |
| 2.5 | Store unused sample or sample components, for possible future reference, under conditions suitable to maintain viability |
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3 | Maintain a safe environment | 3.1 | Use established safe work practices and personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure personal safety and that of other laboratory personnel |
| 3.2 | Clean up spills using appropriate techniques to protect personnel, work area and environment from contamination |
| 3.3 | Minimise the generation of wastes |
| 3.4 | Ensure the safe disposal of biohazardous materials and other laboratory wastes in accordance with workplace procedures |
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4 | Maintain laboratory records | 4.1 | Make entries on report forms or into computer systems, accurately calculating, recording or transcribing required data as required |
| 4.2 | Update instrument maintenance logs as required by accreditation checklists |
| 4.3 | Maintain security and confidentiality of all clinical information, laboratory data and records |
Evidence of competence in this unit must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria, and include demonstration of:
safely performing at least five (5) haematological tests or procedures to determine levels, function, activity and interactions of cellular and plasma components of blood
accurately counting and measuring blood cells
deriving cell data to assist with classification of cell populations
staining cells, identifying their morphology and classifying them
determining the amount and function of blood components, such as haemoglobin
measuring clinically phenomena, such as the erythrocyte sedimentation rate or detecting markers of immune response
assessing haemostasis by performing coagulation, fibrinolysis and thrombosis tests
preparing documentation that is accurate, concise and in accordance with workplace requirements
managing and organising work to ensure the timely completion of tasks
critically analysing information and documents and recognising problems in systems and documentation
using workplace information systems efficiently
using samples, reagents and materials economically and disposing of wastes safely
maintaining security and confidentiality of all clinical information, laboratory data and records
maintaining equipment and recording and reporting malfunctions in accordance with workplace requirements.
Must provide evidence that demonstrates knowledge of:
scientific, medical, clinical, technical and workplace terminology relevant to normal and abnormal haematology, including anatomy, physiology, genetics, biochemistry and immunology
the investigation of blood cell disorders, including anaemia, leucocytosis, leucocytopaenias, leukaemia and thrombocytopenia
heritable and acquired coagulopathies and therapeutic drug-related alterations in haemostatic and coagulation mechanisms
haematological responses to infection, immunisation and malignancy
necessity for a patient or client focus when performing laboratory procedures and tests, including issues of confidentiality and security of clinical and laboratory information and data
relationships that exist between the sample and the test result, including:
sample collection
the preservation and timely testing of samples
sample storage requirements and issues of artefact
sub-sampling routines, including the nature of unstable particulate suspensions
validated tests
quality control
quality assurance
use and maintenance of laboratory equipment and resources that contribute to accurate, precise, timely and economical generation of data for use by clinicians
relevant hazards, work health and safety (WHS) and environment requirements.
Judgment of competence must be based on holistic assessment of the evidence. Assessment methods must confirm consistency of performance over time, rather than a single assessment event.
This unit of competency is to be assessed in the workplace or a simulated workplace environment. A simulated workplace environment must reflect realistic operational workplace conditions that cover all aspects of workplace performance, including the environment, task skills, task management skills, contingency management skills and job role environment skills.
Foundation skills are integral to competent performance of the unit and should not be assessed separately.
Assessment processes and techniques must be appropriate to the language, literacy and numeracy requirements of the work being performed and the needs of the candidate.
Knowledge evidence may be collected concurrently with performance evidence or through an independent process, such as workbooks, written assessments or interviews (provided a record is kept in each case).
This unit of competency may be assessed with:
MSL925001 Analyse data and report results
MSL934002 Apply quality system and continuous improvement processes
Holistic assessment methods include:
review of results/data/records generated by the candidate
feedback from peers and supervisors that the candidate follows workplace procedures consistently and that tasks are performed in accordance with workplace requirements
oral and/or written tests and paper problems associated with haematological test methods and laboratory processes, such as equipment calibration and maintenance
observation of the candidate performing haematological tests
integrated assessment with a case study focus, such as:
performance of the routine full blood count, including the examination of the stained blood film
a coagulation screen, including tests to measure anti-vitamin K and anti-heparin therapeutic agents, and the counting of platelets
studies that can assist in identifying relationships between quantitative data from blood counts and morphological findings from stained blood films.
Access is required to instruments, equipment, materials, workplace documentation, procedures and specifications associated with this unit, including, but not limited to:
a standard haematology laboratory with relevant equipment, samples and reagents, laboratory information system, databases and record/filing system
instruments for the semi-automated or automated electronic counting and partial characterisation of blood cells, the measurement of haemoglobin and the computation of red cell indices
workplace procedures, test methods and equipment manuals.
Under duty of care requirements, off-the-job training providers should ensure that blood samples are known to be antibody free for hepatitis B and C, syphilis and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). However, this does not reduce the need for universal precautions in the use of samples.
Assessors must satisfy the assessor competency requirements that are in place at the time of the assessment as set by the VET regulator.
The assessor must demonstrate both technical competence and currency.
Technical competence can be demonstrated through:
relevant VET or other qualification/Statement of Attainment AND/OR
relevant workplace experience.
Currency can be demonstrated through:
performing the competency being assessed as part of current employment OR
having consulted with a laboratory about performing the competency being assessed within the last twelve months.