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Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Elements define the essential outcomes
2. Prepare for the development of augmentative and alternative communication systems
   • Obtain information about requirements from the speech pathologist
   • Confirm the communication goals with the speech pathologist
   • Determine need for interpreter
   • Confer with allied health professional about any ambiguities or requirements outside scope of role and responsibilities as defined by the organisation
3. Assist in the development of augmentative and alternative communication systems
   • Confirm the nature of the communication system and implications for resource requirements with speech pathologist
   • Confirm client’s previous and current abilities with the speech pathologist to inform choice and presentation of resources
   • Select resources following speech pathologist’s directions
   • Consult with speech pathologist to ensure that resources are appropriate to the individual and their communication system, the type of therapy and the specified communication goals
   • Identify existing resources, adapt them and use them in an imaginative and flexible manner within the directions of the speech pathologist
   • Make resources as directed by speech pathologist
   • Ensure resources are not hazardous to the individual or others, and satisfy health and safety requirements
4. Support the use of augmentative and alternative communication systems
   • Identify the type of communication system used by a client prior to making contact
   • Make appropriate power supply available
   • Prepare appropriate resources and equipment to facilitate communication via the communication system
   • Set out equipment and furniture for client comfort and optimum access to the communication system, in line with health and safety procedures and guidelines and according to the directions of the speech pathologist
   • Liaise with the speech pathologist and other relevant health professionals to assist the client to access the system in regard to physical comfort and any specific positioning and mobility requirements
   • Use appropriate mode of communication in communicating with the client
5. Comply with supervisory requirements
   • Seek assistance when client presents with needs or signs outside limits of own authority, skills and/or knowledge
   • Report client difficulties to the supervising allied health professional for advice before continuing the program
   • Participate in supervision processes with the treating allied health professional in accordance with organisational protocol
6. Clean and store equipment
   • Clean any material and equipment according to manufacturers requirements
   • Store material and equipment according to manufacturers requirements and organisation protocols
   • Report equipment faults to appropriate person
7. Document client information
   • Use accepted protocols to document information relating to the program to assist with the use of a communication system in line with organisation requirements
   • Use appropriate terminology in reporting

Performance Evidence

The candidate must show evidence of the ability to complete tasks outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit, manage tasks and manage contingencies in the context of the job role. There must be evidence that the candidate has:

provided therapeutic guidance for 3 clients in the use of communication systems under the direction of a speech pathologist, 1 in a simulated environment and 2 in the workplace, including:

positioning the client and managing the environment for optimum use of a communication system

designing and making communication systems to meet individual needs

performed the activities outlined in the performance criteria of this unit during a period of at least 120 hours of work

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Knowledge Evidence

The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively complete tasks outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit, manage tasks and manage contingencies in the context of the work role. This includes knowledge of:

communication needs of clients with congenital, developmental, acquired and progressive disabilities

augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems and strategies available

criteria used in the selection and application of AAC devices for people with complex communication needs

work health and safety (WHS) policies and procedures that relate to the allied health assistant’s role in implementing speech therapy programs

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