This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level required for this unit

Essential knowledge

The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively do the task outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit manage the task and manage contingencies in the context of the identified work role

This includes knowledge of

Fundamental anatomy and physiology

Relevant policies protocols and practices of the organisation and care programs and plans which may include

purpose of continence programs and knowledge of continence aids

causes of loss of skin integrity implications for the client and processes to maintain skin integrity

personal care

infection control procedures

awareness of relevant work health and safety WHS guidelines especially manual handling

working within role and responsibility

working effectively and following instructions

complying with relevant policies protocols guidelines and procedures

Procedures and requirements for the collection of clinical data from clients

Common equipment and aids utilised in the delivery of personal care

Simple technical skills including

simple dressing

catheter care not including insertion or removal of tubes

application of prostheses

application of antithrombosis stockings

assistance with breathing devices under the direct supervision of a health professional

simple eye care

Principles and practices of confidentiality and privacy

Principles and practices associated with supporting and assisting clients to meet personal care needs

Own work role and responsibilities

Essential skills

It is critical that the candidate demonstrate the ability to

Adhere to own work role and responsibilities

Follow organisation policies and procedures

Work under the direction of a registered nurse

Liaise and report appropriately to health professionals

In addition the candidate must be able to effectively do the task outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit manage the task and manage contingencies in the context of the identified work role

This includes the ability to

Communicate effectively with clients when collecting information and data and assisting with personal care needs

Use equipment and follow procedures for collecting client clinical data

Operate equipment and aids utilised in the delivery of personal care

Work under direction and supervision

Work effectively with clients colleagues and supervisors

Deal with conflict

Work in a manner that respects the dignity of clients

Display empathy to clients and relatives

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the Performance Criteria Required Skills and Knowledge the Range Statement and the Assessment Guidelines for this Training Package

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate this competency unit

The individual being assessed must provide evidence of specified essential knowledge as well as skills

Observation of workplace performance is essential for assessment of this unit

Consistency of performance should be demonstrated over the required range of situations relevant to the workplace

Where for reasons of safety space or access to equipment and resources assessment takes place away from the workplace the assessment environment should represent workplace conditions as closely as possible

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Assessment must be completed in the workplace

Relevant guidelines standards and procedures

Resources essential for assessment include

equipment for the gathering client clinical data

equipment and aids to assist with mobility and personal care

Access and equity considerations

All workers in the health industry should be aware of access and equity issues in relation to their own area of work

All workers should develop their ability to work in a culturally diverse environment

In recognition of particular health issues facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities workers should be aware of cultural historical and current issues impacting on health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

Assessors and trainers must take into account relevant access and equity issues in particular relating to factors impacting on health of Aboriginal andor Torres Strait Islander clients and communities

Needs of clients may include

Factors to be considered when working within a plan of care may include:

Clinical data may include:

Procedures for collecting client clinical data may include:

Personal care may include:

Simple technical skills may include:

Equipment and aids may include:

Reporting may include: