In order for a safe inference of competence to be made on this unit the candidate must provide evidence of the following areas of skills and knowledge

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

Equipment and materials for dental radiography

equipment for automatic processing

equipment for manual processing

reasons for rotating film stock and using film before its expiry date

reasons for storing films away from ionising radiation

safe methods of storage and disposal of processing solutions

the nature and purpose of processing solutions

Fundamental knowledge of the production and biological effects of ionising radiation

biological risks associated with Xrays

hazards associated with Xrays including the mechanisms by which Xrays cause damage to human tissues

nature and uses of Xrays

production of Xrays

Mounting films

fundamental knowledge of dental anatomy

methods of mounting radiographs

Processing films

procedures required for automatic film processing

procedures required for manual film processing

processing solutions and appropriate methods of handling and preparation

reasons for lighttightness use of safelights clean working space and adequate ventilation

the automatic processing cycle

the stages of the manual processing cycle

Quality assurance of processing

the criteria for determining whether a radiograph is of an acceptable quality

the causes of common processing errors and the remedy for correction

continued

Essential knowledge contd

The code of practice for radiation protection in dentistry

methods for monitoring the adequacy of radiation protection

procedures for minimising radiation risks to clients self the oral healthcare team and the public

the organisations quality assurance policy for processing radiographs to consistent diagnostic quality

the purpose of quality assuring dental radiographs and its relationship to radiation protection

The role of radiographs in dentistry

benefits and risks of dental radiography

digital radiography what is it and how it is used its advantages and disadvantages over conventional filmbased radiography

extraoral films and applications

intraoral film sizes and applications

use of radiographs in the diagnosis and monitoring of dental disease

Essential skills

It is critical that the candidate demonstrate the ability to

Apply radiation occupational health and safety policies and procedures

Correctly handle and store radiographic films and processing solutions

Correctly prepare clients for dental radiographic imaging procedures

Correctly process mount and file of radiographic films

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

Assist the operator during dental radiography safely and effectively

Consistently able to handle and dispose of radiographic solutions safely

Consistently able to handle dental radiographs carefully and attach accurate legible and complete records to them

Consistently able to implement remedies for common processing faults

Consistently able to recognise causes of common processing errors

Consistently apply the correct procedures for mounting and storing dental radiographs

Consistently apply the correct processing procedure

Consistently use safe work practices to minimise the risk of transmission of infection

Consistently use the correct processing equipment

Take into account opportunities to address waste minimisation environmental responsibility and sustainable practice issues

Use literacy skills to read and follow directions policies and procedures including

infection control policies and procedures

manufacturer specifications for the preparation of materials and medicaments

occupational health and safety policies and procedures

practice policies and procedures

sequenced written instructions for manual andor automatic processing methods

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 desirable for assessment of this unit

Consistent compliance with current infection control guidelines Australian Standards and legislative requirements as they relate to the dental assistants specific job role

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

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Assessment must replicate workplace conditions as far as possible

Method of assessment

Observation in the workplace is desirable

Evidence of essential knowledge and understanding may be provided by

traditional or online computerbased assessment

written assignmentsprojects

Case study and scenario as a basis for discussion of issues and strategies to contribute to best practice

Questioning

Staff andor client feedback

Supporting statement of supervisor

Authenticated evidence of relevant work experience andor formalinformal learning

Roleplaysimulation

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

Related units

This unit should be assessed in conjunction with the following related unit

HLTDAC Prepare for and assist with oral health care procedures

HLTDA303C Prepare for and assist with oral health care procedures

Protection from ionising radiations may include but is not limited to:

Safe work practices include:

Radiographic film may include:

Processing equipmentmay include but is not limited to:

Processing solutions may include:

Personal protective equipment may include:

Processing stages include:

Commonfaults caused by incorrect processingmay include film that is:

Stock may include:

Radiographic quality assurance programs may include but are not limited to:

Optimum conditions may include but are not limited to

Record of unacceptable radiographs may include but is not limited to: