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

Appropriate practices to ensure efficient use of power and other resources

Current legislative requirements for the use of general anaesthesia in dentistry related to the role of the dental assistant

Dental anatomy anatomy and physiology dental pharmacology and anaesthesia oral pathology dental histology dental materials

Fundamental knowledge of the fields of dentistry required to assist the operator to carry out the full range of oral health care procedures

Physiology of respiration

Reasons for keeping accurate records of oral conditions and treatments

The importance for clients to follow pre and post operative instructions

Why medical emergencies may occur and the appropriate response including recognition of vital signs

Essential skills

It is critical that the candidate demonstrate the ability to

Consistently prepare clients environments instruments and materials for oral health care procedures under general anaesthesia

Consistently provide chairside support to the operator during oral health care procedures under general anaesthesia

Consistently maintain and store instruments equipment materials and medicaments

Consistently implement standard and additional precautions while preparing for and assisting with oral health care procedures under general anaesthesia

Consistently follow procedures to ensure client safety during oral health care procedures under general anaesthesia

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 effectively the dentist or dental specialist during general anaesthesia

Consistently demonstrate interpersonal skills when relating to people from a range of social cultural and religious backgrounds and physical and mental abilities

Consistently follow sequenced written instructions and manufacturer specifications for the preparation of materials and medicaments

Consistently demonstrate communication skills as required in fulfilling the job role as specified by the dental practiceorganisation including

acknowledging and responding to a range of views

active listening

asking for clarification from client andor carer

asking questions

negotiation

Consistently deal with conflict

Consistently work with others and display empathy with client and relatives

Consistently use problem solving skills required including

selecting and preparing instruments equipment and materials as directed by the operator

using available resources

Identify behavioural characteristics of fear and anxiety

Perform basic life support

Recognise respond to and assist with medical emergencies

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

Consistent compliance with infection control guidelines WHS policies Australian and New Zealand 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

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

Method of assessment

Observation in the work place is essential

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

Role play simulation

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

Written pre-operative and post-operative instructions may include but are not limited to:

Charts andrecords may include but are not limited to:

Equipment, instruments materials and medicaments may include but are not limited to:

Personal protective equipment may include:

Post operative care may include: