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

Current legislative requirements for the use of conscious sedation in dentistry and 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

Physiology of respiration

Reasons for keeping accurate records of oral conditions treatments and the administration of conscious sedation

The importance for clients to follow pre and post operative instructions

The types of complications which may arise from the administration of conscious sedation

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 follow procedures to ensure client safety during oral health care procedures under conscious sedation

Implement standard and additional precautions while preparing for and assisting with oral health care procedures under conscious sedation

Maintain and store instruments equipment materials and medicaments

Prepare clients environments instruments and materials for oral health care procedures under conscious sedation

Provide chairside support to the operator during oral health care procedures under conscious sedation

Use safe and correct handling of instruments equipment and agents in the administration of intravenous sedation and conscious sedation in dentistry in accordance with legislative requirements

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 conscious sedation

Deal with conflict

Identify behavioural characteristics of fear and anxiety

Recognise respond to and assist with medical emergencies during conscious sedation

Use interpersonal skills to relate to people from a range of social cultural and ethnic backgrounds and physical and mental abilities

Use literacy skills to

read and implement WHS policy and procedures infection control guidelines and procedures and other dental practiceorganisation policies and procedures

select and apply the procedures to perform a range of tasks

follow sequenced written instructions

accurately and legibly record client details

Use oral communication skills language competence required to fulfil the job role as specified by the dental practiceorganisation including skills in

negotiation

asking questions

active listening

asking for clarification from client andor carer

acknowledging and responding to a range of views

Use problem solving skills including to

use available resources

prioritise tasks

select and prepare instruments and equipment as directed by the operator

Work with others and empathise with client 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

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 playsimulation

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:

Escort may include but is not limited to:

Charts andrecords may include but are not limited to:

Equipment for the delivery of inhalation sedation may include but are not limited to:

Equipment used for the delivery of intravenous sedation

Appropriate safety equipment for use in intravenous sedation in dentistry may include but is not limited to:

Personal protective equipment may include:

Post operative care may include: