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

Features and characteristics including range of movements of a range of dental radiographic equipment

Fundamental knowledge of the radiographic appearance of anatomic landmarks normal dentition and associated bony structures for intraoral radiographs

Fundamental knowledge of the radiographic appearance of dental anomalies and common oral pathological conditions

Legislative and ethical responsibilities for the safe use of radiation in dentistry

Range of dental radiographic imaging techniques and the reasons for selection of each technique

Reasons for processing and technique inaccuracies and methods to minimise errors

Relevant legislation and statutory requirements of consent

Essential skills

It is critical that the candidate demonstrate the ability to

Consistently prepare different clients across a range of procedures

Correctly operate a range of radiographic imaging equipment across a range of procedures

Consistently produce high quality dental radiographic images

Consistently apply code of practice for the safe use of radiation in dentistry

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

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

Consistently use problem solving skills required including

prioritising tasks

selecting and preparing instruments and equipment as directed by the operator

using available resources

Deal with conflict

Identify and correctly use terms for technical inaccuracies in dental radiographic images

Minimise technical inaccuracies in dental radiographic images

Operate radiographic unit safely and correctly

Process and maintain quality assurance in exposed dental radiographic film

Select and apply the procedures to perform a range of tasks follow sequenced written instructions record accurately and legibly client details

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

WHS policies and procedures

infection control policies and procedures

Practice policies and procedures

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

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 clientcarer

acknowledging and responding to a range of views

Work with others and an ability to 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 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

Completion of a logbook which registers all radiographs taken in accordance with the licensing requirements of Radiation Health

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

Resources essential for assessment include

access to dental radiographic imaging units and resources normally used in the workplace

radiographic viewing equipment

Competency in this unit should be assessed using all the relevant resources commonly provided in dental practice Specific resources may include

relevant dental practiceorganisation policy and procedures manuals such as

incident reporting procedures

infection control guidelines and relevant Australian and New Zealand Standards

WHS policy and procedures

relevant state and territory legislation

manufacturer specifications for dental radiographic units

Method of assessment

Observation in the work place is essential Assessment in the workplace must be flexible to allow for client confidentiality and organisation policies

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

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 competency units

HLTDAD Apply the principles of radiation biology and protection in dental practice

HLTDA410D Apply the principles of radiation biology and protection in dental practice

HLTDAD Prepare to expose a prescribed dental radiographic image

HLTDA411D Prepare to expose a prescribed dental radiographic image

Radiation safety measuresfor the client may include:

Radiation safety for the operator and others includes but is not limited to:

Appropriate technical variablesmay include:

Appropriate radiographic technique may include:

Client requirements may include but are not limited to consideration of:

Accessories may include but are not limited to:

Processing errors in films may include but are not limited to:

Errors in techniques may include but are not limited to: