Google Links

Follow the links below to find material targeted to the unit's elements, performance criteria, required skills and knowledge

Elements and Performance Criteria

  1. Elements define the essential outcomes
  2. Obtain and record patient data
  3. Establish priority level of care
  4. Communicate options available to patients or carers

Performance Evidence

The candidate must show evidence of the ability to complete tasks outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit, manage tasks and manage contingencies in the context of the job role. There must be evidence that the candidate has:

• managed 3 patient appointments according to priority including:

- establishing priority level of care for each patient and advancing priority if required

- managing patients expectations regarding waiting times for both emergency and non-emergency care

• recognised and responded to 1 simulated dental emergency.


Knowledge Evidence

The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively complete the tasks outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit, manage the task and manage contingencies in the context of the work role. This includes knowledge of:

• medical complications relevant to the dental triage role including:

- diabetes

- compromised airway

- septicaemia

• dental complications relevant to the dental triage role including:

- dental and or maxillofacial trauma including avulsed teeth

- serious dental infections requiring urgent attention

- significant dental haemorrhage

- systemic progression of dental problems such as compromised airway

• medical problems that may complicate dental management including:

- patients requiring antibiotic cover

- patients requiring steroid cover

- patients who are pregnant

- patients with significant learning or physical disabilities that may affect their ability to wait for treatment

• the special requirements of children with toothache

• oral anatomy and physiology including fundamental knowledge of:

- teeth and periodontal tissues

- structures of the oral cavity

- tooth identification

• dental and medical records and charts including:

- correct dental terminology

- items that constitute a dental record

- notation systems including FDI and charting symbols for tooth surfaces, cavities and other dental problems in accordance with codes and guidelines

- confidentiality of patient records

• effects of ageing upon the oral tissues and the special needs of the older dental patient.