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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 of a unit of competency.
  2. The Performance Criteria specify the level of performance required to demonstrate achievement of the Element.
  3. Recognise the special needs of a person requiring a palliative approach to care.
  4. Support person, family or carers using the palliative approach.
  5. Identify and respond to signs of deterioration and the stages of dying.
  6. Care for the person’s body after death and provide support for the family and others.
  7. Provide for own self-care in palliative care role.
  8. Care for the person’s body after death and provide support for the family and others.

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:

undertaken nursing work in accordance with Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia professional practice standards, codes and guidelines

analysed health information and clinical presentation of 1 person to reach an accurate conclusion of possible palliative care planning and nursing interventions in consultation with a registered nurse

provide nursing care using a palliative approach to 1 person in the workplace including performing nursing interventions with the person through the end-of-life stages and professional interactions with the family or carer.


Knowledge Evidence

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

how to identify needs of the person, family or carers during the palliative approach to health care

State/Territory legislation on advance care planning, advance care directives and notification of a death

diverse cultural, religious and spiritual factors underpinning the persons choices at end-of-life

ethical and legal issues related to a palliative care approach including:

decisions regarding advance care directives

conflicts that may occur in relation to personal values and decisions made by or for the person

organ donation

request for autopsy

hydration and nutrition requirements during palliative care and at end-of-life

pain management including:

medication administered using a syringe driver or intima sub-cut lines

common non-pharmaceutical and complementary care

indications and contraindications for use of syringe drivers in administration of pain medication

indications for intima sub cut lines for pain relief, anti-nausea and steroid injections

impact of loss and grief on person, family or carers and staff members

own role and responsibilities, and those of other team members involved in palliative care

relevant organisation policies, procedures, protocols and practices in relation to palliative care

relevant resources available to those requiring grief and bereavement support.