To demonstrate competence for this unit the worker must acquire the essential knowledge and skills described

Essential knowledge

Working knowledge consistent with the elements of competence of the organisations applicable infection control policy and procedures and relevant industry codes of practice which impact on work processes of the specific work unit

The hierarchy of risk control measures from most to least preferred ie elimination engineering controls administrative control and personal protective equipment

Knowledge of infection risks and control measures specific to work area and related work processes

The significance of client confidentiality in relation to infection control

The significance of other management systems and procedures for infection control

Literacy levels and communication skills of work group members and consequent suitable communication techniques

Organisation procedures for monitoring training

Basic understanding of communicable disease transmission

Essential skills

Ability to

Use effective communication and interpersonal skills to explain infection control procedures and their rationale to members of work group to provide feedback on work performance in relation to infection control in order to maintain infection control standards

Use literacy and numeracy skills to

read and interpret workplace documentation relating to infection control policies and procedures

accurately explain procedures to others with a range of language and literacy capabilities

accurately communicate with team and individuals about organisation policy and procedures for infection control

maintain and interpret infection control records

Apply procedures for adopting appropriate infection practices within work unit

Provide appropriate supervision of work group in relation to infection control

Negotiate with the work group in relation to issues such as establishing maintaining and improving infection control work practices

Participate in work planning and management

Manage change processes in relation to improving infection control work practices

Monitor compliance with policy and procedures

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate this competency unit

This unit is most appropriately assessed in the workplace or in a simulated workplace and under the normal range of workplace conditions

Assessment must demonstrate ability to ensure compliance with the health care establishments infection control policy as it relates to specific job roles

Consistency of performance should be demonstrated over the required range of workplace situations

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

Infection control policies and procedures may relate to:

Industry codes of practice may include:

Identified hazards and the outcomes of infection risk assessments may relate to:

Infection control monitoring procedures may include:

Designated personnel may include:

Aggregate infection control information may include: