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

Anatomy physiology and pathology relevant to the role of the Mortuary Technician undertaking special autopsy techniques

Cleaning techniques

Common infection and other risks associated with autopsy procedures

Modes of infectious disease transmission

Principles of photography

Relevant basic medical terminology

Relevant organisation policies and procedures

WHS in a mortuary

Essential skills

It is critical that the candidate demonstrate the ability 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

Correctly and safely dispose of clinical and other wastes

Correctly label identify and transport tissues

Effectively communicate with medical officer performing autopsy

Follow correct documentation procedures for organ retention specimen recording and for photography

Follow infection control and WHS policy and procedures

Follow organisation waste management practices taking into account opportunities to address waste minimisation environmental responsibility and sustainable practice issues

Follow safe working procedures during autopsies

Operate medical imaging equipment effectively

Perform special autopsy techniques

Remove spine and bone marrow

Remove tissues

Use accurate dissection techniques

Use autopsy equipment correctly and safely

Use body reconstruction and restoration techniques following autopsy

Use correct knife sharpening techniques

Use numeracy skills including the ability to complete basic arithmetic calculations and undertake measurements of volumes and weight

Use oral communication skills required to fulfil job roles in a safe manner and as specified by the organisation including skills in

asking questions

providing clear information

listening to and understanding workplace instructions

clarifying workplace instructions when necessary

using effective verbal and nonverbal communication skills with a range of internal and external persons

Use personal protective equipment correctly

Use reading and writing skills required to fulfil job role in a safe manner and as specified by the organisation at a level of skill of skill that includes

reading workplace policy and procedure manuals

documenting administrative and clinical information

Use problem solving skills required including an ability to use available resources and manage a daily routine

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

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

Where for reasons of safety space or access to equipment and resources assessment takes place away from the workplace the assessment environment should represent workplace conditions as closely as possible

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Access to an autopsy room where assessment can take place

Autopsy equipment

Relevant organisation policy guidelines procedures and protocols

Relevant legislative requirements

Method of assessment

Observation in the work place if possible

Written assignmentsprojects or questioning should be used to assess knowledge

Case study and scenario as a basis for discussion of issues and strategies to contribute to best practice

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 unit

HLTMTD Assist with autopsy

HLTMT304D Assist with autopsy

Consent for tissue removal includes:

Suitability check may include

Personal protective equipment includes

Relevant Standards include

Tissues may include:

External examination must include:

Testsmustinclude:

Andmayinclude:

Retrieval team includes

Relevant equipment and consumable items

Specialist tissues include

Reconstruction and restoration of bodies may include:

Infection Control policy and procedures may include:

Waste may include: