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

Abbreviations commonly used in a clinical laboratory

Basic anatomy and physiology relevant to type of pathology collections

Basic medical terminology used in a clinical laboratory

Boundaries of responsibilities

Client care

Correct storage methods for specimens and fixatives

General knowledge of pathology laboratories eg various departments and tests performed

Obligations with respect to confidentiality of client information and legal and ethical issues

Potential complications of collection procedures

Tests and appropriate times to collect eg drugs last dose

Understanding of test requested and any special requirements protecting the integrity of the specimen

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

Apply basic first aid

Apply standard and additional precautions

Comply with policies and procedures including WHS infection control etc

Demonstrate appropriate care when handling radioactive isotopes

Demonstrate correct techniques for collection of pathology specimens other than blood

Demonstrate knowledge of pretest criteria

Exhibit an appropriate level of care reflecting courtesy responsiveness and helpfulness

Handle sterile jar so as not to contaminate

Maintain client confidentiality

Respond productively to supervision

Take into account opportunities to address waste minimisation environmental responsibility and sustainable practice issues

Use basic computer skills

Use literacy support available in the workplace that may range from having access to support or assistance from expertmentorsupervisor to having no communication supports available

Use numeracy skills that may range from the ability to complete basic arithmetic calculations weighing and measuring requirements to recording data

Use oral communication skills and language competence 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

literacy in English or a community language depending on client group and organisations requirements

Use problem solving skills required including ability to use available resources Use reading and writing skills required to fulfil job roles in a safe manner and as specified by the organisation at a level of skill that may range from the ability to understand symbols used in WHS signs to reading and interpreting requests for pathology specimens and completing appropriate documentation

Use time management strategies to set priorities

Work cooperatively in a team environment and unsupervised some centres only have one staff

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 preferred 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

Method of assessment may include

Observation in the work place

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

Clinical skills involving direct client care are to be assessed initially in a simulated clinical setting laboratory If successful a second assessment may be conducted during workplace application under direct supervision

Formal appraisal systems

Staffclient feedback

PortfolioCV

Supporting statement of supervisors

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

However holistic assessment practice with other pathology units of competency is encouraged

Pathology specimen requests are made by:

Clients may include

Pre-test requirements include:

Pathology specimens other than blood may include:

Protective clothing includes:

Venues for collection may include:

Equipment includes:

Correct storage of specimens may include: