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

All steps in the production of a client ECG trace

Anatomy and physiology relevant for safe and accurate ECG monitoring

Attachment locations of all the ECG leads

Calibration procedures for manual ECG machines

Identifies causes of the common trace interference and the appropriate remedies

Obligations with respect to confidentiality of client information

Rationale for routine safety checks that must be performed with each use of the apparatus

Understanding of the need for medical equipment to be listed with TGA and that it must be accompanied by documentary evidence of that listing

Understanding that ECG Apparatus must comply with AS Technical Management Program for Medical Devices which specifies the minimum maintenance program

Understanding that medical equipment must comply with ASNZS Electrical Standard which lists test specifications for medical and electrical equipment and requirements for safety testing of Electrocardiographs

Essential skills

Ability to

Comply with policies and procedures including those of OHS and infection control

Demonstrate all steps that must be taken to ensure equipment is safe

Demonstrate the attachment of all leads to a client

Follow procedure for client identification

Identify an ECG trace that is unsatisfactory for diagnostic purposes

Identify and manage all forms of interference

Manage clients who may have difficulties with this procedure

Manage the known common interferences in the production of an ECG trace

Operate an ECG machine and leads

Produce a good client ECG trace

Provide appropriate level of care reflecting courtesy responsiveness and helpfulness

Reassure and assist clients to feel comfortable and relaxed

Recognise boundaries of responsibilities and refer problems to supervisor

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

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

Relevant ECG equipment and leads

ECG procedure manual

Emergency response procedures

Infection control procedures

Clinical risk assessment policy and procedures

Workplace health and safety guidelines

Other organisation policies and procedures

Duties statements andor job descriptions

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 is to be conducted during workplace application under direct observation of performance

Interviewing and questioning

Computeraided assessment

Staffclient feedback

Supporting statement of supervisors

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 can be delivered and assessed independently however holistic assessment practice with other pathology units of competency is encouraged

An appropriate health professional may include:

ECG trace requests may come from:

ECG machines may be:

Client preparation and ECG recording may need to take into account:

Protective clothing may include:

Venues for electrocardiography may include: