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 types of pathology collections and locations of collection sites

Basic medical terminology used in a clinical laboratory

Client care in relation to the range of specialised tests

Correct storage methods for specialised test specimens and fixatives

General knowledge of pathology laboratories eg various departments and specialised tests performed

Identification of clinical risks and response procedures in relation to the range of specialised tests

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

Range of specialised tests and appropriate collection conditions

Understanding of special test requested and any critical requirements

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 standard and additional precautions

Comply with organisation policies and procedures including OHS infection control etc

Demonstrate correct techniques for safe collection of a range of pathology specimens excluding blood for specialised testing

Demonstrate correct techniques for safe collection of pathology specimens from paediatrics and neonates

Demonstrate knowledge of pretest criteria for the range of specialised tests

Exhibit an appropriate level of care reflecting courtesy responsiveness and helpfulness

Follow relevant occupational health and safety procedures

Maintain client confidentiality

Operate applicable information system

Perform pathology collections for specialised tests

Provide clear explanation of intended procedure and obtain consent

Recognise boundaries of responsibilities and ability to refer problems to supervisor pathologist scientist or other appropriate health professional

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

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

Use oral communication skills and language competence required to fulfil job role 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

Use problem solving skills required including ability to use available resources and apply solutions to a wide range of nonroutine and complex problems

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 includes reading and interpreting requests for pathology specimens completing appropriate clinical and other documentation and comprehension of complex and relevant policies and procedures

Use time management strategies to set priorities

Work cooperatively in a team environment and unsupervised

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

Method of assessment may include

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

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 supervision

Interviewing and questioning

Computeraided assessment

Formal appraisal systems

Staffclient feedback

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 assessed independently however holistic assessment practice with other pathology collection units of competency is encouraged

Pathology request may:

Clients may include:

Organisation policy and procedures may relate to:

Pre-test criteria may include:

Equipment and disposables may include:

Specialised tests may include:

Personal protective equipment includes:

Infection control procedures may include:

Waste may include:

Documentation may include:

Appropriate staff may include:

Venues for collection may include:

Correct procedures for storage of specimens may include: