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

Barriers to quitting smoking

Basic human anatomy and physiology particularly the brain the lungs and the circulatory system

Basic pharmacology relevant to work being undertaken

Broad characteristics of the chemical constituents in tobacco smoke ie carcinogens mutagens and toxins

Common behavioural triggers associated with smoking

Common symptoms of nicotine withdrawal and their relationship to physical recovery

Evidence based key strategies for smoking cessation including the World Health Organisation Evidencebased Recommendations on the Treatment of Tobacco Dependence and the Australian National Drug Strategy Smoking cessation interventionsReview of evidence and implications for best practice in healthcare settings

Interaction of nicotine with various medications

Internationally accepted definitions of nicotine dependence including the DSMIV Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders th Ed and the WHO International Classification of Disease ICD

Knowledge of context of tobacco use in society

Physiological links between mental illness and nicotine dependence

Process of neuroadaptation to nicotine

Processes of titration of nicotine dose and smoker compensation practices

Short and longterm known health effects of active and passive smoking

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 effective communication and interpersonal skills

Apply in depth knowledge of smoking and its effects and its impact on individuals and the community

Conduct screening for smoking

Locate existing statenationalinternational print and electronic primary sources of evidence relating to assessment and treatment of nicotine dependence

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

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

Context of and specific resources for assessment

This unit may be assessed on the job or through simulation

Consistency in performance should consider the work environment workers role and responsibilities in the workplace

Method of assessment

Assessment may include

Written assignment

Observation

Interview and questioning

Workplace documentation of practice

Related units

This unit is a prerequisite for

HLTPOPC Provide interventions to clients who are nicotine dependent

HLTPOP404C Provide interventions to clients who are nicotine dependent

Taking this unit alone does not qualify one to provide smoking cessation interventions

It is also recommended that this unit be undertaken with

HLTPOPC Assess readiness for and effect behaviour change

HLTPOP402C Assess readiness for and effect behaviour change

Historical, social, political and economic context includes:

Special groups include:

Population based smoking cessation strategies include:

The underpinning values and philosophies of the sector may include:

A commitment to access and equity must be demonstrated by:

Validated methods for assessing nicotine dependence include:

Suitable systems for recording client results include using:

Social, political and economic context of tobacco smoking may include reference to: