Google Links

Follow the links below to find material targeted to the unit's elements, performance criteria, required skills and knowledge

Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Obtain information about the client
   • Initiate contact with the client
   • Interview client and confirm X-ray request information
   • Review client notes and other relevant documentation (including previous X-rays and exposure factors) to ensure maximum care of client
2. Perform the X-ray examination
   • Explain X-ray procedure to the client in plain language
   • Obtain client's verbal consent to proceed with the examination
   • Position client and equipment for the radiographic procedure, in accordance with a recognised radiographic positioning guide, to produce radiographs of optimal diagnostic value
   • Treat client with care in accordance with OHS guidelines
   • Position client, ensuring their protection from radiation in accordance with radiation safety guidelines
   • Take X-ray exposure safely and correctly
3. Set exposure factors
   • Set exposure factors for the radiographic examination in accordance with an exposure guide specifically compiled for the X-ray machine
   • Ensure exposure factors are set in accordance with radiation safety guidelines
4. Use radiation protection
   • Use appropriate radiation protection during the radiographic examination in accordance with radiation safety guidelines
   • Undertake radiation monitoring in accordance with legislative guidelines
5. Assess film and implement follow up care
   • Assess technical quality of radiographic images
   • Inform client the procedure has been completed
   • Arrange for radiographs to be reviewed (and reported on) by a radiologist and/or medical practitioner
   • Arrange for continuation of treatment in consultation with the client and health staff
   • Ensure client confidentiality is maintained at all times

Required Skills

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 Basic knowledge of the genetic and somatic effects of radiation Basic understanding of the Radiation Safety Act Demonstrated knowledge of skeletal anatomy Methods of minimising radiation exposure to clients staff and the general public Radiographic radiation safety Technical quality of a radiograph and a working knowledge of the factors that contribute to image quality Working knowledge of exposure factors relevant to examinations permitted for particular licence classifications ie kilovoltage peak milliaperage time milliamperage seconds distance filtration beam collimation Working knowledge of anatomy relevant to radiographic examinations permitted for particular licence classifications Working knowledge of client positioning techniques relevant to radiographic examinations permitted for particular licence classifications

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 problem solving skills to use available resources prioritise workload and to communicate effectively in the range of client contact situations Assess the technical quality of a radiograph and apply working knowledge of the factors that contribute to image quality Comply with radiation protection legislative and organisation requirements Conduct Xray examination in accordance with correct radiographic techniques positioning projection exposure factors radiation protection image assessment Correctly position the client relative to the Xray machine and film cassette Determine client requirements and gather all relevant information prior to Xray examination Direct and control the Xray beam and use protective devices Follow radiation monitoring procedures Implement follow up procedures correctly Set exposure factors appropriate for the Xray examination Take into account opportunities to address waste minimisation environmental responsibility and sustainable practice issues including appropriate practices to ensure efficient use of resources Use numeracy skills ranging from the ability to complete basic arithmetic calculations such as addition subtraction multiplication division to recording data Use oral communication skills as 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 organisation requirements Use reading and writing skills as required to fulfil job roles in a safe manner and as specified by organisation at a level of skill that may range from the ability to understand symbols used in OHS signs to reading workplace safety pamphlets and procedure manuals keeping maintenance records and following manufacturer specifications for equipment use and maintenance Use literacy support available in the workplace that may range from having access to support or assistance from radiographer to having no communication supports available

Evidence Required

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 This unit is most appropriately assessed in the workplace or in a simulated workplace setting under the normal range of workplace conditions Assessment may be conducted on one occasion but should include a range of clients reflecting the diverse nature of those for whom service is provided in the workplace context A diversity of assessment tasks is also essential for holistic assessment
Context of and specific resources for assessment	Assessment should replicate workplace conditions as far as possible Resources essential for assessment include Radiation Safety Act Radiation safety and protection plan Xray machine operating manuals Occupational health and safety guidelines Procedures manuals Access to relevant workplace or appropriately simulated environment where assessment can take place
Method of assessment may include	Written examination to assess theoretical and applied knowledge relative to positioning the client choice of exposure factors radiation protection and image quality Onthejob or role play assessment of prescribed skills in particular accurate client positioning directing and controlling the Xray beam setting appropriate exposure factors application of appropriate radiation protection procedures and assessment of technical quality of the radiographic image Observation of work activities Authenticated transcripts of relevant educationtraining courses
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 Xray operation units of competency is encouraged

---

Range Statement

The Range Statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Add any essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts.
Equipment and consumables must include:	Radiographic positioning guide/manual Exposure factor guide Radiation protection devices (lead rubber gowns, aprons, thyroid protectors, gloves and shields) Radiation monitoring devices X-ray machine X-ray cassette and film
Organisation and legislative guidelines may include:	X-ray operator licence (for use of irradiating apparatus for diagnosis) Radiation Safety Act 1999 X-ray machine operating manuals OHS guidelines
Clients may include	All or any persons referred for a diagnostic X-ray examination by a medical practitioner including: Infants Children Adults Pregnant women Persons with physical and intellectual disabilities
Care may include:	Explanation of the X-ray examination Ascertaining whether the person is pregnant and, if so, seek clarification about the radiography from a medical practitioner before proceeding Checking with the client that the information provided on the X-ray request form is correct Protecting the client and others from unnecessary radiation exposure Application of slings/splints Returning the client and radiographs to the referring medical practitioner

---