Unit of Competency Mapping – Information for Teachers/Assessors – Information for Learners

MSL973007 Mapping and Delivery Guide
Perform microscopic examination

Version 1.0
Issue Date: March 2024


Qualification -
Unit of Competency MSL973007 - Perform microscopic examination
Description
Employability Skills
Learning Outcomes and Application This unit of competency covers the ability to set up a light microscope for optimum resolution, to prepare routine samples and to observe, identify and report sample characteristics. This unit of competency is applicable to laboratory or technical assistants in all industry sectors. The unit of competency covers limited interpretation and analysis of results. Troubleshooting of equipment and procedures is not required.While no specific licensing or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication, laboratory operations are governed by relevant legislation, regulations and/or external accreditation requirements. Local requirements should be checked.
Duration and Setting X weeks, nominally xx hours, delivered in a classroom/online/blended learning setting.

Judgement of competence must be based on holistic assessment of the evidence. Assessment methods must confirm consistency of performance over time, rather than a single assessment event.

This unit of competency is to be assessed in the workplace or a simulated workplace environment. A simulated workplace environment must reflect realistic operational workplace conditions that cover all aspects of workplace performance, including the environment, task skills, task management skills, contingency management skills and job role environment skills.

Foundation skills are integral to competent performance of the unit and should not be assessed separately.

Assessment processes and techniques must be appropriate to the language, literacy and numeracy requirements of the work being performed and the needs of the candidate.

Knowledge evidence may be collected concurrently with performance evidence or through an independent process, such as workbooks, written assessments or interviews (provided a record is kept in each case).

This unit of competency may be assessed with:

MSL922001 Record and present data

MSL933002 Contribute to the achievement of quality objectives

MSL943002 Participate in laboratory or field workplace safety

MSL953001 Receive and prepare samples for testing

Holistic assessment methods include:

review of data records prepared by the candidate, such as counts, observations and results

feedback from supervisors and peers about adherence to workplace procedures and sample preparation/examination methods

observation of the candidate performing microscopic examinations

oral/written questions about workplace procedures covering safe preparation and examination of samples.

Access is required to instruments, equipment, materials, workplace documentation, procedures and specifications associated with this unit, including, but not limited to:

a standard laboratory equipped with appropriate equipment, including light microscopes and samples

workplace procedures, standard methods and materials

equipment, such as glass slides, counting chambers (e.g. haemocytometer), optical graticules and stage micrometers, and tissue culture flasks

a light microscope, such as:

bright field illumination microscope up to 1000 x magnification

stereomicroscopes and dissection microscopes

compound microscope

phase contrast microscope

inverted microscope.

Assessors must satisfy the assessor competency requirements that are in place at the time of the assessment as set by the VET regulator.

The assessor must demonstrate both technical competence and currency.

Technical competence can be demonstrated through:

relevant VET or other qualification/Statement of Attainment AND/OR

relevant workplace experience.

Currency can be demonstrated through:

performing the competency being assessed as part of current employment OR

having consulted with a laboratory about performing the competency being assessed within the last twelve months.

Prerequisites/co-requisites
Competency Field Testing
Development and validation strategy and guide for assessors and learners Student Learning Resources Handouts
Activities
Slides
PPT
Assessment 1 Assessment 2 Assessment 3 Assessment 4
Elements of Competency Performance Criteria              
Element: Interpret test requirements
  • Review test request to identify samples to be tested, test method and equipment involved
  • Identify hazards associated with the sample, preparation methods and equipment, and implement workplace control measures
       
Element: Set up work area for preparation and examination of samples
  • Collect equipment and arrange the workspace so that equipment can be used safely and efficiently
  • Perform pre-use and safety checks to ensure equipment is fit for purpose and report faulty or unsafe equipment to appropriate personnel
       
Element: Prepare samples for examination
  • Log and label samples according to workplace procedures to ensure traceability
  • Check suitability of the original and prepared sample for the examination, and report unsuitable samples to appropriate personnel
  • Prepare and store the sample for examination following workplace methods
       
Element: Set up and use a light microscope
  • Set up the light path to optimise resolution
  • Select the appropriate objectives and filter for the sample being examined
  • Ensure that the lenses are clean
  • Adjust settings and alignment of the light path to optimise performance
  • Place sample correctly on the stage
       
Element: Observe, identify and report sample characteristics
  • Recognise and identify significant sample characteristics
  • Perform required calculations accurately
  • Prepare and view control samples and check that results are consistent with expected values
  • Identify and report out-of-specification or atypical results promptly to appropriate personnel
  • Record and report data in accordance with workplace procedures
       
Element: Maintain a safe work environment
  • Ensure safety and minimise cross-contamination through the use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Handle all samples and equipment in accordance with workplace safety protocols
  • Clean up spills using appropriate techniques to protect personnel, work area and environment
  • Minimise generation of waste and environmental impacts
  • Collect and dispose of all wastes safely
  • Report hazards and incidents to designated personnel using workplace procedures
       


Evidence Required

List the assessment methods to be used and the context and resources required for assessment. Copy and paste the relevant sections from the evidence guide below and then re-write these in plain English.

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1

Interpret test requirements

1.1

Review test request to identify samples to be tested, test method and equipment involved

1.2

Identify hazards associated with the sample, preparation methods and equipment, and implement workplace control measures

2

Set up work area for preparation and examination of samples

2.1

Collect equipment and arrange the workspace so that equipment can be used safely and efficiently

2.2

Perform pre-use and safety checks to ensure equipment is fit for purpose and report faulty or unsafe equipment to appropriate personnel

3

Prepare samples for examination

3.1

Log and label samples according to workplace procedures to ensure traceability

3.2

Check suitability of the original and prepared sample for the examination, and report unsuitable samples to appropriate personnel

3.3

Prepare and store the sample for examination following workplace methods

4

Set up and use a light microscope

4.1

Set up the light path to optimise resolution

4.2

Select the appropriate objectives and filter for the sample being examined

4.3

Ensure that the lenses are clean

4.4

Adjust settings and alignment of the light path to optimise performance

4.5

Place sample correctly on the stage

5

Observe, identify and report sample characteristics

5.1

Recognise and identify significant sample characteristics

5.2

Perform required calculations accurately

5.3

Prepare and view control samples and check that results are consistent with expected values

5.4

Identify and report out-of-specification or atypical results promptly to appropriate personnel

5.5

Record and report data in accordance with workplace procedures

6

Maintain a safe work environment

6.1

Ensure safety and minimise cross-contamination through the use of personal protective equipment (PPE)

6.2

Handle all samples and equipment in accordance with workplace safety protocols

6.3

Clean up spills using appropriate techniques to protect personnel, work area and environment

6.4

Minimise generation of waste and environmental impacts

6.5

Collect and dispose of all wastes safely

6.6

Report hazards and incidents to designated personnel using workplace procedures

Evidence of competence in this unit must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria, and include demonstration of:

safely performing microscopic examination of at least three (3) different samples and correctly identifying and reporting the characteristics of each

checking suitability of samples, such as labelling, spillage, spoilage due to incorrect storage and transport conditions, temperature control and suitability for the examination

safely preparing routine biological and/or physical samples in accordance with workplace procedures or standard methods

checking the quality of prepared samples, such as:

clean and scratch-free microscope slides to reduce artefacts

preparation according to specified procedure/method

homogeneous suspension of sample

films and smears that have been fixed rapidly

thin films with a monolayer of cells

appropriate whole mounts for intact organisms

correct sample identification during and after processing

performing pre-use checks of equipment, such as calibration, routine cleaning and maintenance, and use by dates of reagents

setting up a light microscope for optimal resolution

accurately observing, identifying and reporting sample characteristics

performing counts on samples and basic measurements using grids

performing accurate calculations as required by the method, such as:

dilutions

percentage viability

number of cells in original sample after dilution

calculation of cells/ml in a number of squares of a counting chamber

interpreting and recording test results reliably

logging and tracking samples through all steps from sample receipt to completion of the examination and reporting

minimising cross-contamination and contamination of the laboratory and environment

using personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety procedures to maintain personal safety and that of others

handling/storing samples and equipment and collecting/disposing of waste in accordance with workplace procedures.

Must provide evidence that demonstrates knowledge of:

nature of samples, sample preparation methods, methods of examination and associated hazards

parts and functions of a light microscope and steps taken to optimise the resolution of images

importance and appropriate use of controls and certified reference materials

workplace and/or legal traceability requirements

relevant work health and safety (WHS) and environment requirements.


Submission Requirements

List each assessment task's title, type (eg project, observation/demonstration, essay, assignment, checklist) and due date here

Assessment task 1: [title]      Due date:

(add new lines for each of the assessment tasks)


Assessment Tasks

Copy and paste from the following data to produce each assessment task. Write these in plain English and spell out how, when and where the task is to be carried out, under what conditions, and what resources are needed. Include guidelines about how well the candidate has to perform a task for it to be judged satisfactory.

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1

Interpret test requirements

1.1

Review test request to identify samples to be tested, test method and equipment involved

1.2

Identify hazards associated with the sample, preparation methods and equipment, and implement workplace control measures

2

Set up work area for preparation and examination of samples

2.1

Collect equipment and arrange the workspace so that equipment can be used safely and efficiently

2.2

Perform pre-use and safety checks to ensure equipment is fit for purpose and report faulty or unsafe equipment to appropriate personnel

3

Prepare samples for examination

3.1

Log and label samples according to workplace procedures to ensure traceability

3.2

Check suitability of the original and prepared sample for the examination, and report unsuitable samples to appropriate personnel

3.3

Prepare and store the sample for examination following workplace methods

4

Set up and use a light microscope

4.1

Set up the light path to optimise resolution

4.2

Select the appropriate objectives and filter for the sample being examined

4.3

Ensure that the lenses are clean

4.4

Adjust settings and alignment of the light path to optimise performance

4.5

Place sample correctly on the stage

5

Observe, identify and report sample characteristics

5.1

Recognise and identify significant sample characteristics

5.2

Perform required calculations accurately

5.3

Prepare and view control samples and check that results are consistent with expected values

5.4

Identify and report out-of-specification or atypical results promptly to appropriate personnel

5.5

Record and report data in accordance with workplace procedures

6

Maintain a safe work environment

6.1

Ensure safety and minimise cross-contamination through the use of personal protective equipment (PPE)

6.2

Handle all samples and equipment in accordance with workplace safety protocols

6.3

Clean up spills using appropriate techniques to protect personnel, work area and environment

6.4

Minimise generation of waste and environmental impacts

6.5

Collect and dispose of all wastes safely

6.6

Report hazards and incidents to designated personnel using workplace procedures

This field allows for different work environments and conditions that may affect performance. Essential operating conditions that may be present (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) are included.

Standards, codes, procedures and/or workplace requirements

Standards, codes, procedures and/or workplace requirements include the latest version of one or more of:

Australian and international standards covering the requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories, laboratory safety and quality management

national work health and safety (WHS) standards and codes of practice, and national measurement regulations and guidelines

specific codes, guidelines and procedures, such as National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) accreditation requirements, principles of good laboratory practice (GLP), and Australian code of good manufacturing practice for medicinal products (GMP)

workplace documents, such as standard operating procedures (SOPs); quality and equipment manuals; calibration and maintenance schedules; material safety data sheets (MSDS) and safety procedures; material, production and product specifications; production and laboratory schedules; workplace recording and reporting procedures; and waste minimisation and safe disposal procedures

workplace procedures for microscopic examination of samples

Preparation of samples

Preparation of samples includes, but is not limited to, one or more of:

drying and cooling

physical separation, centrifugation, filtration and chemical separation

sub-sampling

labelling

aseptic transfer of specimen

thin film or smear on a slide

fixing of films to minimise cell damage and the production of artefacts

staining of fixed material to illustrate required characteristics

mounting of stained films, sections and whole mounts to ensure long-term preservation

permanent labels for smears, films and sections for presentation, storage and retrieval

selection of diluent to preserve or enhance visibility of the cells to be counted

serial dilution to enable individual cells to be reliably counted

filling a counting chamber in one continuous flow without bubbles or overflow

selection, filling and cover slipping of a clean, dry counting chamber to ensure even distribution of cells during filling

Biological samples

Biological samples include, but are not limited to, one or more of:

smears, impression smears, sections, squashes, films and whole mounts

a monolayer of cells in smears and films

fixed smears for demonstration of bacteria by the methylene blue and Gram staining techniques

blood films stained by a Romanowsky technique to clearly show differentiation of granulocytes

stained sections of animal tissues using regressive haematoxylin and eosin to differentiate cytoplasmic and nuclear detail

differentially stained monocotyledon and dicotyledon stem sections to demonstrate the structure of vascular bundles (xylem, phloem and cambium)

stained whole mounts of helminths

whole mounts, such as liver flukes, planaria and samples of animal faeces to demonstrate ova, cysts and larvae

pond water organisms

onion root tip squash

midstream sample of urine

Physical samples

Physical samples include, but are not limited to, one or more of:

sand

asbestos fibres

coal samples

construction materials for testing

geological specimens

Sample characteristics

Sample characteristics are restricted to what can be viewed by bright light microscopy and include, but are not limited to, one or more of:

shape and size of particles

presence of contamination

colour

consistency and variability

number of cells (e.g. cells in blood or other particulate samples, such as a yeast suspension or pollen grains)

type of cells, percentage of atypical cells, presence/absence of cells, size of cells, viable and non-viable cells and trajectory

presence of stained material, such as starch

colour/staining and morphology

motility

Workplace safety procedures

Workplace safety procedures include, but are not limited to, one or more of:

ergonomic layout, correct illumination and organisation of workbench

use of biohazard containers and laminar flow cabinet

correctly labelling reagents and hazardous materials

use of PPE, such as safety glasses, gloves and coveralls

handling and storing hazardous materials and equipment in accordance with labels, MSDS and manufacturer instructions

regularly cleaning and decontaminating equipment and work areas

WHS and environmental management requirements

WHS and environmental management requirements include:

· complying with WHS and environmental management requirements at all times, which may be imposed through state/territory or federal legislation. These requirements must not be compromised at any time

· applying standard precautions relating to the potentially hazardous nature of samples

· accessing and applying current industry understanding of infection control issued by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) and State and Territory Departments of Health, where relevant

Copy and paste from the following performance criteria to create an observation checklist for each task. When you have finished writing your assessment tool every one of these must have been addressed, preferably several times in a variety of contexts. To ensure this occurs download the assessment matrix for the unit; enter each assessment task as a column header and place check marks against each performance criteria that task addresses.

Observation Checklist

Tasks to be observed according to workplace/college/TAFE policy and procedures, relevant legislation and Codes of Practice Yes No Comments/feedback
Review test request to identify samples to be tested, test method and equipment involved 
Identify hazards associated with the sample, preparation methods and equipment, and implement workplace control measures 
Collect equipment and arrange the workspace so that equipment can be used safely and efficiently 
Perform pre-use and safety checks to ensure equipment is fit for purpose and report faulty or unsafe equipment to appropriate personnel 
Log and label samples according to workplace procedures to ensure traceability 
Check suitability of the original and prepared sample for the examination, and report unsuitable samples to appropriate personnel 
Prepare and store the sample for examination following workplace methods 
Set up the light path to optimise resolution 
Select the appropriate objectives and filter for the sample being examined 
Ensure that the lenses are clean 
Adjust settings and alignment of the light path to optimise performance 
Place sample correctly on the stage 
Recognise and identify significant sample characteristics 
Perform required calculations accurately 
Prepare and view control samples and check that results are consistent with expected values 
Identify and report out-of-specification or atypical results promptly to appropriate personnel 
Record and report data in accordance with workplace procedures 
Ensure safety and minimise cross-contamination through the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) 
Handle all samples and equipment in accordance with workplace safety protocols 
Clean up spills using appropriate techniques to protect personnel, work area and environment 
Minimise generation of waste and environmental impacts 
Collect and dispose of all wastes safely 
Report hazards and incidents to designated personnel using workplace procedures 

Forms

Assessment Cover Sheet

MSL973007 - Perform microscopic examination
Assessment task 1: [title]

Student name:

Student ID:

I declare that the assessment tasks submitted for this unit are my own work.

Student signature:

Result: Competent Not yet competent

Feedback to student

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assessor name:

Signature:

Date:


Assessment Record Sheet

MSL973007 - Perform microscopic examination

Student name:

Student ID:

Assessment task 1: [title] Result: Competent Not yet competent

(add lines for each task)

Feedback to student:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Overall assessment result: Competent Not yet competent

Assessor name:

Signature:

Date:

Student signature:

Date: