The application of this unit in the workplace includes applying epidemiological knowledge and methods to assist with a quick assessment of disease outbreak and to identify early control measures to prevent the continued spread of disease. This unit of competency is applicable to preventive medicine personnel. This function is limited to the performance of tasks in accordance with organisational policies and procedures. | |
Not applicable.
ELEMENT | PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
1. Collect epidemiologic data relevant to quick assessment | 1.1 Tasks to support quick assessment are received from person/s leading quick assessment and are clarified as required 1.2 Person/s leading quick assessment are accompanied and provided with relevant information and assistance as required 1.3 Information regarding events leading up to, during or after a disease outbreak occurring is obtained from those involved using appropriate data collection methods 1.4 Environmental measurements and testing to support quick assessment are performed 1.5 Environmental measurements outside of normal reference intervals are repeated to validate measurement information and to enable accurate data on which to base analysis |
2. Participate in epidemiologic quick assessment | 2.1 Epidemiologic data is analysed to identify factors relating to disease outbreak 2.2 Factors relating to disease outbreak are compared to treatment information and to organisation's response to disease outbreak 2.3 Specialist authorities are contacted as required to seek expert advice or opinion to aid assessment of disease |
3. Identify immediate disease control measures | 3.1 Range of control measures are identified which specifically address factors of disease outbreak 3.2 Control measures are communicated to person/s leading quick assessment for review 3.3 Disease control measures are integrated with the environmental health support plan to apply lessons learned to other operating areas and groups 3.4 Control measures outside own limits of authority are referred to commander for resolution |
This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level, required for this unit. |
Required Skills |
communicate appropriately about, consult on and impart knowledge of: causes of disease transmission control measures of disease transmission food storage and distribution standards risk management principles water quality assurance measures establish and maintain administrative systems manage workplace issues and problems prioritise tasking |
Required Knowledge |
administrative systems best use of available resources causes of disease transmission causes of manpower wastage control measures of disease transmission documentation processes relevant to own workplace food storage and distribution standards including the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) approach to food control health surveillance system legal rights and responsibilities organisational policies and procedures pathophysiology of common communicable diseases planning and control systems process of disease risk management principles role and capabilities of other health care providers including environmental health team team leadership management principles time management strategies to set priorities water quality assurance measures |
Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit | Assessment must confirm the ability to: gather relevant information to the outbreak of disease analyse information and make accurate assessments about the factors of disease communicate and work effectively with person/s leading the quick assessment. Consistency in performance Competency should be demonstrated over a minimum of two quick assessment scenarios. |
Context of and specific resources for assessment | Context of assessment Competency should be assessed in a simulated situation or scenario. Specific resources for assessment Access is required to: actual or scenario of outbreak of disease with all supporting information equipment required to perform environmental measurement and testing person who is or who is notionally leading quick assessment. |
The Range Statement relates to the Unit of Competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording in the Performance Criteria is detailed below. | |
Information regarding events leading up to, during or after a disease outbreak may include | Action on first reported case Environmental protection activities Duration of illness Epidemiology of the presenting disease Food sources Group activities Hygiene procedures Number of personnel affected Operating environment Referral action Response to treatment by health personnel Secondary infections Subsequent environmental protection activities Water sources |
Appropriate data collection methods may include | Document search Inspection Interview Requests for information Survey |
Environmental measurements and testing may include | Chemical and biological testing Environmental measurement Food sampling Water quality testing |
Factors relating to disease outbreak may include | Path of disease transmission Proportions of disease spread and infection Time/date of onset Type of disease |
Specialist authorities may include | Environmental health officer Health planning personnel Medical personnel Pathology specialist |
Control measures may include | Controlling dust and aerial contamination Controlling/isolating field waste Educating personnel (prevention/early detection) Immunisation Improving personal hygiene Isolating carriers of disease Preventing overcrowding Providing adequate hygiene facilities Reviewing food handlers hygiene practices Reviewing food handling and storage practices |
Not applicable.
This unit contains employability skills. | |
Pre-requisite Unit/s | Nil |
Not applicable.