Application
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to prepare for the cerumen removal process, conduct an otoscopy, and remove cerumen safely using curetting only.
This unit applies to audiometrists.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian/New Zealand standards and industry codes of practice.
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENT | PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
Elements define the essential outcomes | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Prepare for cerumen removal | 1.1 Determine client needs through review of client case history and case management plan 1.2 Clearly explain cerumen removal procedure and provide opportunity for client to ask questions 1.3 Gain client consent for extraction procedure 1.4 Set up equipment following standard protocols and infection control guidelines |
2. Conduct otoscopy | 2.1 Follow personal hygiene and infection control procedures 2.2 Conduct otoscopy in a non-threatening manner and produce valid, reliable and accurate results in accordance with relevant policy and procedures 2.3 Identify and respond to any abnormalities of the ear canal 2.4 Identify contra-indications to cerumen removal 2.5 Identify most appropriate method for cerumen removal taking into account results of findings 2.6 Follow cerumen softening procedures to dissolve cerumen if impaction present 2.7 Make referral |
3. Remove cerumen | 3.1 Select appropriately sized speculum as required 3.2 Extract cerumen using a sterilised wax ring and appropriate head light |
4. Follow post-cerumen removal procedures | 4.1 Complete post-cerumen removal otoscopic inspection to review status of ear canal 4.2 Address any post removal requirements using established methods 4.3 Complete accurate treatment documentation following organisational procedures 4.4 Identify the need for referral and refer client to health profession as required |
Evidence of Performance
The candidate must show evidence of the ability to complete tasks outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit, manage tasks and manage contingencies in the context of the job role. There must be evidence that the candidate has:
followed established procedures and protocols to independently remove cerumen for at least 30 clients:
used cerumenolytic agents to soften cerumen, taking into account any client allergies
extracted cerumen by curette
stem any bloodflow
removed residual blood or debris post-cerumen extraction
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively complete tasks outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit, manage tasks and manage contingencies in the context of the work role. This includes knowledge of:
legal and ethical considerations (national and state/territory) for cerumen removal:
duty of care
informed consent
privacy, confidentiality and disclosure
records management
work role boundaries, responsibilities and limitations, indicators for referral
anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology of the outer and middle ear:
medical or post-surgical conditions of the outer and middle ear that alter the appearance and/or function of the external ear canal or tympanic membrane
client positioning for safe and optimal cerumen removal
how to adjust headlamp for optimal view
correct and safe curetting technique
Assessment Conditions
Skills must have been demonstrated in the workplace or in a simulated environment that reflects workplace conditions. The following conditions must be met for this unit:
use of suitable facilities, equipment and resources, including:
sterilisation equipment
otoscope
cerumenolytic agents
means of disposing blood products
cerumen extraction equipment
modelling of industry operating conditions, including:
integration of problem solving activities
time constraints for completion of activities
provision of services to general public
Assessors must satisfy the Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) 2015/AQTF mandatory competency requirements for assessors
Foundation Skills
The Foundation Skills describe those required skills (language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills) that are essential to performance. |
Foundation skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency. |