This unit applies to dental assisting work

Pre-requisite units

This unit must be assessed after successful achievement of pre-requisites:

HLTIN301C Comply with infection control policies and procedures

HLTIN302C Process reusable instruments and equipment in health work

HLTWHS300A Contribute to WHS processes

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Interpret the request for the prescribed dental radiographic image

1.1 Interpret the request accurately using appropriate dental terminology

1.2 Assess the request for sufficient information to produce the radiographic image and obtain additional information when necessary

1.3 Determine the appropriate technique from the request

1.4 Select and use appropriate technical variables in accordance with manufacturer specifications and client requirements

2. Refer to previous dental radiographic imaging

2.1 Review previous dental radiographic images for technical quality

2.2 Refer to previous dental radiographic images and dental records for evidence of pre-existing conditions diagnosed by dentist or dental specialist

2.3 Obtain additional information and advice from the dentist or dental specialist when necessary

3. Assess and determine the procedure prior to exposing a dental radiographic image

3.1 Determine the client's ability to comply with instructions

3.2 Review modifications to the standard procedure with the operator prior to implementation

3.3 Obtain additional information and advice from the dentist or dental specialist prior to proceeding with the procedure if required

3.4 Explain the procedureand necessary requirements clearly to the client prior to commencement

3.5 Prepare client prior to producing a dental radiographic image

3.6 Confirm client identity and match to the request

3.7 Obtain consent from the client /carer

4. Select and prepare dental radiographic imaging equipment and accessories appropriate to the procedure

4.1 Select appropriate dental radiographic imaging equipment for the procedure and identify client requirements

4.2 Select and use correctly appropriate accessories for dental radiographic imaging

4.3 Select appropriate technical variables of the dental radiographic imaging equipment

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:

Correctly applied dental terminology

Features, characteristics and movements of a range of dental radiographic equipment

Legal and ethical responsibilities for the safe use of radiation in dentistry

Radiographic appearance of anatomic landmarks, normal dentition and associated bony structures for dental radiograph images

Radiographic appearance of dental anomalies and common oral pathological conditions

Range of dental radiographic imaging techniques and the reasons for selection of each technique

Reasons for processing and technique inaccuracies and methods to minimise errors

Relevant legislation and statutory requirements of consent

Essential skills:

It is critical that the candidate demonstrate the ability to

Consistently prepare different clients across a range of procedures

Correctly operate a range of radiographic imaging equipment across a range of procedures

Consistent apply code of practice for the safe use of radiation in dentistry

In addition, the candidate must be able 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:

Consistently prepare a diverse range of clients for a range of dental radiographic procedures

Consistently use appropriate dental terminology

Consistently use safe work practices to minimise the risk of transmission of infection

Consistently select appropriate film variables including:

film speed

film size

intensifying screens

Consistently select correctly radiographic techniques including:

bisecting angle

paralleling

Consistently deal with conflict

Consistently demonstrate communication skills as required in fulfilling the job role as specified by the dental practice/organisation including negotiation, asking questions, active listening, asking for clarification from client and/or carer, acknowledging and responding to a range of views

Consistently demonstrate interpersonal skills when relating to people from a range of social, cultural and religious backgrounds and physical and mental abilities

Consistently work with others and display empathy with client and relatives

Consistently use problem solving skills required including:

using available resources

selecting and preparing instruments, equipment and materials as directed by the operator

Consistently use problem solving skills required including:

using available resources

prioritising tasks

selecting and preparing instruments and equipment as directed by the operator

Minimise technical inaccuracies in dental radiographic images

Select and apply procedures to perform a range of tasks specific to the dental assistant's job role

Use literacy skills to read and follow directions, policies and procedures including:

infection control policies, guidelines and procedures

WHS policies and procedures

other dental practice/organisation policies and procedures

Use literacy skills required to:

select and apply the procedures to perform a range of tasks

follow sequenced written instructions

record accurately and legibly client details

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

Observation of workplace performance is essential for assessment of this unit

Consistent compliance with infection control guidelines, Australian and New Zealand Standards and legislative requirements as they relate to the dental assistant's specific job role

Consistency of performance should be demonstrated over the required range of workplace situations

Context of and specific resources for assessment:

Where, for reasons of safety, access to equipment and resources and space, assessment takes place away from the workplace, simulations should be used to represent workplace conditions as closely as possible

Resources essential for assessment include:

access to dental radiographic imaging units and resources normally used in the workplace

radiographic viewing equipment

Competency in this unit should be assessed using all the relevant resources commonly provided in dental practice. Specific resources may include:

relevant dental practice/organisation policy and procedures manuals such as:

control guidelines and relevant Australian and New Zealand Standards

WHS policy and procedures

relevant state and territory legislation

manufacturer specifications for dental radiographic units

Method of assessment

Observation in the work place is essential. Assessment in the workplace must be flexible to allow for client confidentiality and organisation policies

Evidence of essential knowledge and understanding may be provided by:

traditional or online (computer-based) assessment

written assignments/projects

Case study and scenario as a basis for discussion of issues and strategies to contribute to best practice

Questioning

Staff and/or client feedback

Supporting statement of supervisor

Authenticated evidence of relevant work experience and/or formal/informal learning

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 and/or Torres Strait Islander clients and communities

Related units:

This unit should be assessed in conjunction with the following related competency units:

HLTDA410C Apply the principles of radiation biology and protection in dental practice

HLTDA412C Produce a dental radiographic image

The Range Statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance.

Interpretation of the requestmay include but is not limited to:

Consultation with dentist or dental specialist for radiographic imaging requirements, techniques and modifications to techniques

Assessment that the request has not been duplicated

Client/carer interview

Appropriate techniques may include:

The bisected angle technique (intraoral)

The paralleling technique(intraoral)

Extra oral

Technical variables may include:

Technical variables pre-determined by manufacturer's specifications for the radiographic unit or selected by the dentist or dental specialist prior to the procedure include:

milliamperage

kilovoltage

tube length

Technical variables selected and used by the dental assistant may include:

horizontal and vertical angulation

film selection and placement

correct assembly of film locating device

positioning of client

use of intensifying screens

Previous dental radiographic images and dental records may include but are not limited to:

Evidence of pre-existing conditions may be provided by records including:

dental history, including previous diagnoses

dental records

location of oral pathology

date of previous image

Evidence of pre-existing conditions may include the radiographic appearance of:

dental caries

periodontal disease

periapical pathology

endodontic procedures

trauma and pathologic conditions of bone and the dentition

dental anomalies

Client's ability to comply with instructionsmay include consideration of:

Age

Disability including mobility and muscle coordination

Neurological disabilities including:

communication and learning difficulties

tremor

cerebral palsy

Pregnancy

Size

Weight

Additional information and advice sought prior to carrying out procedure may include but is not limited to:

Advice on modifications to standard procedures due to physical capabilities and age of client which make obtaining cooperation difficult

Anatomical difficulties:

large tongue

small mouth

tight oral muscles

limited neck movement

Availability of the appropriate equipment, resources and accessories

Special considerations for pregnant clients

Modifications to the standard procedure may include but is not limited to:

Assessment of special needs and age of client

Use of film holders and film locating devices

Explanation of the procedureand necessary requirementsmay include but is not limited to:

Actions/movements of a range of dental radiographic equipment

Client/carer interview

Parent/guardian interview

Removal of jewellery, hearing aids and oral appliances

Safety precautions used to prevent exposure of radiosensitive organs

application of lead apron and thyro-cervical collar

Obtaining consent may include:

Allowing sufficient time to discuss risks and benefits with clients and carers

Conveying complex information clearly

Helping clients understand the effects of treatment or no treatment

Involving the client fully in discussions about treatment procedures

Knowing the types and essentials of valid consent:

written

verbal

implied

Providing full details about the procedures and the risks and benefits

Appropriate accessories may include but are not limited to

Film locating devices

Film holders

Immobilisation equipment

Intensifying machines

Modifications to use of film locating devices

This unit contains Employability Skills