Unit of competency Outline
Date retreived
23/07/2026 4:45 AM AWST
23/07/2026 4:45 AM AWST
Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.
Prepare to expose a prescribed dental radiographic image
Prepare to expose a prescribed dental radiographic image
Unit of competency
National Code
HLTDA411D
HLTDA411D
State Code
WD112
WD112
TGA Status
Replaced
Replaced
DTWD Status
Replaced
Replaced
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
24/08/2012
Field of Education
060799 - Dental Studies, N.e.c.
Original Release Date
24/08/2012
Nominal Hours
80
Description
DescriptorThis unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to interpret a prescribed request for a dental radiographic image. It also includes the preparation of the client for dental radiography and the selection of equipment requirementsAll procedures are carried out in accordance with work health and safety (WHS) policies and procedures, current infection control guidelines, Australian and New Zealand Standards for maintaining infection control and the policies and procedures of the dental practice or organisationAll tasks are carried out in accordance with state or territory legislative requirements
Notes
Elements and 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
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
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
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
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
Replaces
| State Code | National Code | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| D5856 | HLTDA411C | Prepare to expose a prescribed dental radiographic image | Unit of competency |
Replaced By
| State Code | National Code | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| AWA44 | HLTDEN008 | Prepare to expose a prescribed dental radiographic image | Unit of competency |
| State Code | National Code | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| J092 | HLT43012 | Certificate IV in Dental Assisting | Qualification |