Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 9:39 PM AWST

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Apply fluoride varnish

Apply fluoride varnish

Unit of competency
National Code
HLTOHC011
State Code
ODI59
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
3.00
Current Release Date
25/11/2022
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
29/10/2021
Field of Education
060703 - Dental Assisting
Original Release Date
29/10/2021
Nominal Hours
30
Description
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required by practitioners and dental assistants typically working in rural, remote and isolated areas or facilities that have knowledge and experience in oral health care, to apply fluoride varnish in line with prescribed treatment as outlined in an individualised oral health care plan and in accordance with relevant jurisdictional, legislative and regulatory requirements.The unit applies to dental assistants, registered Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander health practitioners, registered nurses and registered enrolled nurses in primary health care settings in rural, remote and isolated areas where the work roles may require the application of fluoride varnish. The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards for maintaining infection control, and industry codes of practice.No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Prepare for the application of fluoride varnish.
  • 1.1. Check scope of own work role to ensure it includes application of fluoride varnish as advised by an authorised oral health practitioner in an individualised oral health care plan.
  • 1.2. Confirm the patient oral health care plan, developed by an oral health practitioner, specifically includes the application of fluoride varnish and that there are no contraindications to this procedure.
  • 1.3. Explain fluoride varnish application procedure to patient and family or carer and check their understanding of the benefits of fluoride varnish, need for regular applications, and the risks associated with fluoride varnish.
  • 1.4. Explain the advantages and disadvantages of fluoride varnish over other procedures.
  • 1.5. Confirm patient consent.
  • 1.6. Prepare fluoride varnish kit and personal protective equipment (PPE) as required by patient, practitioner and self.
2. Apply fluoride varnish to teeth.
  • 2.1. Position the patient for safety and comfort.
  • 2.2. Use PPE in accordance with infection control policies and procedures throughout procedure.
  • 2.3. Prepare teeth for fluoride varnish application in accordance with product instructions and application protocols.
  • 2.4. Dispense appropriate amount of fluoride varnish.
  • 2.5. Apply fluoride varnish in correct manner with applicator to teeth as recommended in the oral health care plan.
3. Provide information to patient and family or carer about post-application advice and follow up requirements.
  • 3.1. Advise patient, family or carer of the importance of following instructions and recommended guidelines for eating, drinking fluids and brushing and cleaning teeth following fluoride varnish application.
  • 3.2. Inform patient and family or carer of any expected short-term changes in tooth appearance or sensation, including colour, feel or taste.
  • 3.3. Provide post-application information to patient and family or carer in both verbal and written or picture formats as required by their individual needs or preferences.
  • 3.4. Ensure patient and family or carer understand oral health practitioner’s recommended schedule for ongoing application in line with their individualised oral health care plan.
4. Record and document information about the application.
  • 4.1. Record and document details of the application undertaken, information provided and any concerns arising during contact with patient and family or carer.
  • 4.2. Use relevant technology to complete documentation according to organisational policies and procedures.
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
AVA10 HLTOHC006 Apply fluoride varnish Unit of competency