Elements and Performance Criteria

The Range of Variables explains the scope and context of the unit of competency allowing for differences between workplaces. The scope of variables chosen for training and assessment requirements will depend on the particular work situation.
Clinical emergencies may include:
· Respiratory emergency
· Cardiac arrhythmias
· Hypovolaemic shock
· Malignant hyperpyrexia
· Anaphylactic shock
· Aspiration
· Metabolic disturbances
· Bronchospasm
· Drug overdose
Patients requiring anaesthetic may include:
· Neonates
· Infants
· Children
· Adolescents
· Adult Elderly
· Male
· Female
· Pregnant women
Emergency equipment may include:
· Equipment for oxygen therapy
· Suction equipment
· Equipment for airway management
· Intravenous access/therapy
· Electro cardiograph monitor
· Defibrillator/cardioverter
· Blood pressure monitors
· Pulse oximeter monitor
· Carbondioxide monitor
· Temperature monitor
· Rapid infusion equipment
Physiological parameters
· Circulation
· Respiration
· Neuromuscular function
· Urine output
Drugs and diltents and fluids may include:
· Drugs relevant to emergency situations in accordance with Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists' Policy Documents
· Water/saline solution
· Glucose
· Crystalloid, colloids and blood products
Equipment may include:
· Standard syringes
· Pre-filled syringes
· Hypodermic needles and drawing up cannula/needles
· Ampoules
· Needleless systems
Providing assistance at the request of the anaesthetist may include:
Siting venous cannula in accordance with state/territory and organisational guidelines ensuing:
· Patient is informed and reassured throughout the procedure
· Individual needs of the patient are checked and action to meet those needs is completed
· Optimum conditions to facilitate access are provided
· Cannulation is completed in an aseptic manner
· Cannula is adequately and safely secured and accessibility provided
· Waste is disposed of in accordance with waste management policies

The Evidence Guide identifies the critical aspects of assessment, and the essential knowledge and skills to be demonstrated to confirm competency in this unit. The Evidence Guide is an integral part of the assessment of competency and it should be read carefully in conjunction with the Range of Variables, elements and performance criteria.
Critical aspects of assessment must include:
· Complies with organisational policies and procedures including those of OHS and infection control, and current standards
· Identification of various emergency conditions
· Ability to respond to emergencies and maintain patient's vital functions
· Understanding and implementation of current techniques for CPR in accordance with Australian Resuscitation Council guidelines
· Recognition of current beliefs regarding rapid defibrillation/cardioversion
Concurrent assessment and relationship with other units:
This unit can be assessed independently, however holistic assessment practice with other health services units of competency is encouraged
Essential knowledge must include:
· Anatomy and physiology relevant to providing assistance in an emergency
· Altered physiology related to emergencies
· Levels of consciousness
· Maintenance of vital functions
· Principles of defibrillation/cardioversion
· Electrical safety requirements
· National legislation and local protocols for the administration of drugs relevant to providing assistance in an emergency
· Drug administration, including routes and equipment used relevant to providing assistance in an emergency
· Types, properties, function, effect of drug groups related to resuscitation in accordance with Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists' Policy Documents
· Knowledge of boundaries of responsibilities and ability to refer problems to supervisor, anaesthetist or other appropriate health professional
Essential skills must include:
· Ability to maintain a patient's vital functions
· Recognition of emergency conditions
· Methods and procedures for dealing with emergencies
· Ability to prepare equipment for the administration of drugs relevant to providing assistance in an emergency
· Ability to perform defibrillation/cardioversion under supervision if directed by medical practitioner
· Reading and writing skills-literacy competence required to fulfil job roles in a safe manner and as specified by the organisation. The level of skill required involves reading and documenting clinical information and understanding complex policy and procedure manuals.
· Oral communication skills-language competence required to fulfil job roles in a safe manner and as specified by the organisation. Assessors should look for skills in asking questions, providing clear information, listening to and understanding workplace instructions, and clarifying workplace instructions when necessary. Effective verbal and non verbal communication skills with a range of internal and external persons are essential. Organisation may require competence in English or a community language, depending on client group
· Numeracy skills may range from the ability to complete basic arithmetic calculations, recording stock levels and statistical information
· Problem solving skills required include an ability to use available resources
· Ability to deal with conflict
· Ability to work with others within a team
· Ability to display empathy with patient and relatives
Resource implications:
· Access to appropriate workplace where assessment can take place
· Simulation of realistic workplace setting for assessment
· Relevant organisational policy, guidelines, procedures and protocols
Method of assessment:
Observation of work activities
Observation of simulation and/or role play
Written tasks
Relevant formal and informal education/training courses
Case studies and scenarios
Interviews/Questioning
Role plays
· Consistency in performance:
It is recommended that assessment or information for assessment will be conducted or gathered over a period of time and cover the normal range of workplace situations
Context of assessment:
This unit will be most appropriately assessed in the workplace or in a simulated workplace and under the normal range of workplace conditions