Elements and Performance Criteria

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.
Consultation may include:
questioning
visual examination
reviewing client records.
Clients may include:
new or regular clients with routine or special needs
female or male clients
people from a range of social, cultural and ethnic backgrounds and with varying physical and mental abilities.
Indian head massage must include:
shoulders
arms
neck
scalp
face.
Treatment objectives may include:
general feeling of wellbeing, calmness and relaxation for muscles
providing immediate relief of tension and fibrous adhesions, knots and nodules
providing relief from conditions, such as:
tension headaches
neck and shoulder stiffness
stress and anxiety
chronic depression
improved circulation and condition of the skin
nourished scalp, encouraging strong and healthy hair
improved joint mobility in the upper back and shoulders.
Client's relevant medical history must include:
existing medical conditions
previous medical conditions
medications.
Contraindications may include:
spondilytis and other severe bone inflammation
high temperature or fever
acute infectious disease
skin infections on the head, neck or shoulders
recent haemorrhage
recent head, shoulder or neck injury
recent surgery
severe circulatory disorder
heart condition
alcohol or drug abuse
thrombosis or embolism
very high or low blood pressure
dysfunctions of the nervous system
epilepsy
diabetes
recent scar tissue in the massage area
severe bruising, open cuts or abrasions
undiagnosed lumps, bumps or swellings
severe allergies
severe migraine or headaches
scalp infections.
Lifestyle may include:
occupation
dietary and fluid intake
hobbies, interests and means of relaxation
exercise habits
smoking habits
sleep patterns.
Treatment plan may include:
lifestyle details
contraindications
relevant medical history and medications
outcomes of previous treatments
massage routine
product recommendations
recommendations for future treatments.
Environmental conditions may include:
lighting
heating
ventilation
music.
Massage medium may include:
carrier oils, such as:
sweet almond
sesame
coconut
olive.
Massage techniques may include:
petrissage
effleurage
tapotement
hacking
vibration
friction
Marma (pressure points).
Parts of the body may include:
head
neck
shoulders
upper back
arms
hands
primary chakra areas.
Adverse reactions may include:
dizziness
nausea
skin irritation
headache.
Future treatment advice may include:
frequency of future treatments
other related treatments.
Recommended actions and home care may include:
suitable rest period
food and drink intake
stimulants, such as:
alcohol
smoking
contra-actions
hair and scalp care.

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.
Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit
Evidence of the following is essential:
interacting with clients in a polite and friendly manner
planning treatments to meet client needs
safely performing Indian head massage according to the range statement and within workplace service time frames
recognising and managing contraindications and adverse effects
providing treatment and post-treatment advice.
Context of and specific resources for assessment
Assessment must ensure:
that competency is consistently demonstrated over a period of time and observed by the assessor or the technical expert working in partnership with the assessor as described in the Assessment Guidelines
that competency is demonstrated the workplace or a simulated workplace environment in a range of real work situations which may include client interruptions and involvement in other related activities normally expected in the workplace.
Assessment must ensure access to:
an environment, which includes as a minimum:
individual treatment spaces
adjustable massage chair or couch with safe working access for operator and equipment
appropriate supply of small towels
massage medium
appropriate cleaning and disinfection products and equipment
relevant workplace documentation including:
manufacturer's equipment instructions
product instructions
manufacturer safety data sheets
workplace policies and procedures manuals
range of clients seeking Indian head massage treatments.
For further guidance on the use of an appropriate simulated environment, refer to the Assessment Guidelines in this Training Package.
Methods of assessment
A range of assessment methods should be used to assess practical skills and knowledge. The following examples are appropriate for this unit:
direct observation of the learner providing Indian head massage over sufficient time to demonstrate handling of a range of contingencies, including:
consulting clients and planning treatments
performing Indian head massage according to the range statement and within workplace service time frames
providing post-treatment advice
written and oral questioning appropriate to the language and literacy level of the learner, to assess knowledge and understanding of the required skills and knowledge of this unit
completion of self-paced learning materials, including personal reflection and feedback from a trainer or supervisor
third-party reports from experienced beauty therapists in the workplace.

Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended, for example:
SIBBSPA501A Work in a spa therapies framework
SIBBSPA502A Plan spa programs
SIBBSPA503A Provide spa therapies.