Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 10:32 AM AWST

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Perform electrocardiography (ECG)

Perform electrocardiography (ECG)

Unit of competency
National Code
HLTCAR001
State Code
AVA49
TGA Status
Replaced
DTWD Status
Transition (Replaced)
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
06/08/2015
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
22/01/2016
Field of Education
030717 - Plant And Machine Operations
Original Release Date
22/01/2016
Nominal Hours
90
Description
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to prepare for and conduct electrocardiography (ECG) procedures, producing traces that are suitable for diagnostic purposes. It does not include interpretation of the ECG.This unit applies to any health worker conducting ECG procedures. ECGs are performed in medical centres, hospitals and cardiologist rooms.The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian/New Zealand standards and industry codes of practice.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Prepare electrocardiography machine for use
  • 1.1 Check cleanliness and settings of ECG machine prior to use in accordance with organisation procedures and infection control requirements
  • 1.2 Prepare ECG leads in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications
2. Prepare for ECG procedure
  • 2.1 Greet client courteously and identify self
  • 2.2 Identify client following organisation and regulatory procedure
  • 2.3 Obtain, interpret and accurately record personal and clinical information in accordance with organisation policies and procedures
  • 2.4 Provide complete and accurate information in easily understood language regarding the ECG procedure to client
  • 2.5 Provide client with the opportunity to ask questions and discuss areas of concern
  • 2.6 Obtain consent following ethical and legal requirements
3. Prepare client for ECG procedure
  • 3.1 Maintain client privacy and dignity throughout procedure
  • 3.2 Follow standard infection control procedures
  • 3.3 Position the client correctly and comfortably as recommended by manufacturer or organisation procedure for different client groups
  • 3.4 Prepare client’s skin for electrode placement in accordance with organisation procedures and manufacturer instructions
  • 3.5 Attach leads in accordance with procedure required and manufacturer’s recommendations, and double check lead placement
  • 3.6 Identify potential client risks and advise supervisor if risk exists
4. Produce an ECG trace
  • 4.1 Produce traceand check trace for diagnostic suitability
  • 4.2 Identify and respond to situations where repeat trace is required
  • 4.3 Forward trace to relevant organisation or medical officer for interpretation using required method of transmission according to organisation procedure
  • 4.4 Record episode details in accordance with organisation procedures
5. Complete ECG process
  • 5.1 Remove ECG leads and electrodes from client maintaining client privacy and ensuring skin integrity
  • 5.2 Provide client with assistance as required, on completion of procedure
  • 5.3 Dispose of waste in accordance with waste management procedures
  • 5.4 Store ECG machine in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
WG838 HLTPAT407D Perform ECG Unit of competency
WD079 HLTCA401D Perform electrocardiography (ECG) Unit of competency
Replaced By
State Code National Code Title Type
OFI04 HLTCAR004 Perform electrocardiography (ECG) Unit of competency