Elements and Performance Criteria

The Range Statement 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.

Behaviour and physical symptoms inconsistent with drug use includes:
Evidence of physical illness or injury
Evidence of mental illness
Behaviour inconsistent with drug use history obtained from client

An appropriate environment may be:
Residential service
Client's home

Support services may include:
Herbal remedies
Aromatherapy
Appropriate physical exercise
Provision of vitamin and mineral supplements
Dietary management
Therapeutic massage
Spending time with the client
Relaxation techniques

Harm minimisation strategies include:
Abstinence, controlled drinking, safer sex, safer drug use

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 Statement, Elements and Performance Criteria.
Critical aspects of assessment:
First aid certification or equivalent skills including cardio pulmonary resuscitation (CPR), bandaging, managing toxic substances, managing bleeding, managing broken bones, managing consciousness, managing choking and knowledge of coma positions. Units
Application of relevant organisational and legislative protocols and procedures for the provision of withdrawal services
Ability to work with clients in a manner that ensures personal safety and that of others

Essential knowledge:
Organisational protocols for residential withdrawal and any restrictions on clients eg. Contact with family and friends, curfews
Organisational protocols for home-based withdrawal eg. Home environment supportive of withdrawal outcomes
Signs and symptoms of alcohol and other drugs withdrawal
Stages of withdrawal signs and symptoms
Concurrent medical illnesses which may mimic/mask withdrawal
Responses to the stages of withdrawal eg. Referral to hospital, massage, relaxation tapes
Backup resources eg. Access to medical officer, access to hospital
Strategies for self-protection
Strategies for dealing with aggressive clients
Other agencies and services provided
Recent and relevant information on alcohol and other drugs issues

Essential skills:
A calm and reassuring manner
Conflict resolution
Self-protection

Interdependent assessment of units:

Resource implications:
Resource availability for first aid certification or relevant skills
Access to appropriate workplace environment where assessment can take place
Assessment of this competency will require human resources consistent with those outlined in the Assessment Guidelines

Consistency in performance:
Competence in this unit must be assessed over a period of time in order to ensure consistency of performance over the Range Statement and contexts applicable to the work environment
Consistency in performance should consider the work environment, worker's role and responsibilities in the workplace

Context of assessment:
Competency must be demonstrated in a real work environment
In cases where the learner does not have the opportunity to cover all categories of the Range Statement in the work environment, the remainder should be assessed through realistic simulations, projects, previous relevant experience or oral questioning on "What if?" scenarios
Assessment of this unit of competence will usually include observation of processes and procedures, oral and/or written questioning on Essential knowledge and skills and consideration of required attitudes
Where performance is not directly observed and/or is required to be demonstrated over a "period of time" and/or in a "number of locations", any evidence should be authenticated by colleagues, supervisors, clients or other appropriate persons