Elements and Performance Criteria

Stock may include but is not limited to:
Linen
Food service requisites
Cleaning agents
Linen
General supplies
Consumables
Sterile stock
Stationery
Equipment
Medical gases
Maintenance requisites
Other supplies

Stock ordering procedures may include but is not limited to:
Written
Verbal
Electronic

Records may include but are not limited to:
Manual
Electronic

Store type and location may include:
Ward or department
Clinic or professional rooms
Aged care facility
Small store
A subsidiary store to a main store or external supplier's store
Food store
Laboratory store

Ward or departmental storage may include but is not limited to:
Specified storage areas eg stationary cupboard
Linen storage or kitchen area including refrigerator

Critical aspects of assessment:
Work carried out in accordance with organisational procedures and OHS policy and procedures
Identification and selection of correct stores or stock item
Identification of expiry dates and storage conditions for perishable goods
Maintenance of stock control documentation
Effective communication and interaction with colleagues, healthcare practitioners, patients/clients and visitors

Relationship with other units:
This unit can be delivered and assessed independently, however holistic assessment practice with other general health services units of competency is encouraged.

Essential knowledge required includes:
Organisational procedures, relevant OHS legislation and infection control procedures in relation to the handling and storage of items
Basic hygiene and the importance of maintaining a clean working environment
Personal hygiene and the use of protective clothing
Principles and procedures of routine stock control and maintenance
Purpose of expiry dates on perishable stock
Storage requirements and the rationale for stock rotation
Basic arithmetic symbols and processes

Essential skills required include:
Procedures for ordering stock and stores
Appropriate method of disposal of outdated or unwanted stock or stores
Safe handling of items stored
Input and access of data relating to stock control
Ability to report to supervisor discrepancies/variations and issues outside the scope of practice
Receive and transfer information
Communicate effectively within the workplace
Recognise and adapt to cultural differences in the workplace, including modes of behaviour and interactions among staff and others
Use technology as required to work safely and competently
Numeracy skills - the ability to complete basic arithmetic calculations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division and recording numbers
Reading and writing skills - literacy competence required to fulfil job roles in a safe manner and as specified by organisation. The level of skill may range from the ability to understand symbols used in OHS signs, to reading workplace safety pamphlets or procedure manuals, and reading labels. Literacy support available in the workplace may range from having access to support or assistance from expert/mentor/supervisor, to having no communication supports available. Literacy may be required in English or a community language depending on the language.
Oral communication skills - language competence required to fulfil job roles in a safe manner and as specified by organisation. Assessors should look for skills in asking questions, providing clear information, listening to and understanding workplace instructions, and clarifying workplace instructions when necessary. The organisation may require competence in English or a community language, depending on client group.

Resource implications
Resource requirements include all the relevant resources commonly provided in the health service setting. Specific tools may include:
Relevant policies and procedures manuals
Organisation's mission statement, strategic and business plan
Other documentation relevant to the work context such as:
Organisational charts
Floor plans
Instructions for the use of equipment
Specific instructions for staff

Method of assessment
Assessment may include:
Observation of performance
Written tasks
Interviewing and questioning
Formal appraisal systems
Staff/client feedback
Portfolio/CV
Supporting statement of supervisor(s)
Authenticated evidence of relevant work experience and/or formal/informal learning
Case studies and scenarios as a basis for discussion of issues and strategies to contribute to best practice in the work environment

Context of assessment:
This unit is most appropriately assessed in the workplace or in a simulated workplace and under the normal range of work conditions.
Assessment may be conducted on more than one occasion to cover a variety of circumstances to establish consistency.
A diversity of assessment tasks is essential for holistic assessment.