Elements and Performance Criteria

This range of variables provides further advice to interpret the scope and context of this unit of competence.

Work is carried out in accordance with relevant organisational policy, legislative requirements, industrial awards and agreements and in-house standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Products include the following:
Formulary drugs and non-formulary drugs eg clinical trial drugs and special access scheme drugs
Products with the required integrity as well as those whose integrity have been compromised, e.g. damaged, contaminated or deteriorated stock
Routine handling products and products requiring special handling, e.g. cytotoxics and its spill management; refrigerated and frozen items, light sensitive materials and flammables

Calculations may be made:
Manually
Using a calculator

Stock ordering may be:
Written
Verbal
Electronic

Records may be recorded:
Manually
Computer based systems
In print form
In an electronic system

Storage conditions may include:
Correct temperature
Humidity
Light
Secured
Ventilated
Ambient
Isolated
Correct storage of hazardous substances

Ward storage may include:
Cupboard
Trolley
Automated medication distribution system
Special storage area, e.g. refrigerator as required for correct storage condition

Critical aspects of assessment required include:
Work is carried out in accordance with relevant organisational policy, legislative requirements, industrial awards and agreements and in-house standard operating procedures (SOPs)
Work is performed in a safe manner
Effective and efficient maintenance of a pharmaceutical imprest/ward stock
Effective communication with internal and external clients
Issues identified outside scope of practice are referred to authorised person

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

Essential knowledge must include:
Knowledge of and the rationale for applicable legislation, organisational policy and in-house standard operating procedures (SOPs)
Knowledge of and rationale of auditing policy of the organisation
Basic hygiene and the importance of maintaining a clean working environment and equipment
Personal hygiene and the use of protective clothing
Principles and procedures of stock control and maintenance
Principles and procedures of maintaining security of pharmaceutical products
Purpose of batch numbering and expiry date on medicines
Common proprietary and generic names
Purpose of drug usage data generated by requisitions to permit collation for an authorised person
Storage requirements and the rationale for different types of product
Identification and handling of products which include:
Formulary drugs and non-formulary drugs eg clinical trial drugs and special access scheme drugs
Products with the required integrity as well as those whose integrity have been compromised, e.g. damaged, contaminated or deteriorated stock
Routine handling products and products requiring special handling, e.g. cytotoxics and its spill management; refrigerated and frozen items, light sensitive materials and flammables
Procedures for dealing with drug alerts and company recalls

Essential skills required must include:
Ability to identify and select correct product with reference to form, dose, strength, brand and quantity
Interpret stock usage on a ward and make suggestions for inventory changes
Input and access of data relating to stock control
Maintain stock control documentation
Communicate and interact appropriately with colleagues, health care practitioners, other clients and patients
Using time management strategies to set priorities
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 may range from the ability to understand symbols used in OHS signs, to reading and complying with workplace procedure manuals, to reading accurately labels and handling stock. The ability to complete accurately documentation is also a key skill. 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.
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. Organisations 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 including percentages, recording and collating data and movements of stock
Problem solving skills required included ability to use available resources

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, legislation and standards
Organisation's mission statement, strategic and business plan
Other documentation relevant to the work context such as:
Organisational charts
Floor plans
Imprest lists
Instructions for the use of equipment
Specific instructions for staff

Method of assessment
Assessment may include:
Observation of work performance
Written tasks
Interview and questioning
Authenticated portfolio/log book
Supporting statement of supervisor(s)
Authenticated evidence of relevant work experience and/or formal/informal learning

Context of assessment:
This unit is most appropriately assessed in the workplace or a simulated workplace environment under the normal range of work conditions.

Assessment should 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.