Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
23/07/2026 11:10 AM AWST

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Perform clinical pathology procedures

Perform clinical pathology procedures

Unit of competency
National Code
ACMVET403
State Code
OAL18
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
11/12/2018
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
29/05/2019
Field of Education
061101 - Veterinary Science
Original Release Date
29/05/2019
Nominal Hours
60
Description
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to collect biological samples and perform pathology procedures, including maintaining the integrity of samples and preparing consignments for diagnostic laboratories.The unit applies to veterinary nurses who work under the supervision of a registered veterinarian in a veterinary practice. Veterinary nurses who perform clinical pathology procedures need to hold and apply specialised knowledge of laboratory procedures and pathology tests.Legislative and regulatory requirements apply to veterinary nurses but vary according to state/territory jurisdictions. Users must check with the relevant regulatory authority before delivery.NOTE: The terms 'occupational health and safety' (OHS) and 'work health and safety' (WHS) generally have the same meaning in the workplace. In jurisdictions where the national model WHS legislation has not been implemented, RTOs must contextualise the unit of competency by referring to current OHS legislative requirements.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Implement pathology procedures
  • 1.1 Clean and maintain pathology equipment according to manufacturer’s instructions
  • 1.2 Prepare patient for sampling procedure according to WHS requirements
  • 1.3 Follow infection control and work health and safety procedures
  • 1.4 Obtain samples as directed and place in labelled containers
  • 1.5 Prepare slides for microscopic examination
  • 1.6 Record patient and sample details
  • 1.7 Facilitate sample transfer to laboratory
  • 1.8 Receive, record and report laboratory test results using industry terminology
2. Perform and record appropriate tests as directed by veterinarian
  • 2.1 Perform haematological and blood chemistry tests using specific laboratory equipment
  • 2.2 Perform practice pathology tests
  • 2.3 Record test results in practice patient record and notify the attending veterinarian
3. Assist with post-mortem examination
  • 3.1 Prepare equipment for post-mortem as instructed
  • 3.2 Label and store pathological samples
  • 3.3 Dispose of post-mortem debris and biological wastes in line with legislative requirements
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
D3940 ACMVET403A Perform clinic pathology procedures Unit of competency
State Code National Code Title Type
BED9 ACM40418 Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing Qualification