Elements and Performance Criteria

Protection from ionising radiation may include but is not limited to:
Lead apron
Lead lined walls/partition
Safe distance from ionising radiation

Safe work practices include:
Current code of practice for the safe use of radiation in dentistry
Legislative requirements
Dental practice/organisational policy and procedures
Radiographer's Licensing Board requirements

Personal protective wear may include:
Gowns
Gloves
Masks

Processing equipment may include but is not limited to:
Automatic processor
Manual processor
Containers/receptacles
Safe light
Thermometer
Timer
Film processing accessories
Film processing hangers

Solutions may include:
Developer
Fixer

Stock may include but is not limited to:
Intra-oral films
Extra-oral films
Film locating/positioning devices
Barrier sleeves
Chemicals including replenishers
Digital imaging and digital processing

Critical aspects of assessment must include:
Correct preparation of patients for dental radiographic imaging procedures
Application of radiation OHS policy and procedures
Compliance with current NHRMC infection control guidelines, Australian Standards and legislative requirements related to dental assistant's role
Correct handling and storage of radiographic film/s and chemicals
Correct processing, mounting and filing of radiographic films
Correct preparation of patients for dental radiographic imaging procedures
Application of radiation OHS policy and procedures
Compliance with current NHRMC infection control guidelines, Australian Standards and legislative requirements related to dental assistant's role
Correct handling and storage of radiographic film/s and chemicals
Correct processing, mounting and filing of radiographic films.

Concurrent assessment and relationship with other units:
Pre-requisite units of competency are:
HLTDA1A Maintain infection control in dental practice
HLTDA2A Follow the occupational health and safety policies in dental practice
HLTFA1A Apply basic First Aid

This unit is a pre-requisite for:
HLTDA10A Apply the principles of radiationbiology and protection in dental practice
HLTDA11A Prepare to expose a prescribed dental radiographic image
HLTDA12A Produce a dental radiographic image

This unit could be delivered and assessed independently, however holistic assessment practice with other dental assistant units of competency is recommended

Essential knowledge required include:
Fundamental knowledge of the production and biological effects of ionising radiation
Knowledge of the code of practice for radiation hygiene in dentistry
Procedures and methods to minimise radiation exposure for patients and staff
Knowledge of the correct procedures required for both manual and automatic processing of dental radiographs
Knowledge of use, maintenance and safe disposal of radiographic solutions
Reasons for storing films away from ionising radiation
Reasons for use of films prior to expiry dates
Fundamental anatomy of teeth and adjacent structures

Essential skills required include:
Ability to safely and effectively assist the operator during dental radiography
Application of the correct procedure and the correct use of equipment used for processing dental radiographic films
Use of safe work practices to minimise the risk of transmission of infection
Correct procedures for mounting and storing dental radiographic films
Recognition of causes of processing errors and the ability to minimise processing errors
Accurate record keeping and handling of dental radiographic images
Ability to implement remedies for processing faults
Ability to safely handle and dispose of radiographic solutions
Literacy skills to read and follow OHS and infection control procedures, other practice policies and procedures; ability to select and apply the procedures to perform a range of tasks; follow sequenced written instructions; follow manufacturer specifications for the preparation of materials and medicaments

Resource implications:
Access to an appropriate dental surgery or simulation of a realistic workplace setting where assessment can be conducted
Access to equipment and resources normally used in dental practice
Relevant dental practice/organisational policy and procedures manuals such as:
Incident reporting procedures
Infection control guidelines (NHMRC) and relevant Australian Standards
OHS policy and procedures
Waste management procedures
Relevant State and Territory legislation
Manufacturer specifications for the use of relevant equipment, instruments, medicaments and materials
Materials Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)
Competency in this unit should be assessed using all the relevant resources commonly provided in dental practice.

Methods of assessment may include but are not limited to:
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 in a simulated workplace and under the normal range of work conditions.
Assessment should be conducted on more than one occasion to cover a variety of circumstances and to establish consistency.
A diversity of assessment tasks is essential for holistic assessment.