List the assessment methods to be used and the context and resources required for assessment. Copy and paste the relevant sections from the evidence guide below and then re-write these in plain English.
ELEMENT | PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
Elements define the essential outcomes. | The Performance Criteria specify the level of performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the Element. |
1. Assess needs of clients who are nicotine dependent | 1.1 Obtain client history to determine smoking habits in accordance with organisation policy and procedure 1.2 Assess nicotine dependence using a validated method 1.3 Determine smoking cessation treatment based on assessment of client’s level of nicotine dependence, stage of change, client history and personal circumstances and background 1.4 Maintain client records professionally and accurately 1.5 Maintain client confidentiality in all interactions |
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2. Implement interventions | 2.1 Match intervention to client’s personal circumstances and preferences, including relevant health issues, level of dependence and behavioural triggers 2.2 Conduct brief intervention with client according to client needs 2.3 Use motivational interviewing techniques to increase client’s motivation to quit 2.4 Provide intensive counselling according to client’s individual needs, circumstances and background 2.5 Identify clients requiring referral to other health professional or agency and action |
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3. Assist clients in accessing pharmacotherapies for smoking cessation | 3.1 Provide client with information about pharmacotherapies, their benefits and contraindications 3.2 Determine suitability of pharmacotherapies for client 3.3 Provide referral to a medical practitioner for pharmacotherapies 3.4 Determine options for optimal combination of smoking cessation therapies with client |
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4. Monitor client’s progress | 4.1 Arrange and conduct client follow-up 4.2 Assess client’s progress against goals set and interventions conducted and then provide feedback 4.3 Assess risk of relapse 4.4 Provide behavioural interventions and/or pharmacological advice 4.5 Identify clients requiring referral to other health professional or agency and action |
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5. Ensure high standards of professionalism and continuing professional development | 5.1 Maintain knowledge of smoking cessation therapies 5.2 Undertake assessment of work to identify opportunities for improvement and/or development 5.3 Research developments in smoking cessation practices and apply to improve own practice 5.4 Maintain ongoing personal professional development and training in smoking cessation |
The candidate must show evidence of the ability to complete tasks outlined in the elements and performance criteria of this unit, manage tasks and manage contingencies in the context of the job role. There must be demonstrated evidence that the candidate has:
followed correct procedures to provide a range of interventions to at least 3 clients who are nicotine dependent including:
assessing clients nicotine dependence
identifying appropriate intervention for each client
monitoring client progress and providing additional support or referrals.
The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively complete tasks outlined in the elements and performance criteria of this unit, manage tasks and manage contingencies in the context of the work role. This includes knowledge of:
smoking cessation interventions
principles and techniques of brief intervention
contraindications associated with use of nicotine replacement therapies (NRT), including recent cardiac events, unstable angina and pregnancy
evidence-based key strategies for smoking cessation
evidence-based aspects of dosage and duration of use of NRT
intensive counselling techniques suitable for smoking cessation interventions
interaction of nicotine with various medications
interaction of NRT with medications and other drugs, including caffeine, alcohol and insulin
internationally accepted definitions of nicotine dependence
validated nicotine dependence screening methods
motivational interviewing techniques
physiological links between mental illness and nicotine dependence
process of neuro-adaptation to nicotine
processes of titration of nicotine dose and smoker compensation practices
types and use of non-prescription (including NRT) and prescription-only pharmacotherapies
organisation standards, policies and procedures.
Skills must have been demonstrated in the workplace or in a simulated environment that reflects workplace conditions. Where simulation is used, it must reflect real working conditions by modelling industry operating conditions and contingencies as well as using suitable facilities, equipment and resources.
Assessors must satisfy the Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) 2015/AQTF mandatory competency requirements for assessors.