This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level required for this unit

Essential knowledge

The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively do the task outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit manage the task and manage contingencies in the context of the identified work role

This includes knowledge of

The code of practice for radiation protection in dentistry

procedures for minimising radiation risks to clients self the oral healthcare team and the public

methods for monitoring the adequacy of radiation protection

the organisations quality assurance policy for producing radiographs to a consistent diagnostic standard

the purpose of quality assuring dental radiographs and its relationship to radiation protection

The production properties and interactions of Xrays including

basic knowledge of atomic physics

main features and practical requirements of the Xray tube

the sequence of events that result in the production of Xrays

hazards associated with Xrays including the mechanisms by which Xrays cause damage to human tissues

The biological effects and risks associated with Xrays including

immediate or acute effects

long term or chronic effects

Radiographic appearance of anatomic landmarks normal dentition and associated bony structures

Reasons for processing and technique inaccuracies and methods to minimise errors

Units of radiation measurement

Essential skills

It is critical that the candidate demonstrate the ability to

Apply radiation occupational health and safety policies and procedures to minimise the risk of radiation to the client the operator and others during the exposure of a prescribed dental radiographic image

Correctly prepare clients for dental radiographic imaging procedures

Implement quality assurance measures to ensure production of radiographs to consistent diagnostic standard

In addition the candidate must be able to effectively do the task outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit manage the task and manage contingencies in the context of the identified work role

This includes the ability to

Apply correct dental terminology

Consistently use safe work practices to minimise the risk of transmission of infection

Consistently use correct accessories in dental radiographic techniques

Consistently minimise technical inaccuracies in dental radiographic images

Consistently minimise errors and maintain quality assurance in processing procedures

Select appropriate film variables including

film speed

film size

intensifying screens

Select and use correct techniques including

bisecting angle intraoral

extraoral

paralleling intraoral

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the Performance Criteria Required Skills and Knowledge the Range Statement and the Assessment Guidelines for this Training Package

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate this competency unit

The individual being assessed must provide evidence of specified essential knowledge as well as skills

Observation of workplace performance is essential for assessment of this unit

Consistent compliance with current infection control guidelines Australian Standards and legislative requirements as they relate to the dental assistants specific job role

Consistency of performance should be demonstrated over the required range of workplace situations

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Access to appropriate workplace or simulation of realistic workplace setting where assessment can be conducted

Access to dental radiographic imaging units and resources normally used in the workplace

Relevant dental practiceorganisation policy and procedures manuals such as

incident reporting procedures

infection control guidelines and relevant Australian Standards

OHS policy and procedures

Relevant stateterritory legislation

Manufacturer specifications for dental radiographic units

Radiographic viewing equipment

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

Method of assessment

Observation in the work place is essential Assessment in the workplace must be flexible to allow for client confidentiality and organisation policies

Evidence of essential knowledge and understanding may be provided by

traditional or online computerbased assessment

written assignmentsprojects

Case study and scenario as a basis for discussion of issues and strategies to contribute to best practice

Questioning

Staff andor client feedback

Supporting statement of supervisor

Authenticated evidence of relevant work experience andor formalinformal learning

Access and equity considerations

All workers in the health industry should be aware of access and equity issues in relation to their own area of work

All workers should develop their ability to work in a culturally diverse environment

In recognition of particular health issues facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities workers should be aware of cultural historical and current issues impacting on health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

Assessors and trainers must take into account relevant access and equity issues in particular relating to factors impacting on health of Aboriginal andor Torres Strait Islander clients and communities

Related units

This unit should be assessed in conjunction with the following related units

HLTDAC Prepare to expose a prescribed dental radiographic image

HLTDA411C Prepare to expose a prescribed dental radiographic image

HLTDAC Produce a dental radiographic image

HLTDA412C Produce a dental radiographic image

X ray propertiesmay include but are not limited to:

Safe work practicesmust include:

Units of radiation may include:

Radiation safety for the client includes but is not limited to:

Radiation safety for the operator and others includes but is not limited to:

Geometric characteristics of the image may include:

Quality assurance for processing dental radiographic images may include but are not limited to:

Processing errors may include: