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

Anatomy and physiology relevant for spirometry measurement

Basic mathsampstatistics relevant for spirometry measurement

Basic pharmacology related to respiratory function relevant for spirometry measurement

Common causes of client non compliance and the appropriate remedies

Complications and contraindications for clients undergoing spirometry measurement

Confidentiality requirements of client information

Conversion of volumes from atmospheric temperature and pressure ATP to body temperature and pressure saturated BTPS

Emergency procedures in the event of a clinical emergency relevant in the performance of a spirometry

Instrument quality control

Principles and validation techniques of spirometry

Protocols for spirometry measurement and conformance to standards

Purpose of spirometry measurement

Recognition of patterns of normalabnormal results related to both respiratory disease and technical factors relevant for spirometry measurement

Relevance of environmental factors eg temperature humidity

Respiratory therapy products eg nebulisers inhalers spacers

Routine maintenance policy and procedures for equipment

Use of reference values relevant for spirometry measurement

Essential skills

It is critical that the candidate demonstrate the ability 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

Communicate with client to elicit maximum cooperation to produce optimal results

Comply with policies and procedures including those of OHS and infection control

Correctly assemble and operate equipment

Deal with conflict

Demonstrate ability to produce a spirometry measurement which accurately reflects the maximal expiratory ventilatory capacity of the client

Demonstrate an ability to communicate effectively with clientscarers in relation to the procedure and manage clientscarers anxiety level

Identify and respond to contraindications before and during test

Identify and respond to technical errors in recording

Identify steps that must be taken to ensure equipment and environment is safe

Perform basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation

Recognise boundaries of responsibilities and refer problems to supervisor or other appropriate health professional

Recognise errors due to client performance and technical faults

Recognise malfunction in respiratory therapy products

Take into account opportunities to address waste minimisation environmental responsibility and sustainable practice issues

Use basic computer skills relevant to spirometry measurement

Use reading and writing skills as required to fulfil job roles in a safe manner and as specified by the organisation at a level of skill that involves reading and documenting clinical information and understanding procedure manuals

Use oral communication skills as required to fulfil job roles in a safe manner and as specified by the organisation including skills in

asking questions

providing clear information

listening to and understanding workplace instructions

clarifying workplace instructions when necessary

effective verbal and non verbal communication skills with a range of internal and external persons

literacy in English or a community language depending on client group and organisation requirements

Use numeracy skills ranging from the ability to complete basic arithmetic calculations recording stock levels and statistical information

Use problem solving skills including an ability to use available resources

Work with others and display empathy with client and relatives

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

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

Where for reasons of safety space or access to equipment and resources assessment takes place away from the workplace the assessment environment should represent workplace conditions as closely as possible

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Access to appropriate workplace where assessment can take place

Relevant organisation policy guidelines procedures and protocols

Method of assessment

Observation of work activities

Written tasks

Relevant formal and informal educationtraining courses

Case studies and scenarios

Interviewsquestioning

Log of assessment with tasks and milestones

Portfolio of tests performed

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 can be delivered and assessed independently however holistic assessment practice with other pathology units of competency is encouraged

Spirometer type may be a self-contained device or may be connected to a computer and may include:

Materials may include:

Performance check must include:

Clients may include:

Background client information may include:

Client details may include:

Contraindications may include:

Additional information may include:

Technically correct must include:

Current standards include:

Clinical emergencies may include:

Authorised person may include: