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

Air detector function test in detail and air detector performance test

Air detector function operation adjustment and testing

Detailed knowledge of infection control principles as they affect the sterilisation work environment

Detailed knowledge of the processes of maintaining and using tracking systems

Detailed knowledge of the record keeping requirements of ASNZS and organisation policies and procedures

Detailed knowledge of the working of all equipment and machinery used in the sterilisation cycle and support equipment eg boilers and steam reticulation

Load release issues including the variety of acceptable monitoring criteria suitable for load release

Methods used to audit machine performance and report discrepancies

OHS policies guidelines and symbols and there relevance to working in the sterilisation area

Operation monitoring and performance testing of downward displacement steam sterilizers and limitations on types of possible items for sterilization

Relevant stateterritory guidelines for sterilising services

Routine monitoring including

trends in leak rate test results and appropriate action

trends air removal test results and appropriate action

Steam supply requirements including

issues about boiler types and their location

steam piping and steam delivery requirements

testing for steam quality dry saturated steam superheat measurement and management

Standards including ASNZS AS and AS and all relevant infection prevention guidelines especially in relation to the care of reusable medical equipment

The importance of sterilisation technology as a contribution to client safety and the relationship to well maintained reusable medical equipment

The legal responsibilities of health care providers in relation to confidentiality client rights duty of care and implications of negligence

Essential skills

It is critical that the candidate demonstrate the ability to

Accurately complete all documentation

Address OHS infection control and manual handling requirements

Address performance and maintenance requirements of machinery used in cleaning and sterilisation processes

Apply knowledge of the importance of sterilisation technology as a contribution to client safety

Comply with ASNZS AS and ASNZS for sterilisation purposes especially in relation to the care and maintenance of equipment

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 ASNZS and AS to organisation policies and procedures

Apply ASNZS and AS organisation policies and procedures to work practices

Develop sterilizing department policies related to load release

Identify possible sterilizer related causes of wet loads and perform trouble shooting to address occurrences of wet loads

Interpret reports arising from air detector testing

Maintain data and record systems

Take into account opportunities to address waste minimisation environmental responsibility and sustainable practice issues including appropriate practices to ensure efficient use of resources

Undertake routine monitoring including

identify trends in leak rate test results and determine appropriate action

identify trends air removal test results and determine appropriate action

select and use appropriate process challenge devices

Use and monitor low temperature sterilizers peracetic acid and hydrogen peroxide plasma including

loading and operation

physical chemical and biological monitoring

maintenance by operators

liaison with service contractors

Use literacy numeracy and oral communication skills required to fulfil the position in a safe manner as specified by the health care facility

Use methods to audit machine performance

Use problem solving skills the ability to use available resources and prioritise workload

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

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

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

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Assessment must be in workplace and under conditions

Resources essential for assessment include access to

relevant workplace

monitoring and tracking systems

manufacturers guidelines

training records

Australian Standards government and organisation policies and procedures

Method of assessment

Observation in the work place essential

Written assignmentsprojects

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

Questioning

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

Steriliser construction and operation must include:

Investigation of defects and failures may include:

Monitoring and accessory equipment may include:

Quality management documentation must include: