Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to administer substances and take tissue and fluid samples for clinical trial project research purposes.
The unit applies to individuals who work as junior or assistant level animal technicians working under supervision of a senior or more experienced staff member.
No occupational licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
NOTE: The terms 'occupational health and safety' (OHS) and 'work health and safety' (WHS) generally have the same meaning in the workplace. In jurisdictions where the national model WHS legislation has not been implemented, RTOs must contextualise the unit of competency by referring to current OHS legislative requirements.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Elements | Performance Criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Prepare for non-surgical procedures | 1.1 Verify procedures and sample requirements according to legislative and ethical requirements 1.2 Confirm sample methods 1.3 Calculate dose rates 1.4 Prepare and position required equipment |
2. Prepare animals for procedure | 2.1 Select animals to meet project requirements 2.2 Move animals to testing area and prepare for procedure using techniques to minimise stress and discomfort 2.3 Manage work practices to ensure animals are kept in preparation and procedure areas for minimal time |
3. Administer substances to animals | 3.1 Confirm approved substances and dose rates 3.2 Confirm method of administration of substances 3.3 Evaluate risks associated with preparation and administration of substances, practise emergency procedures and implement as required 3.4 Administer substances to animals 3.5 Monitor animals for adverse reactions |
4. Collect samples from animals | 4.1 Confirm sampling techniques 4.2 Identify hazards in collection process and practise and implement emergency response requirements 4.3 Collect, process, package and store body fluid samples 4.4 Collect tissue samples 4.5 Check samples for suitability and prepare according to laboratory and project protocols |
5. Complete post-procedure duties | 5.1 Return animals to housing, and monitor and respond according to workplace procedures / laboratory schedule 5.2 Update and store animal and project records in the organisational management system 5.3 Clean procedures area and equipment and dispose of waste according to laboratory protocols and industry standards |
Foundation Skills
This section describes those language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills that are essential for performance in this unit of competency but are not explicit in the performance criteria.
Skill | Description |
Writing | Complete workplace documentation in relation to non-surgical procedures |
Oral communication | Listen to clear sequenced instructions by supervisor and ask clarifying questions as required to clarify requirements in relation to sampling techniques and checking samples |
Sectors
Animal Technology (ATE)