Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to provide essential first aid for animals by recognising and responding to an emergency using basic first aid measures. The first aider is not expected to deal with complex casualties or incidents, but to provide an initial response where first aid is required.
This unit is applicable to new entrants to the animal care and management industry. Animal care may occur in a wide variety of workplaces, including retail pet stores, kennels and catteries, shelters, veterinary practices, zoos, animal research facilities and others.
This unit applies to individuals who work under general supervision and exercise limited autonomy. They undertake defined activities and work in a structured context.
No occupational licensing, legislative or certification requirements are known to 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. Assess the situation | 1.1 Recognise emergency situation 1.2 Identify physical hazards to self, bystanders, the public and the animal 1.3 Take action to minimise the immediate risk to self, bystanders, the public and the animal 1.4 Use personal protective equipment and safe working practices according to WHS at all times when handling animals 1.5 Assess physical condition and vital signs of the animal |
2. Provide basic first aid to animals | 2.1 Reassure animal and make comfortable using available resources 2.2 Handle animal safely and humanely to minimise pain and further injuries 2.3 Provide basic first aid care 2.4 Seek first aid assistance from others as appropriate and required 2.5 Record treatment and any additional information on the animal |
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 |
Oral communication | Warn bystanders of risks in an appropriate manner |
Get the work done | Maintain the high standards of hygiene to reduce risk of infection and cross-infection Problem-solve issues with first aid calmly and as they occur |
Sectors
General Animal Studies (GAS)