Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to implement and complete imaging routines, including x-rays, ultrasound and endoscopes, according to established industry sequences and practice policies and procedures.
It applies to individuals who work as veterinary nurses, under the supervision of a registered veterinarian or qualified veterinary nurse with radiation operator licence in a veterinary practice. Veterinary nurses who perform imaging routines need to hold and apply specialised knowledge of animal anatomy and physiology.
Legislative and regulatory requirements apply to veterinary nurses but vary according to state/territory jurisdictions. Users must check with the relevant regulatory authority before delivery.
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
Element | Performance Criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Prepare imaging environment | 1.1 Prepare the room and position machine for the required procedure as instructed 1.2 Follow radiation safety and WHS procedures |
2. Prepare imaging equipment | 2.1 Prepare imaging equipment and materials and check for common faults 2.2 Prepare appropriate chemicals and materials or digital system 2.3 Ensure all involved staff prepare and wear personal protective equipment |
3. Implement imaging procedures under the supervision of a veterinary surgeon | 3.1 Measure size and thickness of the area to be imaged and collimate beam and set factors, according to workplace procedures for radiography 3.2 Prepare patient and apply protective and positioning aids, according to workplace procedures 3.3 Produce x-ray image 3.4 Assist with positioning patient for ultrasound or endoscopy 3.5 Monitor patient and record observations 3.6 Recognise and correct common imaging faults 3.7 Return patient to housing or owner |
4. Carry out post-imaging procedures | 4.1 Record and store images and outcomes 4.2 Dispose of used chemicals or debris, according to workplace and environmental procedures 4.3 Maintain adequate fresh processing chemicals or other stock, according to workplace procedures 4.4 Clean and maintain imaging equipment |
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 |
Reading | Interpret imaging technique charts Interpret relevant radiation safety information |
Oral communication | Use industry appropriate language when communicating with team members |
Numeracy | Measure and prepare chemicals and materials accurately Program information for digital imaging |
Get the work done | Address irregularities and contingencies in the context of the work role |
Sectors
Veterinary Nursing (VET)