Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to develop, review, update and implement policies for specific practice needs and communicate them to practice personnel to ensure the sound management of the veterinary business.
The unit applies to veterinary nurses who work under the supervision of a registered veterinarian in a veterinary practice. Veterinary nurses who review and implement practice policies need to hold in-depth knowledge of the operations of the veterinary practice.
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. Review, prepare, develop and implement practice policies | 1.1 Collate legislative and other reference materials about veterinary practice from relevant sources 1.2 Consult with colleagues and collect and record directions, concerns and recommendations of practice personnel 1.3 Prepare and write policy materials to suit practice needs 1.4 Review and update current policies to suit practice needs 1.5 Circulate draft policies for staff comment and management approval 1.6 Organise systems and structures for policy implementation in consultation with staff members or specialist advisers |
2. Communicate practice policies to relevant personnel | 2.1 Distribute developed policies to staff and management 2.2 Facilitate training programs in the use of, and adherence to, policies 2.3 Conduct regular reviews to monitor staff adherence to policies and measure training outcomes |
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 | Plan and prepare policy documents that incorporate appropriate language and clear layout, to ensure accessibility to practice staff |
Interact with others | Recognise the importance of building rapport to establish effective working relationships |
Sectors
Veterinary Nursing (VET)