Modification History
Not applicable.
Unit Descriptor
Descriptor |
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to use an electrocardiograph, and to provide a client's ECG trace under the supervision of an appropriate health professional |
Application of the Unit
Application |
Work performed requires a range of well-developed skills where some discretion and judgment is required. Individuals will take responsibility for their own outputs and limited responsibility for the output of others |
Licensing/Regulatory Information
Not Applicable
Pre-Requisites
Not Applicable
Employability Skills Information
Employability Skills |
This unit contains Employability Skills |
Elements and Performance Criteria Pre-Content
Elements define the essential outcomes of a unit of competency. |
The Performance Criteria specify the level of performance required to demonstrate achievement of the Element. Terms in italics are elaborated in the Range Statement. |
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENT |
PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
1. Prepare electrocardiography (ECG) machine for use |
1.1 Check ECG machine against a checklist before each use for good electrical working order, for cleanliness, calibration, and for correct settings 1.2 Check ECG machine to ensure that it is maintained according to the AS 3551 Technical Management Program for Medical Devices |
2. Prepare client and attach ECG leads |
2.1 Correctly identify, reassure and inform client, regarding the ECG procedure 2.2 Record client information eg name, medical record number, date and time, and whether client has chest pain or is pain free 2.3 Position client for the attachment of leads 2.4 Attach leads according to procedure manual, and correct lead placement is double checked |
3. Produce ECG trace according to the documented procedures |
3.1 Label leads as they are recorded, and record if a filter is used 3.2 Record lead 2 'rhythm strip', being of a length prearranged with the requesting practitioner 3.3 Produce trace eliminating sources of interference and maintaining a straight base line 3.4 Clean client's chest and ECG electrodes on completion of procedure 3.5 Forward trace to cardiologist for reading |
4. Recognise and manage common ECG interference patterns |
4.1 Identify and manage electrical interference 4.2 Identify and manage skeletal muscle tremor 4.3 Identify and manage excessive muscle activity 4.4 Identify and manage a wandering baseline |
Required Skills and Knowledge
REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE |
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:
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Essential skills: Ability to:
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Evidence Guide
EVIDENCE GUIDE |
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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. |
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Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate this competency unit: |
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Context of and specific resources for assessment: |
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Method of assessment may include: |
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Access and equity considerations: |
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Related units: |
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Range Statement
RANGE STATEMENT |
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The Range Statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Add any essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts. |
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An appropriate health professional may include: |
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ECG trace requests may come from: |
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ECG machines may be: |
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Client preparation and ECG recording may need to take into account: |
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Protective clothing may include: |
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Venues for electrocardiography may include: |
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Unit Sector(s)
Not Applicable