Elements and Performance Criteria

Treatment may include
· monitor vital signs
· management of shock
· checking and maintaining an airway
· application of spinal immobilisation techniques
· applying resuscitation techniques
· utilisation of oxygen
· managing wounds
· managing fractures
· use of life saving devices
· giving fluids orally
· use of bandages

Equipment may include
· oxygen resuscitation
· defibrillation
· first aid kit
· stretchers
· spinal immobilisation collards
· spinal immobilisation frames/devices
· fracture immobilisation devices
· stokes litter

Assessment may include
· environmental considerations
· casualty triage
· primary survey
· vital signs survey
· secondary survey (head to toe examination)
· evacuation procedures
· helicopter access
· nearest land/wharf based access

Moving a casualty may include
· individually
· as a member of a team

Management plan may include
· written
· protocols
· verbal
· transmitted

Resources may include
· equipment
· personnel

Critical aspects of evidence
It is essential for this unit that competence be demonstrated in the practical demonstration of emergency care skills including:
· maintaining universal hygiene precautions
· accurate documentation
· observation and assessment skills
· correct use of life saving equipment
· appropriate management techniques for emergency encountered

Interdependent assessment of units
Pre-requisite units: PUAEME001A Provide emergency care
Co-requisite units: Nil

Underpinning knowledge
· applying resuscitation techniques
· casualty assessment
· casualty management
· crush injury syndrome
· contraindications
· wound management
· basic toxicology
· environmental exposure
· spinal injuries
· head injuries
· shock: absolute
· hypovolaemic
· relative
· legal and ethical issues in pre-hospital care
· anatomy and physiology
· haemorrhage
· cardiovascular emergencies
· hypoxia
· triage
· documentation
· communicate with casualties
· remain calm under pressure
· knowledge of current practices and procedures in emergency care

Underpinning skills
· communicate verbally with casualties and others
· provide reports to paramedical personnel
· work with others in a team situation
· remain calm under pressure
· assess casualty

Resource implications
Access to first aid equipment used in general operations is essential
Access may also be required to shore based transport, an ambulance or helicopter, depending on the context.

Consistency of performance
Evidence should be gathered over a period of time in a range of actual or simulated workplace environments

Context of assessment
A real life incident, exercise or simulation, or a series of tasks are required to demonstrate competence in this unit. This may involve setting scenarios to be completed either individually or as a member of a team or as part of an emergency exercise. Written or verbal questions may be used as supporting evidence.