Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
23/07/2026 6:02 PM AWST

Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.

Handle medical specimens

Handle medical specimens

Unit of competency
National Code
HLTHPS005
State Code
AVA38
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
06/08/2015
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
22/01/2016
Field of Education
019909 - Laboratory Technology
Original Release Date
22/01/2016
Nominal Hours
40
Description
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to handle specimens including organising off-site testing and performing certain on-site tests.This unit applies to any health worker handling medical specimens. The scope of this unit does not include any specimen collection.The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian/New Zealand standards and industry codes of practice.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Follow standard procedures for handling specimens
  • 1.1 Apply standard precautions and codes of practice when handling medical specimens
  • 1.2 Select and use equipment and instruments suited to the specimen being handled
  • 1.3 Transfer specimen into appropriate container and seal properly, ensuring correct method of preservation has been used
  • 1.4 Label containers accurately and store specimens in specified conditions
  • 1.5 Follow established procedures in case of adverse incident
2. Organise off-site testing of specimens
  • 2.1 Prepare specimens for transport according to specifications for packaging and transport
  • 2.2 Check that specimen is accompanied by required accurately completed documentation
  • 2.3 Arrange pick-up of specimen, if required, ensuring specimens are in correct location for pick-up
3. Conduct on-site testing of specimens
  • 3.1 Use and maintain equipment in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions
  • 3.2 Conduct tests following practice protocols, standard precautions and industry standards
  • 3.3 Accurately document results and report to appropriate personnel
  • 3.4 Read and recognise significantly abnormal results and report appropriately and in a timely fashion
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
D8327 HLTMAMP409B Handle specimens in a medical practice Unit of competency
State Code National Code Title Type
AWM2 HLT47715 Certificate IV in Medical Practice Assisting Qualification