NUR9203

Palliative care nursing practice

(MED)

Ms S Lee

12 points + Second semester + Peninsula (Off campus distributed learning)

Synopsis: The unit prepares student for the role of a specialist palliative care nurse. Topics of content include the philosophical and developmental trends of the hospice and palliative care movement, interdisciplinary team roles and the family, cultural and spiritual aspects of death and dying. Medical, nursing and complementary therapies utilised in the care of patients with terminal illnesses are discussed. Assessment and symptom management strategies in mental status, pain control and other common physical symptoms are explored. Activities in the unit include fieldwork, literature review, and computer conferencing for the study of current research in symptom management and palliative care.

Assessment: Written assignment: 40% + Fieldwork report: 30% + Literature review: 30% + Contribution to computer conferencing activities: 10%