MGP1012

Aged care psychiatry ( 4 points, SCA Band 3, 0.083 EFTSL)

Leader: Dr G Blashki

Offered:
Clayton First semester 2005 (OCL)

Synopsis: With the population ageing in Australia, acquisition of skills in the detection and management of psychiatric disorders in the aged is increasingly important for general practitioners. This unit aims to provide practical skills of assessment and management for the common clinical presentations of psychiatric illness in the elderly. It will describe the essentials of assessment, diagnosis and management of dementia, depression, anxiety disorders, delusional disorders, late onset schizophrenia, substance abuse and personality disorders as they present in old age.

Objectives: On completion of this unit candidates will: 1. display knowledge and skills in the methods of assessment required for elderly patients; 2. understand the different clinical presentations of psychiatric conditions in the elderly population; 3. appreciate the importance of family and carers in developing a management plan for elderly patients; 4. be familiar with the methods of assessment to accurately diagnose psychiatric conditions in elderly patients; 5. be able to demonstrate knowledge of the common psychotropic medications and their use in elderly patients.

Assessment: Assessment: Journal (P/F)