PAR4202

Aeromedical retrieval - Clinical ( 6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Ms Andrea Wyatt and Dr Melinda Truesdale

Offered:
Peninsula First semester 2005 (Day)
Peninsula Second semester 2005 (Day)

Synopsis: This unit will explore the specific modifications to clinical practice required when adapting to the aeromedical environment. This exploration will be based on the affects of altitude on susceptible medical, surgical and traumatic conditions and will emphasise the importance of appropriate in-flight equipment commonly used for patient monitoring and ventilatory and circulatory support. Related clinical management strategies including prediction of potential aeromedical problems so as to ensure the safe and efficient transport of patients will be developed. This unit will be offered as a flexible delivery unit involving on-campus sessions and self-directed learning materials and WebCT

Objectives: By the completion of this unit, the student should be able to: 1. Describe the specific effects of altitude on susceptible medical, surgical and traumatic conditions; 2. Describe the use of pharmacological agents and techniques for administering drugs and fluids necessary to manage common conditions requiring aeromedical transport and treat potential complications that may arise; 3. Demonstrate the ability to plan patient care appropriate to the professional practice level of the student, that incorporates clinical management strategies including prediciton of potential aeromedical problems so as to ensure the safe and efficient transport of the patient; 4. Demonstrate a working knowledge of medical equipment utilised in the care of patients during flight; and 5. Discuss the pivotal role of teamwork in the aeromedical retrieval environment.

Assessment: Examination 60%, 2 Case Studies 40%.

Contact Hours: 76 hours comprising lectures, tutorials, practical sessions and clinical scenarios, self-directed learning materials and WebCT

Prerequisites: The unit is open to ambulance and MICA paramedics, registered nurses and doctors who are employees of public or private aeromedical retrieval providers or with an interest in aeromedical retrieval. Employment with an aeromedical retrieval service is not a prerequisite for this unit. Ambulance participants are required to be qualified ambulance or MICA paramedics with a minimum of 12 months post qualification experience, currently employed by either Rural Ambulance Victoria, Metropolitan Ambulance Service, interstate ambulance service or private aeromedical provider. Registered nurse participants are required to have current registration as a Division 1 nurse or equivalent, with a minimum of 12 months post registration experience. Doctor participants are required to be qualified with current full Medical Practitioner registration in Victoria or equivalent.