VCW1113 - Non-healing ulcers and pain management

Leader(s): Melinda Brooks

Offered

Parkville First semester 2009 (Off-campus)

Synopsis

This unit explores the complex issues and challenges associated with non-healing wounds. Students will gain an understanding of palliation, management of odour, exudate and pain management for people with fungating, cancerous wounds, radiation ulcers and non-healing chronic wounds.

Objectives

At the completion of this unit students will be able to:

• Demonstrate an understanding of the aetiology and physiology of non-healing wounds;
• Identify the types of wounds that require palliative management;
• Discuss the palliative care and challenges associated with the management of fungating wounds, cancerous wounds, radiation ulcers and non-healing chronic wounds (pressure and arterial ulcers);
• Demonstrate an understanding of the pathophysiology of pain in palliative wound care;
• Demonstrate and understanding of pain assessment techniques in palliative care;
• Identify the treatment modalities for pain and critically appraise their effectiveness.

Assessment

Two minor assignments (30%), major assignment (60%), participation in online tutorials (10%)

Prerequisites

VCW1101, VCW1102, VCW1103

Co-requisites

VCW1104, VCW1105