Monash University Handbook 2010 Postgraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This unit will provide students with advanced level practice skills in
the areas of Women's Health related to nutrition. New and emerging evidence-based practice in the nutritional issues related to the key life stages of a woman including pregnancy, lactation and menopause will be explored as well as the advanced level management of nutrition related diseases affecting women, for example, polycystic ovarian syndrome, eating disorders, gynecological cancers and osteoporosis. Dietitians from all areas of practice will have the opportunity to examine their current practice and reflect on opportunities for improved practice.

Objectives

On completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. Discuss women's health, key influences, risk factors and determinants and the role of all elements of the health care system;
2. Discuss the key nutritional considerations for the key stages of the women's life cycle (pregnancy, lactation and menopause) and evaluate new and emerging evidence in these areas in relation to practice;
3. Explore current understanding and directions in the nutritional management of prevalent women's health issues and demonstrate application of this new knowledge in practice;
4. Explore the concept of body image, weight and emotional eating and critically evaluate current strategies, programs and government polices addressing these;
5. Critically evaluate professional practice in relation to involvement in nutrition intervention in the area of women's health.

Assessment

Critical analysis (2000 words)(20%)
Case Studies (3000 words)(60%)
Reflective portfolio (20%)

Chief examiner(s)

Ms Claire Palermo

Off-campus attendance requirements

2 x 8 hours lecture/practical residential delivered in block mode + 80
hours of private study (includes pre-reading, research into and preparation of assessment tasks) each semester.