Monash University Handbook 2011 Undergraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

The aim of this unit is to develop in students an understanding of the basic principles of pain and wound care management as they relate to nursing, as responsible and appropriate nursing intervention is frequently a determinant of the overall success of therapy. The need for the nurse to develop a broad knowledge base of wound and pain management and therapeutic regimes is considered an essential element of professional clinical practice.

Objectives

At the completion of these modules of study, and with further practice, the student will be able to:

1. explore the physiological aspects that influence wound healing;

2. demonstrate the ability to undertake a comprehensive wound assessment, and to discuss wound characteristics and their relationship to type of dressing product selected;

3. identify the principles of infection control relating to wound care;

4. discuss the impact of appropriate wound assessment and provision of comprehensive wound management in the health care setting;

5. examine the physiological and psychological effects of chronic and acute pain;

6. analyse and develop a framework for the assessment of pain, disability and physical function, including the use of appropriate tools;

7. identify current therapeutic and complementary measures to manage pain in the health care setting; and

8. discuss social and cultural influences on pain and disability and he educational needs of clients in relation to the provision of evidence-based pain management.

Assessment

Module One case study 25%
Module Two case study: 25%
Examination: 50%.

Chief examiner(s)

Ms Beth Jacob