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

This clinical practice unit provides an introduction to the management of clients with complex and or life threatening health problems across the lifespan with a particular focus on the acute care needs of the ageing individual. A case based approach will be utilized to facilitate the integration of advance health assessment skills, evidenced based practice and application of ethical principles in the management of complex nursing situations.

Objectives

On completion of this unit, it is expected that the student will be able to:

1. demonstrate in-depth knowledge of a range of complex health problems experienced by clients throughout the lifespan;
2. understand the nursing application of diagnostic, therapeutic and preventative techniques associated with caring for a person with a complex body system health breakdown;
3. evaluate the clinical application of evidence based research and the ethical principles in the management of complex nursing situations;
4. identify and apply appropriate evidence based nursing interventions when caring for clients with complex wound injuries, and pain management;
5. incorporate culturally relevant and age specific nursing interventions for acutely ill clients across the lifespan;
6. reflect critically on their own actions and on the nature of nursing practice in relation to the management of complex health situations;
7. demonstrate a basic level of competence in caring for clients with a complex health profile drawing upon evidenced based practices, current theoretical and pharmacological knowledge;
8. apply pathophysiological principles to the care of clients with serious and life threatening illness, and
9. demonstrate the use of appropriate communication skills as a member of the healthcare team.

Assessment

Online quizzes - 10%
Case Study / Written Assignment (2500 - 3000 words) - 30%
Examination (2 hours) - 60%
Students must pass the clinical placement to pass this unit
Students must achieve a pass in the final examination to achieve a pass in this unit.

Chief examiner(s)

Ms Karen Missen

Prerequisites

NUR2002, NUR2004, NUR2104