Monash University Handbook 2011 Postgraduate - Unit

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

Synopsis

The unit will examine the effect of systemic medication on wound healing. A number of specific drug classes will be described and discussed in relation to wound healing looking especially at current evidence to support theoretical knowledge. Furthermore, medications used to treat wound complications such as infection and pain will be explored.

Students are required to have the minimum computer systems requirements as specified by the Faculty and regular internet access.

Objectives

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

• Discuss common assumptions about medications and wound healing;
• Differentiate between medication, drug, medicine and nutrient and demonstrate an understanding medication classification;
• List the routes of medication administration and discuss the implications for absorption and effectiveness;
• Discuss pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics;
• Demonstrate an understanding of evidence based practice and its relationship to medication and wound healing;
• discuss common assumptions of how a medication may impact on wound healing
• Explore the theoretical rationale and clinical evidence of the impact of the following on wound healing;
1. corticosteroids
2. non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
3. immunomodulating agents
4. cigarette smoking
5. pentoxifylline
• Use a systematic approach to critically appraise the clinical evidence on other agents such as phenytoin, oestrogen, dapsone, colchicine and anticoagulants
• Discuss the role of antibiotics in the management of wound infection;
• Discuss the management of pain associated with wounds, including:
1. types of pain
2. pain assessment
3. pain management using pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods
• Discuss the role of nutritional supplementation in wound healing.

Assessment

Minor assignment (30%), major written assignment (60%), participation in online tutorials (10%)

Chief examiner(s)

Adriana Tiziani

Contact hours

Students are expected to allow 3- 6 hours per week over the semester in study time.

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

Woundcaremedications

Prerequisites

PGW1101, PGW1102, PGW1103, PGW1104, PGW1105 (VCW1101, VCW1102, VCW1103, VCW1104, VCW1105) Pharmacy practice students taking this unit as an elective, will not be required to be enrolled or have completed the co-requisite units.

Prohibitions

VCW1106