BEH3121 - Paramedic management of toxicological and environmental conditions

Upon successful completion of this unit, students should be able to:

1. Describe the epidemiology, population health, pathology and clinical manifestations of conditions associated with toxins and environmental exposure encountered in paramedic practice across the lifespan;
2. Locate and evaluate evidence that informs paramedic clinical practice guidelines used to care for patients with toxicological and environmental conditions;
3. Demonstrate systematic patient assessment and formulation of a statement describing the individual's alteration in health status;
4. Demonstrate the planning and implementation of care and accurately document and communicate the care provided;
5. Demonstrate effective communication and collaboration with patients, families and other members of the multidisciplinary health care team;
6. Evaluate the appropriateness and efficacy of care in relation to the special needs of patients across the lifespan and the needs of patients, family and carers from Indigenous and culturally diverse backgrounds;
7. Relate the pharmacology of drugs and toxins commonly associated with overdose or accidental exposure and antidotes used by paramedics for the management of these conditions;
8. Reflect on the diagnostic reasoning, clinical problem solving and clinical decision making processes that influence the care of patients with toxicological and environmental conditions in order to evaluate and justify management decisions and identify threats to patient safety;
9. Describe the special features and trends in the Australian health system relating to prevention and management of health emergencies related to toxins or environmental exposure.