PGC5116 - Geriatric disease state management - 2018

Students completing this unit will develop specialist knowledge and skills in the management of common medical syndromes affecting older people. The unit will focus on pharmacotherapeutics, medication-related problems and the role of pharmacists in the management of older patients with common geriatric syndromes. This unit assumes that students have a pre-existing understanding of the basic principles of medication management and pharmacy practice for older people. For students who have not completed PGC5115 Geriatric Pharmacy Practice, some pre-reading will be provided by the unit coordinator.

After completing this unit, students will be able to:

1. Identify effects of ageing, disease and medications on cognitive function, falls and balance, bone health, bladder and bowel function and pain.
2. Provide evidence based recommendations and interventions to prevent and manage: cognitive disorders, falls, dizziness, osteoporosis, bladder and bowel problems and pain in older people in the context of best evidence,
3. Communicate effectively (oral and written) with patients, carers and other health professionals to complete clinical medication reviews and develop and implement medication management plans.

Case studies and online discussions: 40%

Dementia management plan: 15%

Medication withdrawal plan: 15%

MMR case/report: 15%

Multiple-choice quiz: 15%

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. The unit requires on average 10-12 hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include teacher directed learning, reading time, participation in tutorials or discussion groups, research and preparation for assignments.

See also Unit timetable information

Clinical pharmacy practice