Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives On completion of the subject, students are expected to apply the clinical reasoning process to selected concepts related to pathophysiological and psycho-social phenomena; transfer theoretical concepts using a systemic framework to organise, analyse and synthesise data within a variety of clinical settings; demonstrate various modes of knowing and understanding of breakdown processes and their consequences related to the theme of alteration in the body's protective mechanisms; identify and apply appropriate nursing therapeutics to the health breakdown process; demonstrate an increasing knowledge of therapeutic agents in terms of relevant legislation and safe nursing practice; continue to evaluate self-performance in terms of the delivery of quality nursing care; discuss a variety of complex ethical and legal issues related to caring for persons with an alteration in the body's protective mechanisms.
Synopsis Students examine the theme of alteration in the body's protective mechanisms by exploring concepts in two units. The first is a unit on physical health issues that encompasses the concepts of impaired immunocompetence, impaired wound healing, altered clotting and the child in hospital. The second unit regarding mental health issues covers the concepts of reality testing, psychosis and substance use and abuse. Particular emphasis on psychotherapeutic measures will occur in this unit.
Assessment Assignment: 30% + Examination: 70% + To be credited with a pass or higher grade, a satisfactory level must be achieved in the clinical performance area, including documented mastery of a minimum of five specified skills as listed in the clinical objectives + 80% attendance at laboratory classes + 100% attendance at clinical practice is mandatory