Acute Cardiorespiratory Practice

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2008:

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

This subject is designed to build on existing theoretical knowledge in the areas of acute cardiorespiratory pathophysiology, diagnostic and investigative procedures and physiotherapy techniques used in the management of acute complex patients. Current management issues in the areas of adult, paediatric and neonatal critical care, major surgery and complex medical patients will be covered. Evaluation of current clinical practice and the reliability and validity of cardiorespiratory outcome measures used in the acute care area will be explored. In addition, practical and equipment based skills will be extended, including non-invasive ventilation. Students will have the opportunity to practice these both at the School and in the clinical setting.

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

Generic Skills:

On completion of the subject, students are expected to be able to demonstrate:

• The ability to evaluate and synthesise research and professional literature and apply this information
• A capacity to articulate knowledge and understanding in oral and written presentations at an appropriate level
• Where appropriate, advanced working skills and receptiveness in the use of new technologies
• An appreciation of the ways in which advanced knowledge may equip professionals to offer leadership

Specific Skills:

On completion of the subject, students are expected to be able to demonstrate:

• An advanced understanding of the changing knowledge base in cardiothoracic physiotherapy, and the international context and sensitivities of the area
• Well-developed problem-solving abilities in both the clinical and the theoretical aspects of cardiothoracic
• Descriptions of recent advances in acute respiratory and critical care medicine and cardiothoracic surgery and the current investigative and diagnostic approaches used in these areas
• Opportunities to develop specialised assessment, diagnostic and management skills for the appraisal of patients with acute and complex cardiothoracic pathologies, including neonates, paediatrics and the aged
• Discussion of current approaches for the treatment/management of specific acute and complex conditions.
• Opportunities to investigate methods of evaluation of patient progress and outcome including clinical assessment tools and application of research findings.