Psychopharmacology

This subject is not offered in 2014.

In addition to the subject contact hours, students are expected to devote approximately 6 hours a week to this subject.

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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 courses. Students who think their disability will impact on meeting this requirement are encouraged to discuss this matter with the Course Coordinator and the Disability Liaison Unit.

This subject will provide students with the opportunity to expand their knowledge of medications used in psychiatry and to examine the role of the psychiatric nurse in psychopharmacological treatments. The subject allows students to develop clinical skills in relevant assessments and interventions for clients receiving psychiatric medication.

Upon completion of this subject the student should be able to:

• Examine the clinical implications for and side effects of psychotropic medication.
• Examine the skills required to assess a person's reaction to the administration of psychotropic drugs.
• Evaluate the role of the psychiatric nurse in psychopharmacological treatments.
• Develop comprehensive knowledge of psychotropic medications and apply this knowledge by planning appropriate health teaching strategies.

Students must pass the 2 hour examination to achieve a pass in this subject and must achieve an overall aggregate of 50%.

1. Assignment 2,000 words (40%) - Due four (4) weeks after the commencement of the subject
2. Examination 2 hours (60%) - At the end of semester

Usher, K., Foster, K. & Bullock, S. (2009). Psychopharmacology for Health Professionals Elsevier: Australia

Healy, D. (2009). Psychiatric drugs explained (5th ed.). Elsevier, Churchill, Livingstone

Bullock, S. & Manias, E. (2011). Fundamentals of pharmacology (6th ed.).
Australia: Frenchs Forest, NSW: Pearson Education.

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

In addition to the focus on specific psychopharmacology in mental health, this subject will assist you to develop your

• problem-solving skills by involvement in classroom discussions and activities
• analytic skills by your critical appraisal of the literature and development of arguments within the set assignment
• ability to work as a team member by your involvement in discussions and activities with your fellow students
• writing skills by completion of the assessment tasks
• time management skills by planning your work and submitting information by the required deadlines