Course overview
In this course, students will develop a working knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and biomedical sciences, as related to cardiorespiratory physiotherapy practice and develop clinical skills of client centred physiotherapy assessment, interpretation and analysis of findings, planning, intervention and evaluation, in the management of conditions in current practice in acute hospital settings. Conditions for which theoretical concepts and biomedical sciences are covered include: cardiovascular diseases (such as ischemic heart disease, heart failure), chronic lung diseases (such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma and cystic fibrosis) acute respiratory conditions (such as pneumonia) and exacerbations of chronic lung diseases, traumatic injuries (such as chest trauma), acute peripheral orthopaedic conditions, and selected acute neurological conditions. This course covers both the physiotherapy and broader medical/surgical management for the above conditions, and other acute illnesses for which physiotherapy is commonly required. Critical illness and respiratory system support is also a key component, with a focus on acute stage rehabilitation. Other knowledge and understanding that is developed to enable safe and effective physiotherapy practice in the acute care setting includes basic pharmacology, medical terminology, occupational health and safety, and ethical and medico-legal requirements. Physiotherapy processes that are applied in the clinical setting include, assessment, clinical reasoning, intervention with a range of techniques, use of outcome measures, implementation of evidence based practice, evaluation, and comprehensive management that includes discharge planning and communication with the broader healthcare team.
Course learning outcomes
- Demonstrate knowledge of functional anatomy and both applied and exercise physiology as relevant to selected pathological cardiorespiratory conditions.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the clinical presentation of acute cardiorespiratory, orthopaedic and neurological conditions in terms of impairment, activity and participation restrictions.
- Demonstrate safe and effective practice of physiotherapy assessments and interventions in the acute care setting
- Accurately interpret physiotherapy assessment findings and use clinical reasoning to inform the planning, modification and progression of interventions in acute care
- Evaluate the efficacy of both physiotherapy interventions (including the use of outcome measures) and students own performance.
- Demonstrate contextual competence as a physiotherapist in the acute care setting with respect to an understanding of the role of both physiotherapy and other health care providers, and the professional, culturally appropriate and ethical behaviours required of entry level physiotherapists