Course overview
The aim of this course is to apply evidence based clinical knowledge of pathology and mastery of skills of assessment, analysis of findings, planning, intervention and evaluation required for client centred physiotherapy practice in acute care environments. Implementation of the knowledge (e.g. basic pharmacology, medical terminology, occupational health and safety), and skills required for safe and effective physiotherapy practice in acute care environments.
Experience in the assessment and management of cardiovascular, respiratory, neurological and orthopaedic condition pathologies and other clinical presentations likely to require physiotherapy input in an acute care environment.
Clinical reasoning and the application and interpretation of appropriate assessments (outcome measures, investigations e.g. chest x-ray, monitoring) and treatments.
Knowledge to enable safe and effective physiotherapy practice in the acute care setting.
Implementation of evidence based practice, needs of the older patient, culturally responsive care and communication within interprofessional practice.
Course learning outcomes
- Integrate advanced knowledge of functional anatomy and both applied and exercise physiology as relevant to selected pathological cardiorespiratory condition in the acute care clinical setting.
- Apply knowledge of the clinical presentation of acute cardiorespiratory, orthopaedic and neurological conditions in terms of impairment, activity and participation restrictions in acute care.
- Demonstrate safe and effective practice of physiotherapy assessments and interventions in the acute care setting.
- Accurately interpret physiotherapy assessment findings and use clinical reasoning with a high level of autonomy to inform the planning, modification and progression of interventions in acute care.
- Critically evaluate and reflect on the evidence-base for physiotherapy assessments and interventions in the acute care setting and integrate these reflections into their clinical practice.
- Evaluate the efficacy of both physiotherapy interventions (including the use of outcome measures) and students own performance.
- Demonstrate professional, culturally responsive and ethical behaviour required at entry level physiotherapist in the acute setting that is consistent with Australian Physiotherapy Association's and Physiotherapy Board of Australia's codes, policies and guidelines.