James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2020

RH5205 - Palliative Care for Health Professionals

Applicants must have completed an AQF level 7 bachelor degree in a relevant health discipline at an Australian University or hold an equivalent international entry level qualification.

Subject Description

This subject will explore key issues relating to design and delivery of Health services within contemporary and future palliative care settings. Students will critically examine current service provision within their own professional field in order to identify areas of strength and opportunities for improvement in service delivery. Core concepts and ethical issues relevant to palliative and end-of-life care provision will be analysed in-depth in order to create new perspectives on their meanings and enhanced application within this setting.

Learning Outcomes

• explore the potential of and challenges within multi-professional working within a palliative care setting
• reflect on the role of personal and professional awareness in balancing client-centred care with self-preservation when working in palliative care settings
• critically evaluate contemporary philosophical and ethical issues relating to palliative and end-of- life care provision and examine the way in which competing perspectives influence client outcomes
• critically examine the evolving landscape of palliative care provision in Australia in order to explore the current and future roles of rehabilitation professionals
• analyse the evidence base regarding the management of specific advanced disease and/or end-of life issues and evaluate its role in shaping professional decision making

Subject Assessment

• Written reflective account on learning - (30%)
• Participation in online discussion topics - (20%)
• Construction of an online learning resource on a palliative care 'hot topic' - (50%)

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Special Assessment Requirements

In order to pass this subject you must successfully meet the pass criteria within each assessment item and achieve a subject total of 50% or greater as well as, demonstrate completion of all compulsory on-line lectures, and participation in online discussion forums and workshops.

Assumed Knowledge:  To enrol in this subject students will require the knowledge and skills commensurate with completion of an undergraduate degree in Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy or Speech Pathology.

Availabilities