This unit will foster an understanding of the history and epidemiology of mental health in Australia in order to provide a sound basis for the understanding of common mental health disorders. Bias, stigma and prejudice around mental health disorders will be examined in conjunction with exploration of the concept of unconscious bias and implicit association and the impact these phenomena can have on both the patient and their family as well as the quality of care provided. Students will be provided with knowledge of the underpinning pathophysiology and aetiology of common conditions required to effectively and legally assess and manage patients presenting with a mental health disorder or behavioural emergency in the prehospital setting. Additionally, the unit will cover the pharmacotherapies and other forms of treatment and therapies associated with managing these disorders.
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
The assessment tasks focus on developing basic knowledge of mental health disorders and applying these to case-based activities within a regulatory framework. The tests examine fundamental pathophysiology knowledge for paramedic application. The written assessment is a case study where students are given an opportunity to demonstrate how they would approach a patient in a given scenario. The written examination requires students to draw on knowledge developed in multiple streams of the unit to demonstrate knowledge and respond to various cases and scenarios. Exam conditions are used to ensure students develop confidence and immediacy in their application of knowledge.
This unit is not compulsory for any specific course. Depending on the course you study, this unit may be taken as an elective.