Medical Nutritional Therapy 3

Unit code: HHN6002 | Study level: Postgraduate

Credit points

(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)

Location

VU Sunshine Clinical School

Prerequisites

HHN6001 - Medical Nutritional Therapy 2

(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)

Overview

Dietitians work with clients in several specialised populations. These include, but are not limited to, neonatal and paediatric clients, critically ill patients, athletes and physically demanding professions (e.g. fire service, police and defence force). Within these groups individual nutritional counselling and group education may be utilised to elicit change in dietary intakes for medical or performance related outcomes. This unit will explore some of the specific nutrition and dietetic challenges presenting in these groups. Students will develop skills in specialised aspects of assessment and management of disease and trauma within these groups as well as an insight to the additional challenges and opportunities that they present.
Case studies and scenarios will allow the students to undertake enquiry-based learning.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

Critically review and articulate the pathophysiology and clinical dietetic management for specific client groups;
Assess and diagnose nutritional problems related to disease and illness in specific client groups through the application of the nutrition care process (NCP);
Formulate and justify nutritional goals and strategies for specific client groups; and
Appropriately articulate, record and reflect on relevant information for dietetic management, of specific client groups.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Case Study

Grade: 45%

Case study reports (3) (1000 words each)

Assessment type: Examination

Grade: 40%

OSCE (30mins) (hurdle)

Assessment type: Presentation

Grade: 15%

Personal reflection on learning

The OSCE is a hurdle task for this unit as it ensures the students can demonstrate the practical skills in a time restricted manner as required on clinical placement. It aligns directly with the National Competency Standards for Dietitians.

Required reading

Handbook of clinical nutrition and dietetics

Stewart, R. (Ed.). (2022)| Australian Dietitian.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Bachelor of Nutritional Science/Master of Dietetics

HCND | Bachelor degree | Duration: 4.5 years

Master of Dietetics

HMDT | Masters (coursework) degree | Duration: 2 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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