Applied Clinical Theory and Skills 1 furthers the theoretical knowledge, clinical reasoning and patient management approaches of osteopathy students. Students investigate the pathophysiology, clinical presentations, and management of rheumatological disorders relevant to osteopathic practice. This unit expands upon pain science theory that was introduced in the undergraduate program with a focus on the neurological mechanisms of the chronic/persistent pain patient. Students will be exposed to the pharmacological management strategies of chronic pain patients and will apply an evidence informed, biopsychosocial approach to assessment and management of these patient populations. Students will have the opportunity to apply a range of tools to assist clinical decision making to a variety of musculoskeletal complaints and debate the contribution of osteopathic practice in the broader health care system including the management of patients in team-based care and third-party payment schemes.
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
The test in week one will assess fundamental knowledge of rheumatological conditions and the associated pharmaceutical agents. In week two, the first report will assess the students’ ability to apply their knowledge of rheumatological conditions and clinical reasoning skills to a case study analysis. In week 3, the second case study analysis report will assess the students’ ability to apply their knowledge of chronic pain conditions, along with their clinical reasoning skills through case study analysis. This will include assessment of the students’ ability to integrate knowledge of rheumatology and chronic pain.
The Finally, the Clinical Reasoning Task requires students to provide ‘best practice’ responses to clinical problems related to the management of chronic pain patients.
This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):