Paramedic Law, Ethics and Professionalism

Unit code: HFB1003 | Study level: Undergraduate
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
St Albans
N/A
Overview
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Overview

A paramedic registered in Australia must be professional and ethical and must practice with professional autonomy and accountability within current medico-legal frameworks. This unit will introduce students to the ethical and professional attributes which underpin good paramedic practice. By engaging in problem-based learning, students will form an understanding of the four key bioethical principles of non-maleficence, beneficence, respect for autonomy and justice, and navigate ethical dilemmas by applying an ethical decision-making framework. Students will develop knowledge and understanding about important health care themes such as ethical theories; professional skills and values essential for providing safe, person-centred care; consent and advocacy; torts, negligence and duty of care; end-of-life care; working with vulnerable patients; ethical and legal use of medicines; and privacy, confidentiality and record keeping.

Learning Outcomes

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

  1. Define and apply medical terminology appropriately;
  2. Discuss ethical concepts pertaining to the delivery of competent and ethical health care;
  3. Locate and discuss the governance and medico-legal frameworks that relate to paramedic practice;
  4. Demonstrate the professional skills and attributes required of a paramedic including communication for patient safety and person-centred care; and
  5. Apply an ethical decision-making framework to navigate an out-of-hospital ethical dilemma.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 20%
3 x MCQ Quizzes (10 mins each)
Assessment type: Portfolio
|
Grade: 15%
Professional Attributes Portfolio – Healthcare rights infographic (10%) & case study (5%)
Assessment type: Assignment
|
Grade: 35%
Group assignment – Ethical dilemma (problem solving exercise, peer review and feedback, and group reflection)
Assessment type: Case Study
|
Grade: 30%
Case Based Theory Assessment (45 minutes)

Required reading

Applied paramedic law, ethics and professionalism: Australia and New Zealand
Townsend, R., & Luck, M. (2020)| Chatswood, NSW Elsevier Australia

As part of a course

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

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