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:
In the first case study, students will leverage their theoretical understanding of team-based care in rheumatological conditions to analyse a patient case and justify an evidence-based plan for the appropriate screening, management and referral. In the second case study students will apply their theoretical understanding of chronic pain to analyse a patient case and justify an evidence-based plan for the appropriate communication, management and monitoring. The clinical reasoning task requires students to interpret a scenario and discuss a best practice response to the clinical problem related to chronic pain presentations in osteopathic practice.
This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):