MEDI6050

Pain Management

10 Units 6000 Level Course

Not available in 2014

Previously offered in 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004

a course based on videotapes and prescribed reading, involving a critical appraisal of the literature, designed to establish the efficacy and indications of possible pharmacological, physical, electrical, behavioural and surgical managment of pain.

Objectives To provide candidates with means of managing pain in their own community setting, by providing up-to-date information on the available means of treating pain.

To be able to apply the skills of critical reasoning to assess the efficacy of a treatment for pain.

to be able to select for a patient the best plan of management based on a thorough appraisal of the patient's problems and efficacy of treatment options.

To be able to co-operate with others in an interdisciplinary fashion to obtain optimal management of their patients.
Content Pharmacology: clinically relevant aspects of pharmacology of paracetamol, opioids, local anaesthetics, NSAIDS, tricyclics, steroids, new agents including pharmacokinetics, routes of delivery, dosage, complicaitons, indications and efficacy.

Physical therapy: efficacy and utility of physical therpaies

Electrotherapy: efficacy and utility of TENS, DCS

Behavioural Therapy: models of behavioural therapy psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy, operatn conditioning, characteristic elements of each, evidence of efficacy

Surgery: principles of correctiional surgery for pain, indications and efficacy. Cryosurgery and RF neurotomy - applications and evidence of efficacy, new surgery procedures

How to obtain novel or high-tech treatment: what to expect afterwards, what to look out for and what to do
Replacing Course(s) nil
Transition n/a
Industrial Experience 0
Assumed Knowledge Previous clinical experience involving interaction with patients and undergraduate knowledge of the principles of pharmacology and medical treatment.
Modes of Delivery Distance Learning : IT Based
Distance Learning : Paper Based
Teaching Methods Email Discussion Group
Self Directed Learning
Assessment Items
Examination: Class Multiple choice examination using Type A, type B and Type X questions tesitng knowledge of the indications, mechanisms, and efficacy of various treatments. Assignment on formulating an assessment of one of the candidate's own patients, together with a critical justificatioin of what was and what was not done.
Contact Hours Email Discussion Group: for 10 hour(s) per Week for Full Term
Compulsory Components
Requisite by Enrolment This course is only available to students enrolled in the Master of Pain Medicine program.