Available in 2024
Course code

PHTY2030

Units

10 units

Level

2000 level

Course handbook

Description

An introduction to physiotherapy knowledge and clinical skills for the evaluation and management of selected basic neurological disorders across the lifespan. The course includes preliminary studies in symptomatology; assessment procedures to define impairments and limitations in activity and participation; relevant clinical reasoning processes; and management skills and techniques.


Availability2024 Course Timetables

Callaghan

  • Semester 2 - 2024

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course students will be able to:

1. Apply biomedical and behavioural scientific knowledge to the physiotherapy evaluation and management of basic neurological disorders across the lifespan;

2. Describe the aetiology, epidemiology, pathogenesis and clinical presentation of stroke patients, with particular emphasis on motor and sensory problems;

3. Conduct an appropriate basic examination of the neurological system in adults, including history and physical examination;

4. Appropriately select, modify as necessary, and correctly demonstrate basic measurement and testing procedures commonly used in assessing neurological dysfunction;

5. Understand and apply basic clinical reasoning skills and an evidence-based approach to decision making in neurological physiotherapy practice;

6. Appropriately select, modify as necessary, and correctly demonstrate basic physiotherapeutic treatment procedures commonly used in the management of neurological dysfunction;

7. Apply basic treatment evaluation and intervention outcome processes appropriate for neurological physiotherapy practice;

8. Discuss relevant lifespan, gender, cultural, legal and ethical considerations in performing basic neurological physiotherapy evaluation and management procedures;

9. Demonstrate a developing understanding of the role of the client, carers and other health care professionals in the holistic management of neurological patients in a cultural context;

10. Effectively develop and appropriately present a critical discussion in written format to demonstrate research literacy


Content

Neuroanatomical localisation of cerebral and brainstem lesions; symptomatology, especially motor/sensory changes following vascular lesions and brain damage

Clinical reasoning in neurological physiotherapy practice; reasoning skills needed for interpreting the clinical examination of neurological patients and collaboratively planning their management

Information gathering/history taking for patients presenting with neurological disorders

Examination principles and procedures commonly used in assessing neurological disorders across the lifespan

Outcome measures for neurological disorders including reliability, validity and responsiveness

Stroke: aetiology, pathology, symptomatology and basic medical and surgical management, including radiological investigations

Historical development of neurological physiotherapy practice

Current principles of neurological rehabilitation practice; biological basis and empirical evidence for physiotherapy interventions

Physiotherapeutic management of stroke patients, including motor, sensory, perceptual and behavioural/cognitive deficits

Optimization of motor performance following neurological disorders; skills in training motor/sensory deficits in all functional activities following stroke

Alternate approaches to the management of neurological disorders inlcuding PNF and Bobath

 Methods of maximizing rehabilitation intensity, volume and specificity including exercise prescription and group programs

The principles and importance of primary and secondary stroke prevention and the role of physiotherapy in health promotion

The psychological impact of stroke on patients and their significant others and strategies to manage these effects

Availability of services in the community for stroke clients and their integration into society

Role of other health professionals in team management of neurological patients across the lifespan, including team decision making


Requisite

This course is only available to students enrolled in the Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours) program [12337]. Students must have successfully completed PHTY1020, HUBS1105, HUBS2103.


Assumed knowledge

HLSC1000, PHTY1020, HUBS1403, HUBS1404, HUBS1105, HUBS2103, HUBS2505


Assessment items

Formal Examination: Formal Exam

Practical Demonstration: Prac Viva examinations
Compulsory Requirement: Pass requirement - Must pass this assessment item to pass the course.

Written Assignment: Essays / Written Assignments


Contact hours

Semester 2 - 2024 - Callaghan

Lecture-2
  • Face to Face On Campus 18 hour(s) per term
Practical-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 40 hour(s) per term

Course outline