Introduction to Clinical Practice

Unit code: HBS3005 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
City Campus
Prerequisites
HBS3004 - Patient and Health System 2
HBS3604 - Clinical Skills 6; and
HBO3008 - Biomedical Science for Osteopathy 8; and
HBO3009 - Biomedical Science for Osteopathy 9; and
HBS3003 - Evidence Based Practice for Osteopathy 3
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Overview
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Overview

This unit aims to prepare students to be ready as a treating practitioner under supervision in the Victoria University (VU) Osteopathy Teaching Clinics for the Clinical Practice units of the Master component of the HCOP Bachelor of Science (Osteopathy)/ Master of Health Science (Osteopathy). It aims to integrate the skills and knowledge developed in the previous units of the undergraduate degree. Using case based learning and patient simulation students will apply a patient-centred approach, within the osteopathic scope of practice to develop evidence-based management plans. Students will also be observing, participating in and reflecting on clinical practice in the VU Osteopathy Teaching Clinics.

Learning Outcomes

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

  1. Exhibit clinical reasoning for patient management that draws on an understanding of clinical skills, evidence for practice, biomedical sciences and the biopsychosocial factors influencing a case presentation;
  2. Appraise biopsychosocial determinants of health and pain experience to integrate culturally safe screening procedures into patient management;
  3. Formulate osteopathic management plans for a diverse range of patients with a variety of health complaints, utilising Clinical Practice Guidelines where appropriate; and
  4. Critically reflect on the development of key skills appropriate for a health professional.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

The report requires the students to use the observations recorded during their time in the VU Osteopathy Teaching Clinic, to write a reflective report and set SMART goals to assist their transition into clinical practice. Clinical entrance exam part A is an in-class, clinical entrance exam practice. This assessment familiarises students with the final assessment by performing a practice oral reasoning exam. It also aims to develop and build students’ peer feedback literacy. The presentation requires students to work in a group to complete a case study and prepare an in-class presentation in which they will discuss their clinical reasoning in developing and implementing an evidence-based management plan. The Clinical Entrance Exam is a multi-station oral examination that assesses the student’s integration of Biomedical Sciences, Evidence-based Practice, Clinical Skills and clinical reasoning in a patient case scenario. An additional hurdle for this unit is the completion of 40 hours of observation in the VU Osteopathy Teaching Clinic and completion of two clinic workbooks.

Assessment type: Report
|
Grade: 20%
Written reflection on patient observations (1000 words)
Assessment type: Other
|
Grade: 5%
Clinical entrance exam Part A: In-class practice (20 mins)
Assessment type: Presentation
|
Grade: 25%
Case study presentation (group) (30mins)
Assessment type: Other
|
Grade: 50%
Clinical entrance oral reasoning exam Part B (30mins) (hurdle requirement)
Assessment type: Other
|
Grade: 0%
40 clinical observation hours and completion of 2 clinic workbooks (hurdle requirement)

The clinical entrance oral reasoning exam (Part B) evaluates student readiness to enter the VU teaching clinics as a treating practitioner. This assessment is a hurdle requirement as it evaluates clinical decision making which is essential for patient safety.

80% attendance is required for practical classes, which develop knowledge, competency and safety in practical clinical assessment and treatment skills. These requirements align with the VU Osteopathic Course documentation to the AOAC.

This unit requires 40 hours of clinical observation and participation in the VU Osteopathy Teaching Clinics undertaken over the calendar year.

A Clinical Placement Workbook will be completed throughout the year as clinical placements are undertaken. This workbook will include recording of minimum placement hours and patient observations as well as written activities reflecting on each shift undertaken. Successful completion of the Clinical Placement Workbook, and the associated hours and observations, is an ungraded hurdle requirement for the unit. This is in line with the Australian Osteopathic Accreditation Council accreditation requirements. There will be two check points for this requirement prior to commencement of the unit delivery.

Required reading

RECOMMENDED TEXTS: Brukner, P., Khan, K., & Brukner, P. (2017). Brukner & Khan's Clinical Sports Medicine, 5th ed. Sydney: McGraw-Hill. Vizniak, N. A., Fairweather, L., Murray, N., Hussain, S., DeLapp, D., Eni, G., Davidson, T., & Hedrich, T. (2022). Evidence Informed Orthopedic Conditions: 300+ Patient Centred Principles and Best Practices. Professional Health Systems Incorporated.

As part of a course

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

Bachelor of Science (Osteopathy)/Master of Health Science (Osteopathy)
HCOP | Bachelor degree | Duration: 4.5 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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