Medical Nutritional Therapy 3

Unit code:HHN6002Study level:Postgraduate

Credit points

12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)

Location

VU Sunshine Clinical School

Prerequisites

HHN6001 - Medical Nutritional Therapy 2
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Co-requisites
(Corequisite units must be studied concurrently with this unit)

Overview

Dietitians work with clients in several diverse populations. These include, but are not limited to, neonatal and paediatric clients, critically ill patients, athletes and physically demanding professions (e.g. fire service, police and defence force). Within these groups individual nutritional counselling and group education may be utilised to elicit change in dietary intakes for medical or performance related outcomes. This unit will explore some of the specific nutrition and dietetic challenges presenting in these groups. Students will develop skills in specialised aspects of assessment and management of disease and trauma within these groups as well as an insight to the additional challenges and opportunities that they present.
Case studies and scenarios will allow the students to undertake enquiry-based learning.

Learning Outcomes

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

Critically review and articulate the pathophysiology and clinical dietetic management for diverse client groups;
Assess and diagnose nutritional problems related to disease and illness in specific client groups through the application of the nutrition care process (NCP);
Formulate and justify nutritional goals and strategies for diverse client groups;
Appropriately articulate, record and reflect on relevant information for dietetic management, of diverse client groups; and
Exhibit a commitment to professional development and lifelong learning.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Case Study | Grade: 45%

Nutrition Care Process (NCP) reports (3) (15% each, 1000 words each)

Assessment type: Examination | Grade: 50%

Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) (30mins)

Assessment type: Report | Grade: 5%

In class, invigilated personal reflection and learning plan (300 words)

The OSCE and the personal reflection with learning plan are hurdle tasks for this unit as they ensure that students can exhibit practical skills in a time restricted manner, as required on clinical placement and students demonstrate the ability to reflect upon their professional development and lifelong learning needs. These tasks align directly with the National Competency Standards for Dietitians. Students will complete several NCP reports across diverse client groups throughout the unit. They will be required to submit three reports, linked to simulations.