Nursing in Chronic Illness and Primary Health Care

Unit code: HNB3006 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
VU Online
Prerequisites
HNB2008 - Contemporary Nursing C
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Co-requisites
(Corequisite units must be studied concurrently with this unit)
Overview
Enquire

Overview

This unit examines the principles of primary health care in the prevention and management of chronic illness and the delivery of palliative care across the lifespan. Students will explore how primary health care frameworks promote health equity, prevention, and people-centred care for all, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.. The unit focuses on the complex needs of individuals living with chronic conditions, emphasising the importance of understanding pathophysiology and the quality use of medicines in managing these conditions. It also highlights strategies for supporting self-management and enhancing quality of life through culturally competent nursing care. In addition, students will develop an understanding of palliative care approaches that provide compassionate, holistic support to people with life-limiting illnesses and their families. Students will examine strategies to support self-management, enhance quality of life, and address the social determinants of health in chronic and life-limiting conditions. The unit also highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and advocacy in delivering equitable, holistic care in both community and palliative care settings.

Learning Outcomes

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

  1. Analyse evidence and models of chronic and primary health care that inform nursing care, and fostering intraprofessional and interprofessional collaboration to optimise outcomes for individuals, families, and communities across the lifespan;
  2. Exhibit people-centred and culturally competent approach to the assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of habilitation, rehabilitation, supportive, and palliative care for individuals with chronic or life-limiting conditions;
  3. Exemplify culturally appropriate, safe, and sensitive communication that fosters trust and respectful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from other cultural backgrounds, and their families living with chronic illness;
  4. Evaluate the pathophysiology, pharmacotherapeutics, and quality use of medicines in managing chronic conditions, and justify nursing decisions that ensure the safe and effective use of medications across the lifespan; and
  5. Critically reflect on the principles and values of continuing and palliative care, including ethical and legal considerations, digital health strategies, and collaborative communication that support quality end-of-life care.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

The online vSim scenario-based test enable students to evaluate their understanding of the unit content. In the case study written assessment, students will draw on and apply the knowledge gained in the unit. The individual presentation and Viva enables students to demonstrate their understanding of unit specific concepts and articulate their insights effectively.

Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 20%
Online invigilated vSim scenario-based test
Assessment type: Assignment
|
Grade: 40%
Case study based written assessment (1500 Words)
Assessment type: Presentation
|
Grade: 40%
Part A: Interview script (10%) Part B: Individual presentation and viva (30%)

To be eligible for an overall pass in this unit, students must submit all assessment items.

Required reading

Required readings will be made available on VU Collaborate.

As part of a course

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

Bachelor of Nursing
HBNB | Bachelor degree | Duration: 3 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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