Module Specifications.
Current Academic Year 2024 - 2025
All Module information is indicative, and this portal is an interim interface pending the full upgrade of Coursebuilder and subsequent integration to the new DCU Student Information System (DCU Key).
As such, this is a point in time view of data which will be refreshed periodically. Some fields/data may not yet be available pending the completion of the full Coursebuilder upgrade and integration project. We will post status updates as they become available. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Date posted: September 2024
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Repeat examination Array |
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Description Mental health students undertaking this module should be able to identify physical health conditions affecting people with mental health problems i.e the development of metabolic syndrome and health comorbidities including cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, type two diabetics, some cancers and the clients health behaviors - poor diet and lack of exercise and sexual health issues. Mental health students should also be able to critique other related issues including diagnostic overshadowing and uncoordinated care between primary and secondary services. Students should at the end of this module have developed the knowledge, assessment skills and management interventions that will promote the physical health and well-being of people in their care. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning Outcomes 1. Outline the causes of metabolic syndrome and discuss the prevalence of this condition among people with mental health problems. 2. Understand the causes of cardiovascular disease among people with mental health problems and explore interventions aimed at enhancing cardiac function for people with mental illness. 3. Understand the causes of respiratory disease among people with mental health problems and explore ways in which respiratory function for people with mental problems can be enhanced. 4. Gain an understanding of the relationship between mental health problems and cancer and be able to discuss various cancer screening programmes and how people with mental health problems can be made aware of these. 5. Consider the impact of lifestyle factors on the physical health and wellbeing for those with mental illness and explore the barriers and facilitators to promoting healthy lifestyles. 6. Develop psychomotor and technical skills in the care of Persons with Physical Ill Health Vital Signs using the ABCDE format Conduction Urinalysis Metabolic monitoring taking - Waist circumstance, Blood Pressure measurements, and BMIs Undertaking Blood Glucose Monitoring Respiratory Therapy (Peak Flow, Pulse Oximetry, Suctioning, and Nebuliser Therapy) Neurological Observations - Glasgow coma scale | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml |
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Indicative Content and Learning Activities
lecturesThe relationship between physical illness and mental health, the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and the need for nurses to screen and intervene. Physical health challenges commonly experienced by people in the care of mental health services in relation to the cardiovascular, respiratory, neurological, digestive, endocrine and genito-urinary systems will be explored. Related pharmacological and / or behavioural approaches indicated will be examined in the context of the mental health setting to augment physical care priorities. The impact of lifestyle factors on physical healthClinical skillsCase study and OSCE - to demonstrate the ability to undertake the following assessments: • BMI • Waist circumstances • Blood pressure Pathology tests – • Glucose levels • Cholesterol levels. Blood glucose testing.Clinical skillsCase study and OSCE to demonstrate the ability to undertake Pulse and Blood pressure monitoring.Clinical skillsCase study and OSCE to demonstrate the ability to assess respiratory function: • Respiratory pattern • Breathlessness • Sputum • Cyanosis Respiratory rate Pulse rate Peak expiratory flow (PEF)Clinical skillsDemonstrate the ability to undertake a number of clinical skills related to physical health care | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List
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Other Resources None | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Summary information for Transcript of Training: This module provides students of mental health nursing with an introduction to the physical needs that may be encountered when caring for an individual who has a mental health condition. |