Handbook home
Foundations in Cancer Nursing (NURS90121)
Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5Online
About this subject
Contact information
April
Email: continuing-education@unimelb.edu.au
Phone: + 61 3 8344 0149
Contact hours: https://unimelb.edu.au/professional-development/contact-us
Overview
| Availability | April - Online |
|---|---|
| Fees | Look up fees |
This subject is designed to promote the development of foundation theoretical knowledge for the specialist nursing of people affected by cancer. Key concepts explored in this subject include cancer biology, diagnosis, and treatment planning, underpinned by the principles of cure, control, and symptom management. Cancer epidemiology is explained with a focus on cancer control in specific populations, including First Nations Australians. Surgery, systemic anticancer therapies and radiation therapy are examined as core treatments and elements of a multi-modal approach in the management of cancers. The physical and psychosocial impacts of diagnosis and treatment on people with cancer and their family are explored, as are opportunities to develop knowledge and skills to enhance the experience of survivors. Emphasis is placed on health assessment and implementing and evaluating patient-centred care through the delivery of evidence-based nursing interventions across the disease trajectory.
Intended learning outcomes
On completion of this subject, students should be able to:
- Apply the principles of cancer biology, diagnosis and treatment planning in specialist cancer nursing care to prepare, support and assess people affected by cancer
- Identify national and international trends in cancer epidemiology and the role of the specialist cancer nurse in related cancer control activities
- Outline the impact of cancer on specific populations, including First Nations Australians
- Discuss the scientific and clinical rationale for acute and delayed effects of each of the cancer treatment modalities and specialist cancer nursing care required
- Integrate best practice specialist cancer nursing care for people affected by cancer participating in cancer clinical trials
- Analyse patient health data to anticipate disease- and treatment-related health needs across the continuum of care and respond with an evidence-based plan of care
- Assess the physical, psychosocial, informational and spiritual supportive care needs of people affected by cancer and evidence-based multidisciplinary cancer control interventions to meet these needs
Generic skills
- Apply a high level of problem solving skills
- A high level of critical thinking and analytical skills
- Feel confident when tackling unfamiliar problems
- A high level of oral and written communication skills
- The ability to plan their own work
Last updated: 8 November 2024