513-110 Physiotherapy 1

Credit Points

Coordinator

Semester

Contact

Subject Description

Physiotherapy 1 is the first component of a series of integrated subjects which will continue through semesters one to four.

The objectives for semester one are to develop an understanding of the theory and practice of physiotherapy within three themes--communication skills, human movement and clinical practice. In parallel to this, an understanding of concepts of normality and abnormality in relation to the human mind, the biopsychosocial model of health, ethical issues in health practice and social and cultural concepts of health and illness will be developed.

Content areas include: mechanics of human movement, therapeutic techniques, mechanics of lifting, motor skill learning, joint structure and function including types of joint movement and factors affecting the normal range of movement, types of muscle action, and the mechanical and physiological factors affecting the contribution of a muscle to a functional activity. These will all include aspects across the life span. The biological basis of behaviour, personality development, social identity and group function, the structure of physiotherapy practice, ethical responsibilities to patients, colleagues and the community, health belief models, public health and health promotion, communication and interviewing skills will also be included, as well as a basic first aid course.

The clinical skill development will be undertaken in a context of professional practice and will incorporate appropriate experiential teaching and learning paradigms.

Assessment

Written material up to 4000 words which may include essays, projects or critical appraisal of literature (20%)

Written examination--3 hour paper (40%)

Practical examinations which may include video making, presentations and clinical skills exams (40%)

Emergency Medicine Unit--First aid (hurdle requirement)