Division of Health Sciences
School of Nursing and Midwifery
School of Nursing and Midwifery
Professional Development Course
This course has been developed by the School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of South Australia in collaboration with industry experts from the Drug and Alcohol Services, South Australia (DASSA). It provides multi-disciplinary professionals with knowledge and skills to effectively respond to issues encountered in contemporary practice where drugs and/or alcohol use/misuse may be a factor.
Course weighting: equivalent to 4.5 units.
Course duration: completed over one study period (ie: 1 semester/6 months study).
Course workload: External and/or on-line study materials are provided to students.
An integral component of the course includes a casework scenario approach that:
Promotes critical problem solving strategies, and
Relates to the experience and expertise of participants.
Further Information: Course Information Page
Evidence of successful completion relevant tertiary or DETAFE studies.
Aim
Alcohol and Other Drugs: Practical Responses to Contemporary Issues aims to provide health and welfare professionals with essential foundation knowledge and management strategies to work collaboratively with clients experiencing drug and alcohol related health effects.
Outcomes
On completion of this program, participants will be able to:
Describe public health and broader social, legal and political responses to drug and alcohol use;
Link primary health care principles with strategic actions to promote inclusive harm minimisation and holistic care for clients;
Demonstrate a sound knowledge of the health related effects of drug and/or alcohol misuse;
Discuss the interdependent, contextual and contemporary management of clients experiencing a drug or alcohol-related problem;
Critically evaluate performance in diverse practice areas where drug and alcohol interventions may be required;
Compile a critical reflective analysis of the personal learning that has occurred.
Content
Drug issues and policy in Australia
Inclusive inter-sectoral and community approaches to drug and alcohol-related health issues
Legal and health perspectives in drugs and alcohol
Pharmacology and pharmacokinetics
Practitioner responses to drugs and alcohol
Public health and occupational health, welfare and safety factors in drugs and alcohol
Health behaviour change
Research and evidence based practice.
This course is predominately delivered in the external mode where students are provided with course study materials. It is expected students will have access to the electronic on-line environment for contact with the lecturer, other students, the Library and for some assessment purposes.
There are two written assignments to be completed.
Recommended Text Book
Hamilton M, King T & Ritter A (eds) (2004) Drug Use in Australia, Preventing harm, Oxford University Press, Melbourne.
Course commencement date:
Study Period 2 (semester 1) commencing 16/02/2009 to 03/07/2009
Census date 31st march 2009
Applications Close for Study Period 2 (semester 1) – 31st January 2009.
Course fees:
In 2009 a fee of $ 1654.74 applies for this Professional Accredited Course.
http://www.unisa.edu.au/future/fees/nonaward.asp
Application for Professional Development Course
If you require assistance with the application form please contact Campus Central City East who can assist you personally.
Administrative Officer – Professional Accredited Courses
School of Nursing and Midwifery
University of South Australia
City East Campus
North Terrace
Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Telephone: +61 8 8302 1802
Fax: +61 8 8302 1806
E-mail:
NursingProfDev.enquiries@unisa.edu.au
