92921 Neuroscience: Degenerative and Oncological

Subject level: Postgraduate

Handbook description

This subject focuses on the study of persons who have malignant or non-malignant tumours, degenerative disorders, disturbances in electrical conduction, infections and acute and chronic pain states. The subject content is explored using clinical case studies and a framework that reflects a holistic model of care.

Subject objectives/outcomes

On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:

1. apply the pathophysiological and psychosocial processes of health breakdown across the lifespan, to persons who have experienced tumours, infections, pain, electrical disruption and degenerative changes to the nervous system
2. plan the nursing care for persons who have a tumour, infection, pain, electrical disruption and degenerative changes to the nervous system, which is based on the results of a full neurological assessment
3. analyse a range of innovative therapies and technologies to nursing acute care strategies
4. apply research evidence to nursing practice
5. critically evaluate various approaches to nursing care, in order to provide the most effective healing environment
6. recognise the impact of neurological illness on values, customs and beliefs of patients and their family and friends
7. analyse the short and long-term impact of tumours, infections, pain, electrical disruption and degenerative changes to the nervous system
8. discuss various strategies and approaches employed in the rehabilitation of persons who have a tumour, infection, pain, electrical disruption and degenerative changes to the nervous system
9. understand the ethico-legal implications of nervous system dysfunction.

Teaching and learning strategies

Teaching sessions include relevant pathophysiological process, as well as nursing, medical and allied health management, and the impact of lifestyle. Lectures include clinicians and faculty staff.

Content

• Tumours of the nervous system: brain tumours: neuroembryonic — astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas, ependymomas; intra-axial tumours — cranial nerves, pituitary gland, meninges
• Degenerative changes to the nervous system: multiple sclerosis; Parkinson's disease; Guillain Barré syndrome; neuropathies and muscular dystrophies; dementias; AIDS — neurological manifestations; intravertebral disc disease.
• Disturbances to electrical conduction: epilepsy; cranial nerve disorders — facial paralysis, trigeminal neuralgia; Meniere's disease; Myasthenia gravis; peripheral nerve injuries
• Infection of the nervous system: brain abscess; meningitis; encephalitis
• Acute and chronic pain states: pain theories; mechanisms of pain; headache — tension, migraine, cluster headaches; back pain; nerve pain.