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School for Health, Unit Catalogue 2007/08


FH50134 Osteoarthritis

Credits: 6
Level: Masters
Modular: no specific semester
Assessment: OT100
Requisites:
Aims: The aim of this Unit is to explore theories and practice of the epidemiology, classification and differentiating osteoarthritis in a primary care setting.
Learning Outcomes:
Knowledge and Understanding
After taking this unit the student should be able to:
* Demonstrate an understanding of the broad pathophysiology of osteoarthritis and patterns of disease
* Evaluate the implications of actions and side-effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents and strategies for their use
These learning outcomes will be taught and assessed.
Skills:
On completion of this unit students should be able to:
* make a diagnosis of osteoarthritis and provide advice on likely outcome
* apply principles of pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions in management of osteoarthritis
* plan and manage their learning through reflecting on and analysing their own learning needs.
* integrate and critically evaluate information gathered from a wide range of resources including the unit resources, text books, journal articles, web pages and other online resources. An appreciation for a hierarchy of evidence should be displayed.
* demonstrate effective communication with patients, colleagues and tutors including through asynchronous online discussions.
These learning outcomes will be facilitated and some may be assessed.
Content:

* Pathophysiology of the musculoskeletal system, outlining structure of bones and synovial joints and their contribution to the body's stability, support and movement
* Disability and handicap; the concept of multidisciplinary team in primary care
* Clinical aspects of osteoarthritis, risk factors, epidemiology, common presenting features and management principles
* Categorisation of drugs and summarised side effects with reason for therapy, guidelines for monitoring
* Educational material for patients.