MDSC3100 Point-of-Care Testing: Application, Management and Effectiveness

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Overview

This topic will provide a basic introduction to the theory and practice of point-of-care pathology testing (POCT) which is now used by a wide range of health professionals for acute, chronic and infectious diseases. It will describe analytical, physiological, clinical, and technological aspects of POCT devices and illustrate a range of devices that are currently available in Australia to perform POCT. The principles of how to choose a POCT device, which is fit for purpose, and how to establish and manage a POCT service will also be covered. The evidence base for the effectiveness of POCT for the prevention and management of chronic, acute and infectious disease will be discussed. Tutorial sessions will illustrate working POCT models in Australia, particularly focussing in decentralised rural and community settings. Students will gain hands-on experience in operating devices (face to face classes permitting).

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Tuition pattern

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Aims

This topic aims to:

Introduce students to the concept of POCT
Illustrate to students the diversity of applications for POCT and a range of devices available for use in both hospital and community-based health care settings in Australia
Introduce students to the key principles for establishing and maintaining a POCT service, particularly the management of analytical quality
Provide students with an understanding of the current evidence base for the effectiveness of POCT

Learning outcomes

On completion of this topic you will be expected to be able to:

Demonstrate working knowledge of the range of POCT devices available in Australia

Demonstrate understanding of the scope of POCT applications in both hospital and community-based health care settings and in acute and chronic disease states

Demonstrate practical knowledge of how to scientifically evaluate a POCT device, particularly in relation to analytical quality

Demonstrate working knowledge of some successful applications of community-based POCT models in Australia

Discuss the role that the medical scientist can have as a POCT Coordinator, supporting POCT services in both the hospital and community-based health care settings at local, statewide, national and international levels

Assessments

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Requisites information

Pre-requisites:

Anti-requisites:

Assumed knowledge

Knowledge of physiology and biochemistry.

Handbook

Point-of-Care Testing: Application, Management and Effectiveness

MDSC3100

4.5 Units