Overview

Care of the unconscious or semiconscious patient in the pre-hospital setting is a complex and demanding role. It requires a sound theoretical comprehension of neurological physiology, aetiology and pathophysiology of the many neurological disorders and a high level of competence in patient assessment. Management of the neurologically impaired patient demands … For more content click the Read More button below.

Topic availabilities

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Tuition pattern

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Aims

This topic aims to provide the student with the key concepts of assessment, care and management of a patient presenting with a neurological disorder in the emergency setting. It explores the aetiology, pathophysiology, presentation and treatment of the major disorders. The topic is divided into the following modules:

  • Advanced nervous system anatomy and physiology
  • Cerebrovascular disorders
  • Seizure disorders
  • Brain and spinal cord trauma
  • Paediatric neurological emergencies
  • Special senses
  • Neuromuscular disorders
  • Pharmacology affecting the nervous system and pain management

Learning outcomes

On completion of this topic you will be expected to be able to:
1.
Synthesize the multiple pathways of neural tissue into the key concepts of neurologic function as relevant to paramedic practice
2.
Describe the pathophysiology, a focused neurologic assessment, and management of various neurologic pathologies relevant to paramedic practice
3.
Demonstrate the ability to activate specialist prehospital and in-hospital resources based on evidence-based neurologic assessment principles
4.
Correlate the specific legislation on capacity & duty of care in the setting of an acute or chronic neurologic compromise, as relevant to paramedic practice
5.
Identify the indications, contraindications & precautions of the pharmacological interventions associated with neurologic pathologies, as relevant to paramedic practice
6.
Demonstrate ability to articulate clinical concepts and apply them to the assessment & management of neurological emergencies within the prehospital setting

Assessments

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Requisites information

Pre-requisites:
Anti-requisites:

Assumed knowledge

Advanced Life Support.