Overview

Mental health emergencies form a considerable part of the workload for paramedics in the out-of-hospital setting. For clinicians working in the community, it is crucial to understand the prevalence of mental illness, the different presentations of mental ill health and how to provide care as first responders.  In addition, it … For more content click the Read More button below.

Topic availabilities

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Tuition pattern

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Aims

Mental health and mental illness within the community are a significant concern for those who work in the pre-hospital health care field. This topic explores the characteristics and prevalence of mental illness encountered in the pre-hospital setting. This includes the utilisation of mental health services, their availability, and the individual and social implications of living with a mental illness. The topic introduces students to current thinking in mental health reform, strategies for assessment, risk management and safe and effective provision of care. Emphasis is placed on safe and effective communication skills and the use of de-escalation when attending acute presentations.

Learning outcomes

On completion of this topic you will be expected to be able to:
1.
Critique the implications of the current Australian mental health system and mental health legislation on the provision of safe and culturally appropriate paramedic care for people with mental health concerns
2.
Discuss the effects of stigma, discrimination and the social determinants of health on a person’s mental health and wellbeing
3.
Identify and recognise common mental health conditions, their aetiology and current understanding of causes (pathophysiological, social and psychological) and paramedic management
4.
Apply and document the assessment of mental health, risk and management of persons presenting to paramedics with mental health concerns including the use of advanced communication skills, psychotherapeutic techniques and safe pharmacological administration

Assessments

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Current students should refer to FLO for detailed assessment information, including due dates. Assessment information is accurate at the time of publishing.

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Requisites information

Pre-requisites:

Assumed knowledge

Basic Life Support.