Advanced Health Assessment and Clinical Reasoning

Prepare to perform advanced health and physical assessment of the child or adult and family who are experiencing illness. Students must be competent in basic health and physical assessment, and the associated techniques prior to beginning the course. Models of clinical reasoning are investigated, critically reviewed and applied to a broad range of clinical case studies as students develop knowledge and skill in the collection of data, diagnostic approaches and formulation of therapeutic plans in collaboration with clients and families. Practical elements of advanced client assessment are addressed in terms of their impact on the client’s health status, including physical and mental status, psychosocial status, developmentally appropriate approaches to assessment, growth and development milestones, family, cultural and community factors, and the implications of determinants of health and risk appraisal. Clinical, theoretical and scientific knowledge is synthesized in the identification and management of existing and potential client states of health and illness. Approaches to effective written and verbal communication of findings to lay individuals and health professional colleagues as they relate to the client and family are addressed. Submission of a health evaluation and immunization form is required prior to registration.