Mental Health for Paramedicine

Abstract

This subject will equip students with evidence-based knowledge and effective skills to care for persons experiencing a wide range of mental health emergencies and/or presenting with substance-induced behavioural emergencies. This will encompass all population groups, including First Nations people and diverse populations. Paramedics need to function effectively in an increasingly demanding and complex environment that impacts physical and mental well-being which places them at increased risk of mental illnesses such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This subject is designed to assist students to strengthen their capacity for self-care, strengthen their emotional resilience, recognise early signs of mental distress, engage in effective therapeutic relationships and identify how to access mental health professionals and services.

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics: Why mental health for paramedics?The impact of stress and distress on paramedic wellbeing;Building your resilience and maintaining your mental wellbeing;Mental State Examination;Mental illness in all populations, inclusive of First Nations people and diverse populations;Drug and alcohol disorders;Building a therapeutic relationship;Responding to challenging behaviours;Risk … For more content click the Read More button below.

This subject will cover the following topics:

Why mental health for paramedics?
The impact of stress and distress on paramedic wellbeing;
Building your resilience and maintaining your mental wellbeing;
Mental State Examination;
Mental illness in all populations, inclusive of First Nations people and diverse populations;
Drug and alcohol disorders;
Building a therapeutic relationship;
Responding to challenging behaviours;
Risk assessment and handover;
Legal and ethical issues;
Consumer and carer perspectives to include cultural diversity;
Pharmacology; and
Knowledge transfer to paramedic practice.

Assessment items

1. Self-reflection Journal

2. Case study 1

3. Case study 2

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

describe and explain key mental health disorders/illnesses, assess their prevalence in all population groups, including First Nations people and diverse populations, clinical features, associated crises or emergencies that may arise with these conditions, evidence-based pharmacological and psychological treatments and relevant mental health services;

identify a range of psychological strategies to use throughout a career in paramedicine that will support emotional wellbeing and resilience and reduce vulnerability to mental health problems such as anxiety, depression and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD);

apply and demonstrate skills in mental state examination, mental health assessment, risk assessment, structured handover, de-escalation and behavioural management of people inclusive of First Nations people and diverse populations, who are experiencing a mental health crisis and/or are drug affected;

describe and explain the use of current mental health legislation and underpinning ethical principles that must inform clinical practice in situations where the person may be mentally, behaviourally or cognitively impaired;

identify and analyse research related to paramedicine's role in responding to people with mental illness, to developing a resilient paramedic workforce and early intervention for front-line health professionals experiencing early indicators of mental distress and trauma; and

identify and demonstrate skills for effective therapeutic relationships including the identification of barriers to effective communication and, how to engage in culturally appropriate care/communication for First Nations people and their families.

Assumed knowledge

As a student undertaking this subject you will have knowledge and skills gained from your previous years of study and clinical placements in the degree.

Enrolment restrictions

This subject is restricted to students enrolled in the Bachelor of Paramedicine and Bachelor of Paramedicine (Honours).

Enrolment in the online/distance offering is for online students only.

Incompatible

Learning activities

Intensive School

In this subject, students will participate in an intensive school aimed at familiarising themselves with equipment, developing skills, and cultivating clinical judgment and rationale for the care of individuals with mental illness.

The primary goal of the intensive school is to provide students with hands-on experience in a secure learning environment, allowing them to demonstrate and practice clinical skills and treatments; this ensures that students receive prompt feedback and support during the learning process. Attendance at the Intensive School will prepare you for assessments two and three in the subject.

Duration1 days

Learning resources

Additional resources required by students

Students attending compulsory intensive schools on Charles Sturt campuses will incur costs associated with travel, accommodation and required resources.

Handbook

CLS247 - Mental Health for Paramedicine