Neurological Physiotherapy is a foundation practice area in the Masters of Physiotherapy Course. It requires students to draw on and apply previous biomedical knowledge to interpret clinical scenarios involving the neurological system through the use of case-based learning, simulation and practical activities within the workshops. The unit aims to provide students with the advanced theoretical knowledge, communication skills and management strategies required to critically analyse and clinically reason through acute and chronic neurological presentations across the lifespan; and to safely assess and manage these conditions in line with evidence- based practice and person- centred care. These skills are an essential component of work ready practice.

Unit details

Location:
VU Sunshine Clinical School
Study level:
Undergraduate
Credit points:
12
Unit code:
HPT4003

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
  1. Apply and further develop foundation anatomical and physiological knowledge relevant to neurological based clinical presentations;  
  2. Develop evidence based clinical reasoning and critical thinking skills through a case-based learning approach and develop a person-centered, prioritized problem list;  
  3. Safely and effectively assess and manage common neurological presentations across the lifespan and inclusive of indigenous and culturally diverse patient populations;  
  4. Evaluate and reflect on treatment outcomes, devise targeted plans for ongoing management and effectively communicate this to specialist and non-specialist audiences; and  
  5. Execute constructive peer review and critical self-reflective practice utilising the peer assisted learning model.  

Assessment

Assessment type Description Grade
Test Test (30 mins) 15%
Case Study Scenario (Modified Essay Question) (1 hour) 30%
Other Peer review and self-reflective practice (750 words) 15%
Examination Practical Skills Assessment: OSCE station-based examination (30 mins) 40%

Required reading

Stroke rehabilitation: guidelines for exercise and training to optimize motor skill 1st ed.
Carr, J. H., & Shepherd, R. B. (2003)
Butterworth-Heinemann.

Neurological physiotherapy pocketbook 2nd ed.
Lennon, S., Ramdharry, G., & Verheyden, G. (2018)
Elsevier

Where to next?

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following courses. Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course.

VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.