Overview

This topic focuses on the clinical aspects of managing the dying process and appropriate communication skills to support it. Students will gain an understanding of the diversity of views on death and dying in contemporary Australia from medical, socio-cultural and personal perspectives.   Modules will explore ethical decision making in end-of-life care, managing the deceased and communicating the complexity of taboos, fears and anxieties around death with patients and families.

Intended Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate an understanding of the diversity of views on death and dying in contemporary Australia from medical, socio-cultural and personal perspectives.
• Incorporate ethical decision making in end-of-life care in partnership with patients and families.
• Discuss both the patient-focused and systemic processes involved in managing the deceased.
• Develop extended communication skills to navigate the complexities of taboos, fears and anxieties around discussing death.