Lymphoedema Practice for the Head and Neck Region

Delivered by

Australian Lymphoedema Education, Research and Treatment (ALERT) Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences

Description

This is one of a series of microcredentials examining lymphoedema management for a specific region of the body. In this microcredential, you will develop an understanding and insight into how lymphoedema of the head and neck region impacts an individual physically, functionally, psychologically, and financially. You will cover comprehensive assessment, clinical reasoning, communication and management skills to treat lymphoedema of the head and neck region using complex lymphoedema therapy (CLT). You will explore latest evidence-based practice such as the theory of normal and abnormal lymphatic drainage pathways and patterns identified by Indocyanine Green (ICG) Lymphography for effective manual lymphatic drainage massage, compression therapy, exercise prescription, education, and psychological well-being. You will be encouraged to reflect on your own development. This microcredential will assist your development of all four graduate capabilities: Scientist and Scholar, Clinical Practitioner, Engaged Global Citizen and Professional. 

Learning Outcomes
The learning outcomes are aligned to the graduate capabilities. 

1. Demonstrate knowledge of scientific literature and evidence based best practice for the assessment and management of lymphoedema of the head and neck region (Scientist and Scholar) 

2. Demonstrate safe and effective, patient-centred skills and competencies in delivering high quality assessment and management strategies for treating lymphoedema of the head and neck region (Clinical Practitioner) 

3. Demonstrate effective communication skills in the context of patient-centred care and engagement with members of multidisciplinary teams (Clinical Practitioner) 

4. Adapt assessment and intervention plans to meet needs of individuals from distinct social and/or cultural groups to ensure culturally respectful care for people with lymphoedema of the head and neck region (Engaged Global Citizen) 

5. Use feedback from teachers, clinicians, peers and patients to inform self-evaluation and critical reflection of knowledge and skill development (Professional) 

Skills

• Written assessment and treatment plan 

• Assessment Techniques – palpation, ROM, ALOHA, PWC 

• MLD clinical skills 

• Compression prescription clinical skills 

• Person-centred care 

Delivery details

• Online learning and assessment

• Face-to-face practical learning

• Assessment 

Activities

• Forum Activities

• Case Studies 

Assessment

• Assessment Task 1 – Quiz/Test (20%)

• Assessment Task 2 – Case Study Assessment (20%)

• Assessment Task 3 - Clinical skills assessment (60%) 

Hours (volume of learning)

75 hours (55 hours of online learning and assessment, and 20 hours of practical learning and assessment)

Recognised by

Australasian Lymphology Association 

Credit points and associated AQF Level/s

5 credit points at AQF Level 7