Appropriate use of Antimicrobials & Common Infections in Aged Care

Course Description and Application

This module explores key requirements for ensuring antimicrobials are prescribed and administered according to best practice guidance.

It explains factors contributing to infection risk in the elderly and the principles of antimicrobial management which contribute to successful Antimicrobial Stewardship.

Prescribing guidelines are discussed, as well as the concept of broad versus narrow spectrum antimicrobials, and special considerations for antimicrobial use in aged care residents.

The efficacy of antimicrobials can be optimised and the risk of adverse effects minimised by awareness of important administration and use instructions which are explained.

The appropriate use of topical antimicrobials, particularly antifungal/corticosteroid preparations such as Hydrozole are highlighted.

Key points regarding the management and use of antimicrobials for common infections in the elderly – urinary tract infections, respiratory infections including pneumonia, and skin infections including cellulitis and wound/ulcer infections – complete this highly informative and relevant learning course.

Although there are no prerequisites for this unit of competency.

It is recommended that the student is currently employed entering into a role requiring them to dispense medication. The student will also be required to meet the foundation skills when enroling into this unit of competency. The target group for this program is typically existing workers within the health care industry who will be expected to administer medication or assist clients with the administration of medication.

Existing workers include:
• Disability Support Worker
• Aged Care Worker
• Community Care Worker
• Personal Care Worker
• Respite Care Worker

After completing this course students are able to administer medication in the following settings:
• Healthcare services
• Disability services
• NDIS services
• Community services
• Enrolled or registered nurse
• Personal caregiver

This course is delivered as a standalone unit of competency. Sample Timetable:

Unit/s of competency Hours Delivery mode
THEORY DAY HLTHPS006
Assist clients with Medication Day 1 of 2
7.5 1 x full day workshop (Face to Face or Virtual)
Skill Test – ASSESSMENT DAY
HLTHPS006 Assist clients with Medication Day 2 of 2 . A workplace observation assessment and supervisor report is required to complete this course
7.5 1 x full day workshop (Face to Face)
SUPPORT SESSION
Access to assessor and LLN support (not mandatory)
2 MS Teams

Supervisor Report and Workplace observation
You will be required to get a supervisor report as part of the assessment gathering for this course. Workplace Observation will also be conducted on a day that is planned between yourself and your MediLearn trainer and assessor.

Student Support
MediLearn is committed to providing each individual student with a positive and enjoyable learning experience that will serve to enhance their existing skill set.
Our caring one-to-one approach offers students the following support services:
• Discussion between student and their trainer/assessor about the student’s needs
• Arrangements for additional one-to-one advice where possible between student and trainer/assessor
• On-going monitoring of the student’s progress by trainer/assessor, to ensure successful learning outcomes through student feedback as outlined below

For further information relating to how MediLearn provides support to students refer to the Student Handbook found on the MediLearn’s website: https://www.medilearn.com.au/

Completion
At the end of this program student will be awarded a Statement of Attainment for the nationally recognised unit of Competency. HLTHPS006 Assist clients with medication MediLearn does not engage with any third parties for the delivery and assessment of this course and does not guarantee that a student will successful complete this course or particular employment outcomes.

During this course you will gain the skills and knowledge to:

1. Prepare to assist with medication
2. Prepare the client for assistance with administration of medication
3. Support clients with administration of medication
4. Handle medication contingencies
5. Complete medication distribution and documentation

You will be given two week access of the online portal after the end date of your course. Assessments will be able to be completed in class time on Assessment day. For further information relating to logging into the Student Login contact the MediLearn Communication and Training Coordinator or send an email to student@medilearn.com.Include your full name and contact number in your email.

Course Details

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