Essential knowledge: The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively do the task outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit, manage the task and manage contingencies in the context of the identified work role This includes knowledge of: Statistical incidence of diabetes, heart disease and kidney failure in Aboriginal populations compared to the non-Aboriginal population In relation to cardiovascular diseases: the concept of 'cardiovascular risk factors', the significance of an individual having multiple risk factors and the concept of 'high absolute risk' the importance of reduction of saturated fats and sugar-sweetened soft drinks, increased physical activity and smoking cessation in reducing the risk of heart and kidney disease in Aboriginal population In relation to diabetes mellitus: basic pathophysiology of type II contrasted with type I diabetes mellitus complications of diabetes (including heart disease and stroke; renal failure; retinal damage and blindness; nerve damage and infection resulting in amputation; impotence) the main elements of the 'diabetes checkup' the procedure for taking retinal photographs basic anatomical features and abnormalities on a retinal photograph the content of client education for diabetes covering diet, physical activity, foot-care, and use of diabetes medicines In relation to chronic renal disease: basic pathophysiology of chronic renal failure (causes, body systems affected, natural history) factors, which may worsen or accelerate renal failure (including: high blood pressure, anti-inflammatory drugs, poor diabetes control, dehydration, high protein diet) clinical features of advanced renal failure the importance of early detection of renal disease in efforts to defer or prevent end-stage renal failure options for treatment of end-stage renal failure (haemodialysis, chronic ambulatory peritoneal dialysis, transplant). The dilemmas and difficulties faced by Aboriginal people and their families who need to relocate to distant centres in order to access dialysis treatment Familiarity with a range of other common chronic conditions in Aboriginal populations: chronic liver disease - causes, clinical features and principles of management (including hepatitis B, hepatitis C, alcoholic liver disease and cirrhosis) chronic obstructive lung disease, relationship to smoking and principles of management major types of chronic disability (psychiatric, physical and mental) continued ... |