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NUR557 - Orthopaedic Nursing

2025

Sector

Higher Education

Discipline

Nursing

Credit Points

Equivalent Units

Prerequisites

Incompatible

Assumed Knowledge

Unit Description

This unit supports the registered nurse in extending their knowledge in skills in caring for patients who required orthopaedic surgery. Building upon existing knowledge of the musculoskeletal system the unit explores best practice in orthopaedic assessment skills. Students will use evidence to extend their knowledge of orthopaedic conditions across the lifespan and their related surgical interventions to provide safe person-centred nursing care. The unit utilises inquiry-based learning and case studies to explore the implications of living with orthopaedic conditions and their surgical management using a holistic approach.

Important Information

This unit is only available to students enrolled in the USURN1 Graduate Certificate of Surgical Nursing and SCNU01 Master of Clinical Nursing.

Unit Learning Outcomes

1.	Articulate the anatomy of the musculoskeletal system and discuss the underpinning pathophysiology of diseases that leads to orthopaedic surgical intervention.
2.	Conduct holistic and comprehensive assessment of patients that require and receive orthopaedic surgical interventions.
3.	Critically review and apply evidence to the provision of person centred care for patients that have undergone orthopaedic surgery.
4.	Collaboratively design and develop a culturally safe person-centred care plan
5.	Critically analyse and justify the care provided to patients who require orthopaedic surgery drawing on contemporary evidence.

Assessment Overview

	Assessment Task	Value (of total mark)	Related Learning Outcome/s
1.	Test (20 minutes)	10%	1,2'
2.	Case Study (3000 words)	50%	1,2,3,4,5'
3.	Professional Portfolio (equivalent 2500 words)	40%	2,3,4,5'

Unit Availability

Year	Semester	Att Mode	Location	Learning Method	Timetable*
2025	Semester 1	External	External Studies	OLR	View

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OLR: Internet access is required for this unit as students are required to access study materials provided on-line through Learnline. Please log into Learnline on the first day of each teaching period. For more information about Learnline, please click here.

Critical Dates

Important Dates for Students

Fee Information:
Fees and Payments
Student Services and Amenities Fees
2025 Domestic Unit Fees (PDF)