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NUR556 - Gastrointestinal Surgical Nursing

2026

Sector

Higher Education

Discipline

Nursing

Credit Points

Equivalent Units

Prerequisites

Incompatible

Coerequisites

Must be enrolled in course version {SCNU01, USURN1}

Assumed Knowledge

Unit Description

This unit supports the registered nurse to extend their knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the gastrointestinal system and best practice patient assessment. Current knowledge will be extended to support safe person-centred nursing care that is guided by contemporary evidence and research of gastrointestinal conditions and related surgical interventions. The unit utilises inquiry-based learning and case studies to explore the implications of living with gastrointestinal conditions and the patient's recovery from surgery.

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

Assessment Overview

	Assessment Task	Value (of total mark)	Related Learning Outcome/s
1.	Test (20 mintues)	10%	1,2'
2.	Case Study (3000 words)	45%	1,2,3,4,5'
3.	Professional Portfolio (equivalent 2500 words)	45%	2,3,4,5'

Unit Availability

Year	Semester	Att Mode	Location	Learning Method	Timetable*
2026	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
2026 Domestic Unit Fees (PDF)
2026 Incidental Fees (PDF)