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NUR569 - Mental Health Care for Substance Use Disorder

2026

Sector

Higher Education

Discipline

Nursing

Credit Points

Unit Level

500

Equivalent Units

Prerequisites

Incompatible

Coerequisites

Assumed Knowledge

Unit Description

This unit aims to enhance skills in managing substance use disorders. It emphasises the importance of tailoring care to meet individual needs, understanding the cultural contexts of clients, and applying critical self-reflection to improve clinical outcomes. Through a blend of theoretical knowledge and case-based learning, students will be equipped with the knowledge and strategies necessary to provide effective, compassionate, and culturally sensitive care to individuals with substance use disorders.

Important Information

This unit is only available to students enrolled in the UMHLN1 Graduate Certificate of Mental Health Nursing and SCNU01 Master of Clinical Nursing.

Unit Learning Outcomes

1.	Articulate the pathophysiology of addiction, including the neurological, psychological, and physiological processes that underpin substance use disorders.
2.	Conduct holistic and comprehensive assessments on clients with substance use disorder.
3.	Critically reflect on the impact of addiction stigma within healthcare settings and on the experiences of clients with substance use disorders.
4.	Develop holistic, person-centered and culturally safe care plans for consumers.
5.	Critically analyse and justify the care provided to clients with substance use disorder drawing on contemporary evidence.

Assessment Overview

	Assessment Task	Value (of total mark)	Related Learning Outcome/s
1.	Reflection/reflective journal (750 words)	10%	1,2,3'
2.	Written Assessment (2500 words)	45%	1,3,4,5'
3.	Literature Review (2500 words)	45%	1,2,3,4,5

Unit Availability

Year	Semester	Att Mode	Location	Learning Method	Timetable*
2026	Semester 2	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)