Oncology and Palliative Care of Patients (MDAK_308)
About Study Course
Objective
Acquire knowledge in tumour epidemiology, tumour biology, understand prevention in oncology, to know the main methods of investigation in the diagnosis of oncological diseases, understand tumour treatment methods and the main principles of therapy, to know and understand the concept of quality of life in oncology, understand the principles of palliative care. Provide the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge of the characteristics, assessment, monitoring of palliative care by applying a model of holistic care in maintaining quality of life.
Prerequisites
Pathological physiology, Clinical pharmacology and medical care, Philosophy and Medical Ethics, Transcultural Care, Internal Diseases and Patient Care.
Learning outcomes
As a result of course acquisition, the student gains basic knowledge in the tumour classification, knows primary, secondary and tertiary prevention methods. Understands, defines the epidemiology of the most common tumours, methods for diagnosing tumours and understands TNM and other methods of tumour classification. Recognizes the clinical manifestations of tumours, formulates the effectiveness of the various tumour therapy techniques. Recognises and evaluates patients' emotional reactions and integrate this knowledge in contact with cancer patients and their relatives. As a result of studying the course, students will be able to define and describe the aims and guidelines of palliative care. Will be able to explain and define the care problems and needs of incurable patients.
As a result of course acquisition, the student will be able to provide and perform oncological patient care, following a pattern of holistic care. Student will be able to identify and analyze care problems at different stages of cancer treatment. Will be able to identify the problems and needs of patients with palliative care. Will be able to take care of a dying patient.
Name and systemise the most common tumours in Latvia, as well as formulate and systemise risk factors for different tumours. Use the TNM classification to assess the spread of the disease, assess the special features of oncological and palliative patient care.
Understanding and ability to assess, compare and interpret epidemiological data of tumours, disease prevalence, diagnostic and therapy capabilities.
The ability to anticipate and address the different characteristics of care for oncological patients and their families.
Develop and prioritise care in the case of palliative patient care, and raise awareness of the psychological, social and mental care of these patients and the care of their families during the grief period.
The ability to analyse situations, argue, logically articulate and explain own point of view.
