Adolescent Healthcare: Meeting the Challenge Level 6 6KNIE610

This course is framed by the WHO Orientation Programme on Adolescent Health which recognises that a range of individuals and institutions have important roles in promoting healthy development in adolescents and young people, and in preventing and responding to health problems challenging this population group. Health-care providers (HCP) have important contributions to make in both these areas. However, research carried out in different parts of the world point to shortcomings in their professional capabilities and in their 'human qualities' as a result of which they are unable and oftentimes unwilling to deal with adolescents in an effective and sensitive manner. This course aims to bridge that gap.

The main general subject areas to be covered are:

• definition of adolescence and young people and bio-psychosocial development during adolescence
• the setting and family influences and dynamics epidemiology and priorities, including needs assessment confidentiality, consent, rights, access and personal advocacy communication and clinical skills such as conflict resolution, multidisciplinary working & networking, transfer from child to adult services
• the impact of the environmental context: socio-economic, cultural, ethnic and gender issues
• issues concerning resources, resilience, exploratory and risk behaviours
• health education and promotion, including school health

On successful completion of the module, the student will be able to:

• Demonstrate a good knowledge and understanding of normal and abnormal growth and development (biological, psychological, social and family) of adolescents.
• Examine and determine the sociological, psychological and biological determinants of health and illness as experienced by the client/patient.
• Appraise current services’ ability to promote the health of young person’s using the WHO Orientation Programme on Adolescent Health as the framework for delivering preventive services
• Understand major causes and effects of, and acceptable prevention/intervention strategies for the health and psychosocial morbidities affecting youth.
• Demonstrate problem-solving skills with youth and interact therapeutically with adolescents from different racial, cultural, and socioeconomic groups and different family structures and lifestyles.
• Understand the issues involved in adolescents with chronic impairments and their families particularly as they relate to adaptation around transitional periods.
• Demonstrate a working understanding of the principles of advocacy identifying and facilitating ways of increasing the young person’s participation in their care and service developments.
• Translate relevant health and social policies, examine political philosophies and identify their impact on health and social care service provisions
• Evaluate perception of their role, re-examine professional practices and competencies in relation to the client group
• Review and discuss current research findings and their potential application and utilisation in practice.
• Collaborate and contribute as part of a multidisciplinary team, having knowledge of health planning, policy and administration.
• Set and pursue clear learning goals, exploit new opportunities for intellectual and professional growth in a manner such that behaviour is consistent with beliefs.

Qualified healthcare professionals

Essay 2000 words

Term 2 -

24/01/2023, 31/01, 07/02, 14/02