University of Technology Sydney

090009 Therapeutic Communication in Reproductive Health

Warning: The information on this page is indicative. The subject outline for a particular session, location and mode of offering is the authoritative source of all information about the subject for that offering. Required texts, recommended texts and references in particular are likely to change. Students will be provided with a subject outline once they enrol in the subject.

Subject handbook information prior to 2024 is available in the Archives.

UTS: Health
Credit points: 6 cp
Result type: Grade and marks

There are course requisites for this subject. See access conditions.

Description

Health practitioners working in reproduction and fertility require well-developed therapeutic communication skills and a sound understanding of the psychosocial issues associated with infertility. This subject is based on a population health approach to enable mental health promotion and the early recognition of protective and risk factors that impact during assisted reproduction and early pregnancy. Psychological wellbeing is explored using understandings of cultural constructs and students develop the skills to critically discuss community perceptions about infertility. Skills in interviewing and assessment are developed, and students explore best practice approaches for the management of psychosocial and mental health impacts as they relate to the consumer and themselves.

Subject learning objectives (SLOs)

Upon successful completion of this subject students should be able to:
1. Identify and utilize effective therapeutic communication skills for collaborative practice with consumers of assisted reproduction services
2. Critically explore emotional and mental health factors associated with infertility and the related interventions
3. Appraise and utilize supportive and therapeutic interventions for health care consumers at risk of, or experiencing, anxiety, grief, emotional distress or other mental health issue, including appropriate referrals for mental health interventions
4. Describe the principles of collaborative practice when working with health care practitioners, consumers and their families

Assessment

Assessment task 1: Topic-based online discussion boards

Weight: 30%

Assessment task 2: Best practice psychosocial care in ART: PPT presentation

Weight: 40%

Assessment task 3: Simulation of fertility interview and assessment

Weight: 30%