99668 Clinic Level 2 and Acupuncture Techniques 1
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Subject handbook information prior to 2025 is available in the Archives.
Credit points: 6 cp
Result type: Grade and marks
Requisite(s): 99667 Clinical Theory and Clinic Level 1 AND 99641 Point Location and Acupuncture Anatomy AND 92227 Communication for Healthcare Professionals
Anti-requisite(s): 94680 Entering Professional Life (6cp) AND 94681 Entering Professional Life (8cp)
Description
Approximately 30 per cent of the undergraduate training program is devoted to gaining clinical experience in preparation for becoming a qualified traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioner. The subject is split into two modules:
- Module 1 builds on previous clinical training subjects and acquaints students with the skills and duties required by a 'student practitioner' working in the University's outpatient clinics. Students must satisfactorily complete requisite clinical hours.
- Module 2 introduces basic theoretical constructs for the application of various acupuncture techniques. Practical needling experience is introduced within the workshops. Participation in needling workshops is compulsory. Students are also introduced to the full set of Jing Luo pathways.
Subject learning objectives (SLOs)
Upon successful completion of this subject students should be able to:
| 1. | Apply effective professional and communication skills in a clinical setting. |
|---|---|
| 2. | Select and apply simple symptomatic treatments. |
| 3. | Apply energic balancing techniques on the basis of general pulse discrimination. |
| 4. | Demonstrate practical skill in basic needle insertion and manipulation, moxibustion techniques, cupping, application of dermal hammer, scraping and use of the prismatic needle. |
| 5. | Define and demonstrate the principles of tonification and sedation by placement and manipulation of the needle. |
| 6. | Apply knowledge and procedures to reduce the potential risk of harm and adverse events when needling points and applying Chinese manual therapies to different body regions. |
| 7. | Define the energic action of major points and demonstrate the clinical integration and application of information from prior subjects. |
| 8. | Identify the key features of the jing luo pathways and acupuncture points and comment on their practical application. |
Course intended learning outcomes (CILOs)
This subject also contributes specifically to the development of following course intended learning outcomes:
- Apply: Demonstrate expertise in Chinese medicine’s classical and contemporary theories, research, and clinical health practices to support patient health and wellbeing. (1.1)
- Apply: Develop effective problem-focused assessment skills to differentiate diseases and patterns, and apply clinical reasoning to make diagnostic and therapeutic judgements. (2.1)
- Apply: Demonstrate the integration and application of professional health care knowledge and clinical skills to safely and ethically practise Chinese medicine. (3.1)
- Apply: Demonstrate a high level of writing, reading and speaking in English and an ability to engage constructively in conversation with health stakeholders, including community, other health disciplines, and policy makers. (5.1)
Contribution to the development of graduate attributes
1. Disciplinary Knowledge:
This subject will build on the introductory material from first session of first year and begin to explore the application of that knowledge in a practical context. In addition to the formal classroom delivery of new material on channel pathways, all the assessments within this subject provide practical implementation of knowledge either within the UTS practitioner clinic or within the practical workshops.
2.Research, Inquiry and Critical Thinking:
The oral presentations, case history assignment, Case Reports and essay portion of the formal final examination all exercise development of an inquiry-orientated approach. Student will need to research and present information on acupuncture point functions and interactions within the basic acupuncture treatment frameworks introduced in lectures.
3. Professional, Ethical and Social Responsibility:
Skills of cupping, application of various forms of moxibustion, clinic management and patient interviewing are just a few which are addressed and practically applied throughout the session. Students will begin practical needling classes and will need to show technical competency in the application of basic acupuncture skills.
5. Communication:
Communication skills are developed across many areas. Professional jargon is used to communicate amongst peers and academic staff and is required for data input into the clinic’s computer database. History taking develops an appreciation for the nuances of the English language and highlights the potential problems of extracting appropriate information without leading the patient. Phone skills are addressed through management of the front desk within the clinic. Academic writing skills are developed through the case history assignment.
Teaching and learning strategies
Module 1 Clinic
Level 2 clinical assistant – 25 hours
Approximately 30% of your training program is devoted to gaining clinical experience in preparation for the role of qualified Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner. This component acquaints you with essential skills and requirements for patient care in the practice of TCM. There will be opportunities for discussion and feedback between practitioners and peers from the beginning and throughout the clinical experience.
Clinical placements are undertaken either externally or within UTS clinics on rostered clinical days. Each clinical shift is normally 5 hours in duration. You need only attend your rostered days. Only 50% of clinical hours can be completed externally and only with approved practitioners. External clinical placements will only be approved for Clinic Levels 2-6 inclusive. All clinical hours must be completed within the specified session.
Module 2 Acupuncture Techniques 1
11 x 2 hour lectures
11 x 2 hour practical workshops
Acupuncture treatment technique workshops provide a practical application for the first year subjects of physiology, diagnosis and point location. You will have the opportunity to work with other students to apply basic therapeutic skills for minor disorders. What you will learn is also a foundation for the later practice / skills based subjects.
Practical workshops are designed to directly follow lectures. Hence lectures and workshops are normally delivered within one time slot. The length of each workshop may differ from week to week depending upon the length of the related lecture. You will do preparatory work using e-readings in UTSOnline to practice learning the channel pathways and related concepts. This will prepare you for the lectures and practical application in workshops. Additional material relating to the jing luo will be supplied at the first class.
Consent and Professional Practise
This subject includes experiential learning undertaken within a clinical learning environment. Students will have the opportunity to engage in both the practise of the techniques as well as receiving them in the patient practitioner role play scenario. This may involve exposure of appropriately draped body regions, physical practise including palpation, and interventions related to manual therapies such as massage, cupping, gua sha, and needling. Third party observation from class and teaching participants may occur. Teaching activities are designed carefully with consideration to clinical practice and procedure guidelines but there may remain possible risks and inconvenience. Consequently, consent is always required in these situations and sufficient detail must be provided outlining the benefits, purpose and potential risks of harm so that individuals may freely accept or decline participation. Consent is a continuous process and changes to expected participation during the course of the learning activity requires further consent. You must always consent anyone you are working with for these techniques and participation always remains voluntary. No student will ever be required to participate in these activities, and they will always be opt in participation, and there will be no effect on your relationship with staff, UTS or study opportunities. If you wish to withdraw from the learning activity once it has started, you can do so at any time without having to give a reason. Should participation become uncomfortable or the participant distressed while engage in learning activities, they continue to have the right to withdraw consent.
Content (topics)
Module 1
Students will assist practitioners as directed including:
- clnical record keeping and filling, patient confidentiality,
- managing appointments, telephone inquiries, patient care, clinic care, dress, assisting the practitioner,
- maintaining professional communication, with the patients, the practitioner and with fellow students,
- maintaining aseptic requirements for the practice of acupuncture, sharps disposal, the use of disposable needles, gloving,
- use of clinic equipment: laser, electro-stimulator, their operation and application,
- basic tuina (massage) techniques,
- standards of cleanliness required for the provision of Chinese herbal services,
- maintaining a herbal dispensary: checking stock, re-ordering and ensuring a clean dispensing area,
- assisting the supervisor or practitioner as requested,
- preparing and tidying of treatment rooms and
- assisting in the dispensary.
Module 2:
Students will engage in:
- basic symptomatic application of acupuncture by exploring the key general features and functions of the acupuncture points wthin their categories including, front-mu, back-shu, yuan and luo points.
- energic application: regulation of qi as indicated by the pulse, use of command points and movement of energy.
- demonstrating basic needle insertion and the application of specific needle manipulation methods (lifting/ thrusting, rotation and scratching).
- demonstrating the methods of point stimulation and their significance in terms of tonification and sedation techniques.
- demonstrating basic insertion of the needle to the required depth and angle.
- explaining the contraindications and cautions that relate to the application of needling.
- demonstrating the use of aseptic technique in needling.
- demonstrating indirect moxibustion (moxa on ginger/garlic, suspended, sparrow-pecking, ironing) and cupping techniques (stationary, gliding, quick, shaking, lifting).
- identifying the functions, therapeutic aims, contraindications and cautions of moxibustion and cupping treatment.
- applying the proportional measurement method used in acupuncture point location.
- practical exercises to trace the jing luo system (main, internal, cutaneous, sinew, divergent, longitudinal and transverse luo), the distribution and connection of the various components on a human model to explain the significance of the symptoms and signs associated with disorders of the jing luo system.
- identification and location of a selection of major points of the channels and major extra-ordinary channel points.
- analysing the principles of point selection (according to the ten laws method, root/branch theory and movement of energy through the five phases).
- tracing the composition of the jing luo system to develop a basic understanding of the various functions of specific channels.
Assessment
Assessment task 1: Clinical Assessments and Case Reports
| Intent: | The following graduate attributes are addressed in this task 1. Disciplinary Knowledge 2. Research, Inquiry and Critical Thinking 3. Professional, Ethical and Social Responsibility 5. Communication |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses subject learning objective(s): 1 This assessment task contributes to the development of course intended learning outcome(s): 1.1, 2.1, 3.1 and 5.1 |
| Type: | Case study |
| Groupwork: | Individual |
| Weight: | 30% |
| Criteria: | Clinical performance is evaluated against criterion referenced performance measures based on competencies that must be met to the satisfaction of clinical supervisors (detailed criteria available online). |
Assessment task 2: Practice Workshops
| Intent: | The following graduate attributes are addressed In this task 1. Disciplinary Knowledge 2. Research, Inquiry and Critical Thinking 3. Professional, Ethical and Social Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses subject learning objective(s): 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 This assessment task contributes to the development of course intended learning outcome(s): .0, .0 and .0 |
| Type: | Exercises |
| Groupwork: | Individual |
| Weight: | 20% |
| Criteria: | Criterion referenced performance measures based on competencies that must be met to the satisfaction of tutors (refer to assessment section of the course notes) |
Assessment task 3: Case History
| Intent: | The following attributes will be addressed: 1. Disciplinary Knowledge 2. Research, Inquiry and Critical Thinking 5. Communication |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses subject learning objective(s): 2, 7 and 8 This assessment task contributes to the development of course intended learning outcome(s): .0, .0 and .0 |
| Type: | Essay |
| Groupwork: | Individual |
| Weight: | 50% |
| Length: | 1000 - 2000 words +/- 10% |
| Criteria: | Refer to assessment marking criteria sheet in the course notes |
Assessment task 4: Point Location Exam (Pass/Fail Task)
| Intent: | The following attributes will be addressed: 1. Disciplinary Knowledge 2. Research, Inquiry and Critical Thinking 3. Professional, Ethical and Social Responsibility 5. Communication |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses subject learning objective(s): 1, 2, 7 and 8 This assessment task contributes to the development of course intended learning outcome(s): .0, .0, .0 and .0 |
| Type: | Examination |
| Groupwork: | Individual |
| Weight: | Mandatory task that does not contribute to subject mark |
| Length: | 20 minutes |
| Criteria: | 22 points out of 25 must be answered correctly (location and function) |
Minimum requirements
To successfully complete this subject you must:
- Complete all assessment tasks
- Submit assignments on time
- 'Pass' the Point Location exam
- Attend 80% (9 out of 11) clinical practice workshops
Students must obtain at least 40% of the marks available for an assesment task weighted at 40% or greater in order to pass this subject. If 40% is not reached, an X grade fail may be awarded for the subject, irrespective of an overall mark greater than 50. In addition, students must receive at least 50% overall.
'Special Consideration' in relation to attendance cannot be considered as the clinical workshops are practical in focus and involve both teaching and assessment of practical treatment skills. Though it is understood that you may not be able to attend class due to illness or extraordinary circumstances, the lack of attendance means that your clinical competencies cannot be adequately assessed nor the situation remediated should competencies prove unsatisfactory overall. Consequently minimum attendance is mandatory.
A X grade (fail), regardless of the final mark, will be awarded where the minimum criteria are not met.
In relation to clinical placements and practice workshops, you are expected to:
- behave in an ethical manner;
- observe University clinical policies and procedures;
- observe relevant State and Federal regulations;
- maintain a duty of care to patients and fellow students, and
- demonstrate an acceptable level of professional conduct.
Where a student fails to comply to minimum standards or a reasonable direction from an officer of the University, they may be asked to cease attendance at clinic or practical workshops and/or be awarded an X grade (fail).
Q grades may be awarded where outstanding clinic hours remain.
Required texts
Clinic Level 2 & Acupuncture Techniques Course Notes and Jing Luo Course Notes (available from Carolyn Michaeil)
Recommended texts
Module 1
- Walsh S. (2006) Clinical procedures and safe clinical practice: A guide for students and supervisors. Sydney, UTS.
- Forrester K, Griffiths D. (2005) Essentials of law for health professionals. 2nd ed. Marrickville; Elsevier Mosby.
Module 2
- Meier, P (current) Clinic Level 2: Course Notes. Sydney: UTS.
- Cheng, X. (ed.) (1987) Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion. Foreign Languages Press, Beijing.
- Chirali I. (1999) Traditional Chinese medicine cupping therapy. Churchill Livingstone. Edinburgh. Deadman, P. & Al-Khafaji, M. (1998) A Manual of Acupuncture. Journal of Chinese Medicine Publishing, London.
- Rogers C and Rogers C. (2207) Point Location and Point Dynamics Manual, Australian College of Acupuncturists, Sydney
References
Module 1
- Weir M.(2000) Complementary medicine: ethics and law. Brisbane; Promethius Publications.
Module 2
- Auteroche, B., Gervis, G. Auteroche, M. Navailh, P. and Toui-Kan, E. (1992). Acupuncture and Moxibustion. A Guide to Clinical Practice. Churchill Livingstone, London.
- Chen, E. (1995). Cross-sectional Anatomy of Acupoints. Churchill Livingstone, Edinburgh.
- Deng, T (1999) Practical Diagnosis in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Churchill Livingstone. Edinburgh.
- Ellis, Andrew & Wiseman, Nigel (1996). Fundamentals of Chinese Medicine. Paradigm Publications: Brookline, Massachusetts.
- Ellis A., Wiseman N. and Boss K. (1989) Grasping the Wind,: Paradigm Publications. Brookline, Massachusetts.
- Maciocia, G. (2006) The Channels of Acupuncture: Clinical Use of the Secondary Channels and Eight Extraordinary Vessels. Churchill Livingstone, Edinburgh.
- Maciocia, G. (2005) The Foundations of Chinese Medicine: A Comprehensive Text for Acupuncturists and Herbalists. Churchill Livingstone, Edinburgh.
- Maciocia, G. (1994). The Practice of Chinese Medicine. Churchill Livingstone. Edinburgh.
- Qiu, M.L. (1993). (Ed.). Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion. Churchill Livingstone. Edinburgh.
- Pirog, J.E. (1996) The Practical Application of Meridian Style Acupuncture. Pacific View Press, Berkeley California.
- Ross, J. (1995) Acupuncture Point Combinations Churchill Livingstone.
- London Wang, Q. (1990). Chinese Massage Therapy. Shandong Science and Technology Press: Shandong, China.
- Xinnong, C. (1987). (Ed.). Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion. Foreign Languages press, Beijing