Outline

Overview

This unit of study integrates pharmaceutical sciences and pharmacy-practice content relating to the treatment of neurological and mental health conditions. The unit will cover the pharmaceutical sciences that underpin drug therapies used in managing these conditions; the physiology, epidemiology, pathophysiology and clinical features of the conditions; and practice-related aspects from dispensing to professional pharmacy services. Knowledge gained is applied in case-based scenarios, workshops and role plays, where students have the opportunity to assimilate the learnt information and apply them to optimise the pharmacological and non-pharmacological management of patients with these conditions.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Pharmacy
Credit points	12
Prerequisites ?	(BIOL1XX8 or BIOL1XX3 or MEDS1XX1) and (BIOL1009 or BIOL1X07) and PHAR1911 and PHAR1921 and PHAR1922 and PHAR2911 and PHAR2912 and PHAR2921 and PHAR2922
Corequisites ?	PHAR3922
Prohibitions ?	None
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	No

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Ricki Ng, ricki.ng@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 1 September 2025

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Written exam ?	Final exam Written exam with multiple-choice questions	40%	Formal exam period	2 hours	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
In-person practical, skills, or performance task or test	Competency-based assessments In-class pharmacy-related skills assessments across the semester	30%	Multiple weeks	10 minutes, including feedback	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
In-class quiz	Short quizzes Multiple-choice quizzes across the semester	10%	Multiple weeks	10 minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Presentation	Health Collaboration Challenge (HCC) Participation in the HCC, video and role description submission, video marking assignment, and peer evaluation	5%	Multiple weeks Due date: 15 Aug 2025 at 23:59	1 day and associated tasks	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Contribution	MHFA training participation Participation in Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training	0%	Multiple weeks	Week 1 and 2	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	MHFA accreditation quiz Accreditation quiz following Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training	5%	Week 06	15-30 minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Medication management assignment Medication management assignment	10%	Week 10	800-1500 words	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= hurdle task ? = group assignment ?

Assessment summary

Competency-based assessments: These workshops and labs will emphasise the application of your knowledge and skills as a pharmacist, incorporating information gathering, information processing, and information delivery. Students are expected to do pre-work prior to the workshop. A series of clinical cases done over several workshops and labs will assess your knowledge in neurology and mental health. Attendance in these workshops and labs include attending the workshop on time, participating in all workshops activities (including pre-work etc.) and behaving in a professional manner. You must pass this assessment to pass the unit of study (50%).

Quiz: The short quizzes are designed to help students integrate and apply the knowledge and skills acquired in lectures and other related activities, in the management of patients’ health needs and problems, and other clinical issues they are likely to encounter as a practising pharmacist. The sum of all short quizzes (2x5%) will make up 10% of the Unit of Study mark.

Medication Management Report: The report will assess students' abiliity to identify clinical problems, assess and address medication related issues and communicate effectively with other healthcare professionals. You must pass this assessment to pass the unit of study (50%).

Health Collaboration Challenge - Students will complete the HCC that includes team work, communication and collaborative practice with students across FMH. You must pass this assessment to pass the unit of study.

Mental Health First Aid Training - Students will complete sessions for MHFA and be awarded a certificate on completion. You must complete the MHFA training to pass the unit of study. An addittional 5% will be awarded if you pass the MHFA quiz.

Final Written Exam: This examination will be based on lectures/workshops/ labs material from the Neurology and Mental Health unit of study. The exam will comprise of multiple-choice questions. You must pass this assessment to pass the unit of study (50%).

If you do not pass any hurdle assessment(s) the maximum final grade you can obtain will be 45 FA, regardless of the total raw mark you obtain for the unit of study.

No use of AI tools (Final Written Exam, Competency based assessments)
The use of automated writing tools and generative artificial intelligence is prohibited in this assessment. You are not allowed to use AI or any other software to create information or answers, to alter your own original writing, or to generate or modify text from other sources. This includes translation software, editing/paraphrasing software and other generative artificial intelligence tools.
Unapproved use is considered a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy and may result in penalties, which can include a fail for the assessment.

AI tools permitted (Medication Management Report, MHFA Training and quiz, HCC, In class quizzes)
You are permitted to use automated writing tools and generative artificial intelligence (AI) to facilitate your learning and completion of this assignment. Please adhere to the following guidelines:
-   Do not enter confidential, personal, copyrighted or otherwise sensitive information into any AI tool.
-   Do not rely on the accuracy of outputs. You remain responsible for your work. This means you must independently verify and edit AI-generated content to ensure the integrity, accuracy, and suitability of the output.
-   If you use these tools, you must be aware of their limitations, biases, and propensity for fabrication.
Your final submitted work must be your own, original work. You must acknowledge any use of AI tools that have been used in the assessment, and any material that forms part of your submission, must be appropriately referenced. For guidance on how to reference and acknowledge the use of AI, please refer to the AI in Education Canvas site.
You are advised to keep copies of the prompts you provided and AI outputs as evidence of your research and writing process. This allows you to produce an accurate acknowledgement of AI use when you submit your work. This can be requested by the unit coordinator if there is any uncertainty about the originality of your work.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100	At HD level, a student demonstrates an aptitude for the subject and a well-developed understanding of the unit material. A ‘High Distinction’ reflects exceptional achievement and is awarded to students who demonstrate the ability to apply their subject knowledge and understanding to produce original solutions for novel or highly complex problems and/or comprehensive critical discussions of theoretical concepts.
Distinction	75 - 84	At DI level, a student demonstrates an aptitude for the subject and a well-developed understanding of the units material. A ‘Distinction’ reflects excellent achievement and is awarded to a student who demonstrates an ability to apply their subject knowledge and understanding of the subject to produce good solutions for challenging problems and/or a reasonably well-developed critical analysis of theoretical concepts.
Credit	65 - 74	At CR level, a student demonstrates a good command and knowledge of the unit material. A ‘Credit’ reflects solid achievement and is awarded to a student who has a broad general understanding of the units material and can solve routine problems and/ or identify and superficially discuss theoretical concepts.
Pass	50 - 64	At PS level, a student demonstrates proficiency in the material. A ‘Pass’ reflects satisfactory adequately referencing the original source of the work.
Fail	0 - 49	When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard.

For more information see sydney.edu.au/students/guide-to-grades.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Multiple weeks	Students will be required to undertake approx 168 hours of self directed learning ie completing pre-work and workshop/lab/lecture revision	Independent study (168 hr)
Week 01	Physiology: The Nervous System, Movement of Substances across Membrane, Membrane potential, Action potential, Chemical Synaptic Transmission, Consciousness	Online class (6 hr)
	Introduction to semester 2 and student life and wellbeing	Seminar (2 hr)
	Mental Health First Aid	Workshop (8 hr)
Week 02	Mood disorders, anxiety disorders, pharmacology, complementary medicines relating to depression	Online class (6 hr)
	Mental Health First Aid	Workshop (4 hr)
	Neural circuits and function	Practical (3 hr)
Week 03	Resilience and self development	Seminar (2 hr)
	Depression, anxiety and insomnia	Workshop (4 hr)
	Mood disorders, anxiety disorders, sleep disorders and pharmacology	Online class (5 hr)
Week 04	Psychotic disorders and schizophrenia	Online class (4 hr)
	Serotonin toxicity and mental health consumer tutorials	Workshop (4 hr)
	Melatonin compounding lab	Practical (2 hr)
	Antidepressant related clinical scenarios	Workshop (2 hr)
Week 05	Psychological treatment for mental illness, pharmacology and ethics	Online class (4 hr)
Week 05	Schizophrenia	Workshop (4 hr)
Week 06	Bipolar disorder, pharmacokinetics and monitoring of lithium, psychedelics	Online class (4 hr)
	Bipolar disorder	Workshop (4 hr)
	HMR and RMMR	Seminar (2 hr)
Week 07	Substance use related disorders and drug overdose or misuse	Online class (5 hr)
	Lithium lab	Practical (2 hr)
	Lithium related clinical scenarios	Workshop (2 hr)
Week 08	Epilepsy, headache and migraine	Online class (5 hr)
	Cognitive impairment screening in community pharmacy	Seminar (2 hr)
	Epilepsy/headache/migraine	Workshop (4 hr)
Week 09	Parkinson's disease, pharmacogenomics and illicit and recreational substance use	Online class (6 hr)
	Dispensing and labelling	Practical (2 hr)
	Clozapine related clinical scenarios	Workshop (2 hr)
Week 10	Cholinergic neurotransmission including glutamate, acetylcholine and noradrenaline	Online class (4 hr)
Week 10	Parkinson's/drug induced movement disorders	Workshop (4 hr)
Week 11	Cognitive impairment and dementias and the role of carers	Online class (4 hr)
	Pharmaceutical industry influence on prescribing or dispensing	Seminar (2 hr)
	Alzheimer's disease	Workshop (4 hr)
	Anticholinergic and/or Parkinsons related clinical scenarios	Workshop (2 hr)
	Dispensing and labelling	Practical (2 hr)
Week 12	ADHD, autism and multiple sclerosis	Online class (4 hr)
Week 12	Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder	Workshop (4 hr)
Week 13	Deprescribing antidepressants and opioids	Seminar (2 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

Students must attend a minimum of 85% of seminar/lab/workshop/practical sessions to satisfy attendance requirements for this unit of study.

If a seminar/lab/workshop/practical is missed due to illness or misadventure, students are to submit a special consideration application along with supporting documentation.

Students arriving more than 10 minutes after the commencement of the seminar/lab/workshop/practical will be marked as absent.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 12 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 240-300 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

All readings for this unit can be accessed through the Library Reading List, available on Canvas.

Australian Medicines Handbook
eTG complete
Australian Pharmaceutical Formulary

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. Explain the chemistry and pharmacology that underpins the mechanism of action and activity of medicines used in neurological and mental health conditions.
LO2. Describe the physiology, epidemiology and pathophysiology of neurological and mental health conditions.
LO3. Apply clinical reasoning, knowledge of relevant legislation and ethical principles to identify, assess and address a range of health, ethical and medication-related issues.
LO4. Communicate effectively and appropriately in a culturally-capable manner with patients, families, carers and other health professionals.
LO5. Demonstrate patient-centred care and shared decision making in interactions with patients, families and carers relating to neurological and mental health conditions.
LO6. Demonstrate appropriate skills for interacting with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients, families and carers in a way which fosters cultural awareness and respect.
LO7. Gather, document, assess and manage relevant information appropriately and accurately from patients, families, carers, health care professionals and other sources.
LO8. Propose, and justify the rationale for, the most appropriate pharmacological and/or non-pharmacological treatment(s) tailored for a specific patient and their circumstances, using relevant evidence-based resources.
LO9. Dispense and/or prepare pharmaceutical products for a patient with a neurological or mental health condition in a legal, safe and ethical manner.
LO10. Provide appropriate tailored advice and counselling to a patient with a neurological or mental health condition to ensure the quality use of medicines.
LO11. Identify, assess and resolve potential or actual adverse effects from the use/misuse of legal or illegal medicines.
LO12. Demonstrate responsibility for personal and professional development through independent learning and continuous reflection.
LO13. Work effectively and cooperatively as a member of a learning and/or working team.
LO14. Contribute effectively as a pharmacist member of a multidisciplinary health care team to optimise patient outcomes.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Alignment with Competency standards

Outcomes	Competency standards
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 3.1. formulating appropriate and effective actions and recommendations which support safe, rational and cost-effective use of medicines and other healthcare options and optimise socially accountable person-centred care by 3.1.a. applying relevant underpinning knowledge
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 3.1. formulating appropriate and effective actions and recommendations which support safe, rational and cost-effective use of medicines and other healthcare options and optimise socially accountable person-centred care by 3.1.a. applying relevant underpinning knowledge
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 1.4. practising legally by 1.4.a. complying with all legal obligations in their practice 1.4.b. maintaining contemporary familiarity with key legislative instruments 1.5. practising ethically and with integrity by 1.5.a. recognising ethical issues and dilemmas, including conflicts of interest, in practise as they arise 1.5.b. considering alternative strategies and adopting an appropriate course of action in response to ethical issues and dilemmas 1.5.c. maintaining current familiarity and compliance with professional codes, guidelines and standards 3.1. implementing appropriate and effective actions and recommendations which support safe, rational and cost-effective use of medicines and other healthcare options and optimise socially accountable person-centred care by 3.1.c. applying effective critical thinking, reasoning and problemsolving strategies to conceptualise problems, formulate a range of potential solutions, and support decision-making Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 1.4. practising legally by 1.4.a. demonstrating contemporary knowledge and application of legal requirements relating to community and hospital pharmacy practice within their jurisdiction 1.4.b. demonstrating awareness of the processes for maintaining contemporary familiarity with key legislative instruments 1.5. practising ethically and with integrity by 1.5.a. identifying potential ethical issues and dilemmas, including conflicts of interest, relating to practice 1.5.b. considering alternative strategies and choosing an appropriate course of action in response to ethical issues and dilemmas 1.5.c. demonstrating awareness of relevant professional codes, guidelines and standards and their content 3.1. formulating appropriate and effective actions and recommendations which support safe, rational and cost-effective use of medicines and other healthcare options and optimise socially accountable person-centred care by 3.1.c. applying effective critical thinking, reasoning and problem-solving strategies to conceptualise problems, formulate a range of potential solutions, and support decision-making
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 2.1. communicating appropriately and effectively with a socially and culturally diverse range of people in a manner which inspires confidence and trust by 2.1.a. using verbal, written and non-verbal communication which is appropriately tailored to the professional practice context and the capabilities and health literacy of the other person(s) 2.1.b. engaging with all persons in a respectful, culturally appropriate, compassionate, responsive and empathetic manner in professional practice 2.1.c. engaging in culturally appropriate and sensitive communication with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and/or Māori people in professional practice which respects their history, culture and protocols 2.1.d. using appropriate communication and interpersonal behaviours in professional practice interactions 2.3. contributing to, and taking prominent roles where appropriate in the interprofessional collaborative health care team, in order to optimise patient outcomes, by 2.3.b. creating and maintaining effective intra-and interprofessional relationships, and working in partnership to achieve negotiated, agreed-upon objectives Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 2.1. communicating appropriately and effectively with a socially and culturally diverse range of people in a manner which inspires confidence and trust by 2.1.a. demonstrating appropriately tailored verbal, written and non-verbal communication 2.1.b. engaging with all persons in a respectful, culturally appropriate, compassionate, responsive and empathetic manner 2.1.c. demonstrating awareness of and sensitivity to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and/or Māori history, communication styles and community protocols 2.1.d. demonstrating appropriate communication and interpersonal behaviours 2.3. contributing to the interprofessional collaborative health care team in order to optimise patient outcomes by 2.3.b. creating and maintaining effective intra- and interprofessional relationships, and working in partnership to achieve negotiated, agreed-upon objectives
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 2.4. collaborating with patients, carers and other clients in shared decision-making by 2.4.a. supporting the rights of patients, carers and other clients to access relevant information and participate in decisions relating to their care 2.4.b. respecting their choices 3.5. implementing and delivering person-centred care by 3.5.a. respecting the personal characteristics, rights, preferences, values, beliefs, needs and diversity of patients, carers and other persons 3.5.b. maintaining privacy and confidentiality in interactions with patients, carers and other persons 3.5.c. optimising as far as is practicable the physical environment in which care takes place 3.5.d. ensuring that the best interests of patients, carers and other persons are foremost in the provision of care 3.5.e. ensuring that patients, carers and other persons are provided with sufficient information and advice to enable them to consider options and give informed consent where appropriate 3.5.f. ensuring that informed consent is obtained, respected and appropriately recorded when appropriate Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 2.4. collaborating with patients, carers and other clients in shared decision-making by 2.4.a. supporting the rights of patients, carers and other clients to access relevant information and participate in decisions relating to their care 2.4.b. respecting their choices 3.5. demonstrating the delivery of person-centred care including 3.5.a. respecting the personal characteristics, rights, preferences, values, beliefs, needs and diversity of patients, carers and other persons 3.5.b. maintaining privacy and confidentiality in interactions with patients, carers and other persons 3.5.c. optimising as far as is practicable the physical environment in which care takes place 3.5.d. ensuring that the best interests of patients, carers and other persons are foremost in the provision of care 3.5.e. ensuring that patients, carers and other persons are provided with sufficient information and advice to enable them to consider options and give informed consent where appropriate 3.5.f. ensuring that informed consent is obtained, respected and appropriately recorded when appropriate
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 1.2. promoting, maintaining and advocating for cultural safety, respect and responsiveness, particularly in relation to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and/or Māori peoples 2.1. communicating appropriately and effectively with a socially and culturally diverse range of people in a manner which inspires confidence and trust by 2.1.a. using verbal, written and non-verbal communication which is appropriately tailored to the professional practice context and the capabilities and health literacy of the other person(s) 2.1.b. engaging with all persons in a respectful, culturally appropriate, compassionate, responsive and empathetic manner in professional practice 2.1.c. engaging in culturally appropriate and sensitive communication with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and/or Māori people in professional practice which respects their history, culture and protocols Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 1.2. promoting and advocating for cultural safety, respect and responsiveness, particularly in relation to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and/or Māori peoples 2.1. communicating appropriately and effectively with a socially and culturally diverse range of people in a manner which inspires confidence and trust by 2.1.a. demonstrating appropriately tailored verbal, written and non-verbal communication 2.1.b. engaging with all persons in a respectful, culturally appropriate, compassionate, responsive and empathetic manner 2.1.c. demonstrating awareness of and sensitivity to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and/or Māori history, communication styles and community protocols
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 2.1. communicating appropriately and effectively with a socially and culturally diverse range of people in a manner which inspires confidence and trust by 2.1.a. using verbal, written and non-verbal communication which is appropriately tailored to the professional practice context and the capabilities and health literacy of the other person(s) 2.1.b. engaging with all persons in a respectful, culturally appropriate, compassionate, responsive and empathetic manner in professional practice 2.1.c. engaging in culturally appropriate and sensitive communication with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and/or Māori people in professional practice which respects their history, culture and protocols 2.1.d. using appropriate communication and interpersonal behaviours in professional practice interactions 2.2. documenting, communicating and recording relevant information, findings, decisions, recommendations and other information accurately, concisely and in a timely manner, taking due account of privacy and confidentiality 3.6. obtaining relevant health, medical and medication information from patients, carers and other clients 3.7. assessing current health, medical and medication histories and profiles of patients Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 2.1. communicating appropriately and effectively with a socially and culturally diverse range of people in a manner which inspires confidence and trust by 2.1.a. demonstrating appropriately tailored verbal, written and non-verbal communication 2.1.b. engaging with all persons in a respectful, culturally appropriate, compassionate, responsive and empathetic manner 2.1.c. demonstrating awareness of and sensitivity to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and/or Māori history, communication styles and community protocols 2.1.d. demonstrating appropriate communication and interpersonal behaviours 2.2. documenting, communicating and recording relevant information, findings, decisions, recommendations and other information accurately and concisely, taking due account of privacy and confidentiality 3.6. obtaining relevant health, medical and medication information from patients, carers and other clients 3.7. assessing current health, medical and medication histories and profiles of patients
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 3.1. implementing appropriate and effective actions and recommendations which support safe, rational and cost-effective use of medicines and other healthcare options and optimise socially accountable person-centred care by 3.1.b. using a systematic approach to access, critically evaluate and apply relevant evidence 3.1.c. applying effective critical thinking, reasoning and problemsolving strategies to conceptualise problems, formulate a range of potential solutions, and support decision-making 3.1.d. making decisions which are tailored to the person’s individual circumstances, and reflect a balanced consideration of both the potential benefits and potential harms 3.18. assessing ambulatory conditions and providing appropriate management approaches, including pharmacological, nonpharmacological and referral options where appropriate 3.2. making and prioritising recommendations to manage heath, medical and medication needs of patients, including both pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies, based on the Quality Use of Medicines Framework and the best available evidence 5.5. accessing, using, adapting and sharing information and/or other technologies to meet the needs of current and emerging professional practice Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 3.1. formulating appropriate and effective actions and recommendations which support safe, rational and cost-effective use of medicines and other healthcare options and optimise socially accountable person-centred care by 3.1.b. using a systematic approach to access, critically evaluate and apply relevant evidence 3.1.c. applying effective critical thinking, reasoning and problem-solving strategies to conceptualise problems, formulate a range of potential solutions, and support decision-making 3.1.d. making decisions which are tailored to the person’s individual circumstances, and reflect a balanced consideration of both the potential benefits and potential harms 3.18. assessing ambulatory conditions and recommending appropriate management approaches, including pharmacological, non-pharmacological and referral options where appropriate 3.2. making and prioritising recommendations to manage health, medical and medication needs of patients, including both pharmacological and nonpharmacological strategies, based on the Quality Use of Medicines Framework and the best available evidence 5.5. accessing, using, adapting and sharing information and/or other technologies to meet the needs of current and emerging professional practice
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 1.4. practising legally by 1.4.a. complying with all legal obligations in their practice 1.4.b. maintaining contemporary familiarity with key legislative instruments 1.5. practising ethically and with integrity by 1.5.a. recognising ethical issues and dilemmas, including conflicts of interest, in practise as they arise 1.5.b. considering alternative strategies and adopting an appropriate course of action in response to ethical issues and dilemmas 1.5.c. maintaining current familiarity and compliance with professional codes, guidelines and standards 1.5.d. recognising and responding appropriately to situations which fall outside their current scope of practice or competence 3.12. consistently making accurate arithmetic calculations relating to health care 3.14. dispensing medicines safely and accurately in accordance with current legislation, scope of practice, PharmBA Guidelines and other relevant jurisdictional requirements to optimise patient outcomes 3.15. preparing and supplying extemporaneously compounded medications safely and accurately in accordance with current legislation, scope of practice, PharmBA Guidelines and other relevant jurisdictional requirements 3.16. storing and distributing medications appropriately, securely, safely and in accordance with the available evidence to ensure stability and efficacy Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 1.1. promoting both the best interests and safety of patients and the public 1.4. practising legally by 1.4.a. demonstrating contemporary knowledge and application of legal requirements relating to community and hospital pharmacy practice within their jurisdiction 1.4.b. demonstrating awareness of the processes for maintaining contemporary familiarity with key legislative instruments 1.5. practising ethically and with integrity by 1.5.a. identifying potential ethical issues and dilemmas, including conflicts of interest, relating to practice 1.5.b. considering alternative strategies and choosing an appropriate course of action in response to ethical issues and dilemmas 1.5.c. demonstrating awareness of relevant professional codes, guidelines and standards and their content 1.5.d. recognising and formulating strategies to respond appropriately to situations which fall outside their expected scope of practice or competence 3.12. consistently making accurate arithmetic calculations relating to health care 3.14. dispensing medicines safely and accurately in accordance with current legislation, scope of practice, PharmBA Guidelines and other relevant jurisdictional requirements to optimise patient outcomes 3.15. preparing and supplying extemporaneously compounded medications safely and accurately in accordance with current legislation, scope of practice, PharmBA Guidelines and other relevant jurisdictional requirements 3.16. demonstrating awareness of the appropriate conditions for secure and safe storage and distribution of medications to ensure stability and efficacy
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 3.17. providing appropriate tailored counselling, information and education to enable safe and effective medication, disease state and lifestyle management Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 3.17. providing appropriate tailored counselling, information and education to enable safe and effective medication, disease state and lifestyle management
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 3.20. providing evidence-based screening, assessment, prevention and referral services to detect and manage potential risk of adverse medical conditions and outcomes Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 3.20. providing evidence-based screening, assessment, prevention and referral services to detect and manage potential risk of adverse medical conditions and outcomes 3.21. demonstrating the delivery of harm minimisation approaches and strategies to reduce harm to patients and the community from misuse of legal and illegal drugs
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 1.6. adopting a proactive and reflective approach to maintaining and developing their own professional competence and expertise in order to remain fit-to-practise 4.1. engaging in regular and systematic reflection to enhance professional learning and practice 4.2. identifying and acknowledging professional limitations and seeking appropriate support where necessary, including additional professional education and/or referral of patients to other health care professionals Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 1.6. demonstrating a proactive and reflective approach to developing their own professional competence and expertise 1.8. accepting personal responsibility and accountability for decisions and actions in simulated and/or work-integrated learning environments 4.1. undertaking regular reflection as a means of enhancing learning and practice 4.2. demonstrating awareness of professional limitations and adopting appropriate strategies where necessary, including additional professional education and/or referral of patients to other health care professionals
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 2.1. communicating appropriately and effectively with a socially and culturally diverse range of people in a manner which inspires confidence and trust by 2.1.b. engaging with all persons in a respectful, culturally appropriate, compassionate, responsive and empathetic manner in professional practice 2.3. contributing to, and taking prominent roles where appropriate in the interprofessional collaborative health care team, in order to optimise patient outcomes, by 2.3.a. respecting and appreciating the complementary roles of pharmacists and other members of the interprofessional collaborative care team 2.3.c. consistently engaging in appropriate teamwork behaviours Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 2.1. communicating appropriately and effectively with a socially and culturally diverse range of people in a manner which inspires confidence and trust by 2.1.a. demonstrating appropriately tailored verbal, written and non-verbal communication 2.1.b. engaging with all persons in a respectful, culturally appropriate, compassionate, responsive and empathetic manner 2.1.c. demonstrating awareness of and sensitivity to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and/or Māori history, communication styles and community protocols 2.1.d. demonstrating appropriate communication and interpersonal behaviours 2.3. contributing to the interprofessional collaborative health care team in order to optimise patient outcomes by 2.3.a. demonstrating an understanding and appreciation of the roles of pharmacists and other members of the interprofessional collaborative care team 2.3.c. demonstrating appropriate teamwork behaviours 4.7. demonstrating effective leadership skills, including taking the initiative when appropriate, managing own roles, and understanding and accepting appropriate responsibility and accountability for organising, planning, prioritising, influencing and negotiating within a team context
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 2.3. contributing to, and taking prominent roles where appropriate in the interprofessional collaborative health care team, in order to optimise patient outcomes, by 2.3.a. respecting and appreciating the complementary roles of pharmacists and other members of the interprofessional collaborative care team 2.3.b. creating and maintaining effective intra-and interprofessional relationships, and working in partnership to achieve negotiated, agreed-upon objectives 2.3.c. consistently engaging in appropriate teamwork behaviours 2.3.d. using appropriate communication at transition points to reduce risks to patients and ensure safe and effective continuity of patient care Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - On successful completion of an approved pharmacy degree program - 2.3. contributing to the interprofessional collaborative health care team in order to optimise patient outcomes by 2.3.a. demonstrating an understanding and appreciation of the roles of pharmacists and other members of the interprofessional collaborative care team 2.3.b. creating and maintaining effective intra- and interprofessional relationships, and working in partnership to achieve negotiated, agreed-upon objectives 2.3.c. demonstrating appropriate teamwork behaviours 2.3.d. demonstrating appropriate communication at transition points in patient care to reduce risks to patients and ensure safe and effective continuity of patient care 4.7. demonstrating effective leadership skills, including taking the initiative when appropriate, managing own roles, and understanding and accepting appropriate responsibility and accountability for organising, planning, prioritising, influencing and negotiating within a team context

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

Although this is the first time this unit has been offered, all new material has been piloted with pharmacy students to improve their delivery. Their feedback has been incorporated to emphasize their relevance to pharmacy practice.

Additional information

N/A

Additional costs

N/A

Site visit guidelines

N/A

Work, health and safety

N/A

Disclaimer

The University reserves the right to amend units of study or no longer offer certain units, including where there are low enrolment numbers.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Alignment with Competency standards

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Additional costs

Site visit guidelines

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

PHAR3921: Neurology and Mental Health

Semester 2, 2025 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Alignment with Competency standards

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Additional costs

Site visit guidelines

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links