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Module 5: Alterations in Health | Care of the Dying | Clinical Practicum


This is part of the MHTP core curriculum. Modules 1, 2, 3, and 4 must be completed before taking this Module. Additionally, a minimum of seven months must elapse between the student's first Module and the date of Module 5. For more details, learn more about registering for classes. You must register by November 18th for this Module.

Introduction to Clinical Practicum & Care of the Dying (9 hours)

This is an introduction to, and experience of, clinical work in a nursing home, hospice, or hospital setting. Students will be oriented to clinical work in a healthcare facility, and will learn about infection control, safety, healthcare institution policies, advance care directives, Do Not Resuscitate orders, ethics, legal documents, confidentiality policies, insurance issues, patient privileges, and issues for healthcare choices. This will help a Certified Music Practitioner (CMP) understand end-of-life choices made by patient families. 

The second session of this class continues with exploration of palliative care issues, including expectations of the dying, survivors, and medical staff. A critical part of this class is discussion of issues students might have with care of the dying, including grief, signs and symptoms of approaching death, gifts the dying may offer, and coping with stress, loss, and death. Appropriate musical repertoire will be reviewed.

Alterations in Health (5 hours)

This is an introduction to major diseases and injuries, symptoms, and treatments, as well as commonly used medications and how they affect the body, mind, and behavior, and awareness of a patient. This knowledge helps a CMP understand a patient’s response to therapeutic music, and helps with selection of appropriate music for that patient and patient condition.

Clinical Practicum (6 hours)

During this critical session, each student will play/sing for patients under the supervision of their instructor, Area Coordinator, and/or experienced CMP. Post-clinical discussion and evaluation will be held. 

Pre-work for Module 5

  • Students have the option to watch “Being Mortal” at: www.pbs.org/wgbh/frontline/film/being-mortal . 

  • For all videoconference Module 5s, prior to the class students will sing or play for individuals and record those experiences prior to class both virtually and in their homes with in-class discussion of the recordings. Specific instructions will be provided by the Module 5 Teacher.

  •  When classes are onsite, students should have all of the required immunizations in order to participate in the Clinical Practicum at the facility chosen for their module. Please confirm with the Area Coordinator as each location’s requirements will be different. 

  • And, as always, keep up with your reading. Read the required book from the Module 5 list in the MHTP Handbook.

Important considerations for module registration

A student must register for each module at least two weeks in advance of the module date because of the extensive pre-work required. There is a $30 late fee for registrations and tuition payments after the one month deadline, except for first-time registrations. Please also note that MHTP classes are limited to 15 students so that our Teachers can best serve our students. Register early to ensure a spot in this class.

Questions about registering for this Module 5? Contact one of the Dallas Area Coordinators:
Judith Ritchie 972-682-0860
judithrtch@gmail.com

Debbie Hyatt, CMP (972) 877-4681
dhyatt437@gmail.com