You may be able to study these modules at Level 6 (BSc level) or Level 7 (Masters level) depending on your academic circumstances. Please contact the CPD Team or the Module Leader for advice if you are unsure which level would be best for you.

This 20 credit Essentials of Renal Care module aims to provide you with an opportunity to apply knowledge, understanding and clinical skills in renal care to demonstrate attainment of theoretical concepts in the implementation of holistic evidence-based care delivery of patients within the renal care environment.

In addition, you will have the opportunity to explore haemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, transplantation and service improvement strategies.

On successful completion of this level 6 (UZWRVT-20-3) or level 7 (UZWRVU-20-M) module, you will be able to:

• Provide evidence of understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the renal system and how this is affected in renal disease processes.

• Examine the care and management of complications of renal replacement therapies and transplantation in relation to psychological, physiological and social issues.

• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the ethical, cultural and quality of life issues associated with renal disease and treatments.

• Evaluate the role of the multidisciplinary team within the renal setting and explore renal nursing leadership in relation to service improvement.

• Explore how evidence based practice influence the diagnosis of renal failure, treatment modalities and the impact on service users.

• Demonstrate an understanding and appreciation of pharmacological and nutritional needs in the management of renal disease.

Careers / Further study

The level 6 module can contribute towards:

• BSc(Hons) Specialist Practice (District Nursing)
• BSc(Hons) Health and Social Care
• MSc Specialist Practice (District Nursing)
• MSc Advanced Practice
• Professional Development Award

The level 7 module can contribute towards:

• MSc Specialist Practice (District Nursing)
• MSc Advanced Practice
• Professional Development Awards

Please note: Priority will be given to applications received through our funded educational contracts.  Places on this module will be limited for applications received outside of this funding.  Please check with your employer as a funded contract place may still be available to support your learning.

If the course you are applying for is fully online or blended learning, please note that you are expected to provide your own headsets/microphones.

You can also follow us on Twitter @UWEhasCPD.

Content

The module syllabus typically includes the following:

Day 1. Introduction to the module and literature searching skills

• Appreciation of online learning resources and self-directed learning
• Introduction and pathophysiology of the renal system
• Investigations in renal disease  
• Pharmacology in renal care                       

Day 2. Acute Kidney Injury and Chronic Kidney Disease

• Acute kidney injury and management
• Chronic Kidney Disease and management
• Ethical consideration in renal care
• Conservative treatment and end of life care                 

Day 3. Renal Replacement Therapy: Haemodialysis

• Salt balance, target weight and fluid balance
• Vascular access
• Haemofiltration and haemodiafiltration
• Haemodialysis complications

Day 4. Renal Replacement Therapy: Peritoneal Dialysis

• Formative assessment
• The principles of peritoneal dialysis
• Complications of peritoneal dialysis
• Nutritional support in renal replacement therapy

Day 5. Renal Replacement Therapy: Transplantation

Scheduled learning includes lectures, seminars, tutorials, reflection on practice and work based learning, practical classes and workshops.

Independent learning includes hours engaged with essential reading especially activities online, case study preparation and presentation, assignment preparation and completion.

The actual contact time is 48 hours and this is complemented by self-directive learning and online learning resources.

• Case study presentation: Individual presentation utilising a reflective model to discuss a particular aspect of care from practice.
• Case study essay: Writing an essay demonstrating knowledge and understanding of the delivery of service to a person with renal healthcare needs (3,000 words).

At level 6 (BSc level), you are expected to critically analyse, evaluate and synthesise the delivery of service in this case study. This should include some appreciation of how evidence based practice influence the delivery of renal service.

At level 7 (Masters level), you are expected to critically evaluate, synthesise and provide independent perspectives regarding the delivery of service in this case study. This should include a critical exploration of literature and debate the wider socio-political implications of renal service delivery.