The multi-professional 20 credit module, Pathophysiology and Diagnostic Reasoning for Advancing Practice (PDRAP), will build on knowledge to improve understanding and critical evaluation of the pathophysiology and diagnostics of common diseases seen in clinical practice.

This level 7 (Masters level) module explores the links between the pathophysiology of disease processes and the diagnostic testing process with emphasis on learning to discriminate between different diagnostics modalities and the evaluation of results.

On successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

• critically appraise the aetiological factors and relevant risk factors which contribute to processes of disease.

• critically evaluate current theories relating to a series of pathophysiological states.

• construct a rationale for diagnostic reasoning, using knowledge of the pathophysiological basis of the signs and symptoms associated with a range of disease processes.

• obtain, interpret and synthesise information from a range of sources and use it to generate a critical understanding of the specific disease and pathophysiological processes.

• use clinical argument to enhance critical evaluation of diagnostic findings, including clinical haematology, radiology, immunology, microbiology and biochemistry.

• debate personal and organisational accountability related to the process of diagnostic reasoning.

• critically apprise ethical and legal issues which impact on diagnostic reasoning and the inter-professional team.

Careers / Further study

This module can contribute towards:

• MSc Advanced Practice
• MSc Clinical 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.

Extra information

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.

Content

The course syllabus typically includes:

• frameworks and tools for diagnostic reasoning skills to develop and improve autonomous decision making

• the development of skills to critically evaluate the evidence, critically interpret test results and synthesise findings

• diagnostic reasoning skills

• common ethical, legal and practical challenges of requesting investigations in clinical practice with reference to referral pathways, expert sources, risk assessment

• clinical governance and national guidelines exploration

• critical evaluation and appraisal of pathophysiology and diagnostic test/clinical reasoning around a disease process within your own specialist area

• the introduction and development of your understanding, critical evaluation, and complex thinking around the processes related to (but not limited to) clinical mechanisms and investigations of cell biology; inflammation; inflammatory processes including atheroma and sepsis, infection and associated normal/abnormal responses; thrombosis and associated disease, the genetic contribution to disease, etc.

Learning and Teaching

A variety of approaches will be used which may include:

• e-learning including Blackboard
• webinar lectures
• videos
• experts from practice
• analysis of case studies.

Assessment

Assessment will be by an online exam with a 24 hour submission window, and two-hour suggested completion time.