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 module, Principles of Critical Care, is aimed at the healthcare worker working in critical care wishing to gain theoretical knowledge to bridge the theory/practice gap.

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

At level 6 (UZWR1B-20-3)

• Demonstrate detailed knowledge and understanding of physiological and pathological processes within critical illness.

• Demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the Pharmacological management of critical illness.

• Demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the therapeutic principles of critical illness, and apply to the needs of level 2 or 3 critical care patients.

• Demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of psychosocial, cultural, ethical and spiritual needs of patients and their families in critical care areas.

• Analyse the impact of evidence, beliefs and values that contribute to clinical ethical and organisational decision making processes in critical care practice.

• Evaluate and apply current research findings, and challenge established critical care practice in order to promote care that is evidence based.

• Analyse and evaluate the effects of local and national, political, legal and economic decisions on critical care practice.

At level 7 (UZWR1C-20-M)

• Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge and understanding of physiological and pathological processes within critical illness.

• Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge and comprehension of the Pharmacological management of critical illness.

• Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the therapeutic principles of critical illness, and apply to the needs of level 2 or 3 critically ill patients.

• Critically evaluate and analyse complex and conflicting evidence, beliefs and values that contribute to clinical, ethical and organisational decision making processes in critical care practice.

• Synthesise current research information relevant to practice, demonstrating creativity and innovation, utilising knowledge or processes from the forefront of the relevant discipline/practice.

• Critically analyse the psychosocial, cultural, spiritual and ethical issues associated in caring for the critically ill and their carers.

• Critically review the wider policy implications and impact on practice arising from NHS reforms and professional bodies.

Careers / Further study

This module can contribute towards the PGCert Health and Social Care. PGCert Critical Care, MSc Clinical Practice, and the Professional Development Awards. If you have any queries, please contact the Professional Development team (pd@uwe.ac.uk).

The level 6 (undergraduate level) 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 (Masters level) module can contribute towards:

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

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 module syllabus typically includes:

Assessment, management and delivery of care for the following critical care patients (dependency level 2 or 3)

• Patients with respiratory dysfunction
• Patients with cardiovascular dysfunction
• Patients with gastrointestinal dysfunction
• Patients at risk of or in systemic inflammatory response syndrome/Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome
• Patients with neurological dysfunction
• Patients with renal/fluid balance dysfunction
• Patients with endocrine dysfunction

Evidence based practice

• Tools for searching and selecting evidence from a range of sources

Organisational/political influences on care

• Current initiatives which impact on practice
• Ethical frameworks within critical care
• Organisational changes and new ways of working

Learning and Teaching

A variety of approaches will be used which will include:

• technology enhanced learning
• workshops and masterclasses
• lectures and seminars
• enquiry based learning
• case based learning.

This module is delivered completely online using a variety of learning methods, combining online face-to-face days and self-directed learning based on supplied online material.

Study time

A total of 34 hours online face-to-face sessions in the form of webinars, lectures and online discussion activities. Self-directed learning using provided online material is in addition to these sessions.

Assessment

Assessment of this module comprises a 3,000 word patchwork case study essay. You will be given opportunities to test your knowledge and understanding in several interactive quizzes and activities, with feedback throughout the module.