This course is open to Allied Health Practitioners and nursing practitioners/students who wish to apply.

This 20 credit specialist interdisciplinary module, The Management of Head and Neck Cancer, aims to increase and develop expert knowledge and understanding of the management of head and neck cancer. It seeks to prepare you to respond to this complex, diverse and evolving area of health care. The module is delivered by a wide range of clinical experts in the field.

On successful completion of this level 7 (Masters level) module, you will be able to:

• Demonstrate an in depth knowledge of head and neck cancer biology, anatomy, and physiology.

• Explore and develop an understanding of the different modalities of current treatments in head and neck treatment, including symptom management as you relate to your own professional role.

• Critically examine the psychological and emotional effects of head and neck cancer including body image disturbance.

• Investigate the issues surrounding rehabilitation, survivorship and palliative care in head and neck cancer including ways in which users can be supported through the treatment journey.

• Critically evaluate and appraise the current service provision in head and neck cancer and the role of the multi-professional team in the context of your own role and service development.

This module can contribute towards:

• MSc Advanced Practice (District Nursing)
• MSc Specialist 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.

Content

The course syllabus typically covers the following topics:

• Diseases and pathology of the head and neck
• Epidemiology of  head and neck cancers
• Aetiology of head and neck cancers
• Cell biology, cancer staging, metastatic spread
• Surgical management of head and neck cancers
• Radiotherapy and head and neck cancer
• Oncological management of head and neck cancers
• Ethical issues in head and neck cancer
• Supportive Care and Symptom Management
• Psychological and emotional effects of diagnosis and treatment of head and neck cancer
• Management of alcohol dependency in head and neck cancer
• Nutritional needs of the head and neck cancer patient
• Altered body image and dysfunction
• Symptom management and palliative care in relation to head and neck cancer
• Rehabilitative care in head and neck cancer management
• Swallow and Voice restoration
• Understanding the patient and family experience
• Life beyond treatment
• Professional self-care

A variety of approaches will be used which may include:

• Technology enhanced learning
• Workshops and masterclasses
• Lectures and seminars
• Enquiry-based learning
• Case-based learning

A total of 36 hours in the form of scheduled learning and teaching study hours.

Assessment of this module comprises a 3,000 word project related to the your area of specialist practice in head and neck cancer.