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.

The 20 credit Critical Care in Practice module is built around the 'National Competency Framework for Adult Critical Care Nurses' (Steps 2 and 3) and is therefore designed to relate practically to a nurse's role in Intensive Care.

On successful completion of the level 6 (UZWR1E-20-3) module, you will be able to:

• Demonstrate a safe and competent level of knowledge and practical ability to care for critically ill patients requiring level 2 and 3 care, through systematic assessment, care of physiological systems and clinical judgement.
• Demonstrate competence in identifying and addressing the psychosocial, cultural, ethical and spiritual needs of patients and their families in critical care areas.
• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of leadership, communication and wider organisational drivers relevant to a critical care setting with ability to critically examine own and others’ practice.

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 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.

Content

The module syllabus typically includes:

Assessment, management and delivery of care for the following critical care patients (dependency level 2 or 3) in line with the National Competency Framework for Adult Critical Care Nurses (2012) Steps 2 and 3.

• Respiratory System
• Cardiovascular System
• Renal system
• Gastrointestinal System
• Neurological System
• End of Life Care
• Inter & Intra Hospital Transfer
• Rehabilitation
• Professionalism
• Leadership

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

The module is delivered through five on-campus days (consisting of 50% simulation). In addition, learning is provided by a blended format of:

• online pre-reading materials and activities for each on campus day
• learning undertaken in your own workplace through clinical supervision with a named mentor and sign off of STEPS 2 and 3 national competencies
• self-directed learning is in addition to these components.

Study time

A total of 40 hours in the form of webinars, simulation, and activities. Additional time is required for self-directed learning using provided online material, as well as peer review activities in the workplace.

Assessment

Assessment for this module comprises:

• the completion and submission of the competency framework.
• a 2,000 word assignment.

You will be expected to have a named designated mentor in your place of work before starting this module. 

Formative assessment should be continuous with regular meetings to discuss progress in relation to learning outcomes within the competency document and adjust learning contracts accordingly