Adult Critical Care: Patient Assessment and Adult Critical Care: Patient Management

10 Sep 2025 (Intake closed)
Apply by: 27 Aug 2025
New Session
10 Sep 2025 (On Campus), 24 Sep 2025 (Online), 08 Oct 2025 (Online), 22 Oct 2025 (Online), 05 Nov 2025 (Skills day), 12 Nov 2025 (Online), 26 Nov 2025 (Online), 03 Dec 2025 (On Campus), 17 Dec 2025 (Online), 14 Jan 2026 (Online), 28 Jan 2026 (Online), 11 Feb 2026 (On Campus)
25 Feb 2026 (Available)
Apply by: 11 Feb 2026
New Session
25 Feb 2026 (On Campus), 11 Mar 2026 (Online), 25 Mar 2026 (Online), 08 Apr 2026 (Online), 22 Apr 2026 (Skills day), 29 Apr 2026 (Online), 13 May 2026 (Online), 20 May 2026 (On Campus), 03 Jun 2026 (Online), 17 Jun 2026 (Online), 01 Jul 2026 (Online), 15 Jul 2026 (On Campus)
Course overview
Each module is 30 credits each and completion of both modules will lead to the achievement of 60 credits.
Adult Critical Care Patient Assessment
This module is delivered as a blended learning approach. It is for nurses working in level 3 adult critical care areas and will equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to undertake and interpret a comprehensive assessment of an adult patient with complex care needs. It is intended to build on the knowledge and skills previously gained from achievement of the Step 1 Competencies, part of the National Competency Framework for Registered Nurses in Adult Critical Care (2015).
Aims
This module aims to enable the student to:
- demonstrate an in-depth, systematic knowledge and understanding of the assessment process of complex patients in an adult critical care setting.
- develop as a practitioner who can practice effectively and reflect on the application of accurate assessment data to the care of critically unwell patients.
- demonstrate the ability to critique and support clinical decision-making during the assessment process of the complex patient.
Adult Critical Care Patient Management
This module is delivered as a blended learning approach. It is for nurses working in level 3 adult critical care areas and will explore the management of complex conditions seen in level 3 patients, using contemporary evidence and patient-centred care. It is intended to build on the knowledge and skills previously gained from achievement of the Step 1 Competencies, part of the National Competency Framework for Registered Nurses in Adult Critical Care (2015).
Aims
This module aims to:
- provide students with a systematic understanding of the knowledge and skills required to deliver evidence-based clinical care to adult intensive care patients with complex needs.
- develop students’ ability to demonstrate their learning and participate in service improvement relating to the care of the adult critically unwell patient.
On completion of both of these modules, you will meet the requirements for the Step 2 and Step 3 competencies which form part of the National Standards for Adult Critical Care Nurse Education (2016).
On application of the module please find the supporting document in the Download section to the right that you will need to complete and attach to your application.
You can download a copy of the Course plan and structure for the September 25 Cohort in the Downloads section on this page
Groupwork expectations:
We will assign you group work within your study time per/week. You are expected to dedicate 2hrs per week to group activities which you will arrange yourself with your assigned group
Academic Skills:
The academic skills content is supplementary and self-directed. However, we encourage you to use your own time to engage with the content before you start the course. Engaging with it will help you prepare for studying and also support you in being successful with your assignments.
Learning Outcomes
Adult Critical Care Patient Assessment
- Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of the applied anatomy and physiology of the various body systems and the pathophysiological changes associated with a range of conditions related to critical illness.
- Use a systematic approach to undertake an advanced physical assessment of a complex critical care patient.
- Apply knowledge in recognising and interpreting the patient assessment data in relation to the patient’s presenting condition and assessment with reference to the underlying pathophysiology
- Critically analyse assessment findings, demonstrating application of knowledge, understanding and research in relation to relevant policies, procedures, and guidelines.
- Critically discuss the relevance of invasive and non-invasive monitoring approaches used with complex critically unwell patients to inform care management.
- Critically discuss investigative strategies in the assessment process of the critically unwell patient, with reference to the multidisciplinary team.
Adult Critical Care Patient Management
- Demonstrate advanced skills in the management of a critically unwell patient, in conjunction with enhanced theoretical knowledge and understanding that underpins the chosen intervention.
- Critically appraise the current research and evidence base in clinical decision-making to provide effective, integrated, and high-quality care for the critically unwell patient.
- Demonstrate knowledge and application of the associated pharmacological management of a critically ill patient and adjust therapy according to the response in the patient’s condition.
- Independently problem-solve complex situations and offer solutions through critical analysis and evaluation, to improve patient care.
- Critically discuss the effectiveness of interaction between patients/relatives/carers and the multidisciplinary team when providing collaborative care, promoting participation in decision-making and care-planning for the critically ill patient.
- Critically discuss the professional role, attitudes, values, beliefs, and ethical issues when caring for critical care patients and their families.
Assessment
Adult Critical Care Patient Assessment
Exam (3 hours)
Adult Critical Care Patient Management
Essay (3000 words) and Competency Assessment Document
Why choose Kingston University
Kingston University is one of the leading providers of social work and social care education within London and the UK
We work with leading NHS Trusts across SE England
Every member of the teaching staff has substantial practice experience in social work. In addition, many are actively involved in social work research, presenting regularly at conferences and publishing in books and journals
We are No.1 in London and No.2 in the UK for Mental Health Nursing and No.5 in the UK for Children's Nursing (Guardian University Guide 2023)

Course details
Course leader
Siby Sikhamoni & Heather Kincaid
Administrator
Course delivery
Blended Learning
Prerequisites
- Applicants must be registered nurses and have successfully completed the Step 1 competencies from the National Competency Framework for Registered Nurses in Adult Critical Care (2015).
- Applicants must be working in a level 3 adult critical care facility with opportunities to assess critically unwell patients.
- Written confirmation of agreement to provide support from an identified practice assessor is required. The practice assessor must be experienced in caring for Level 3 patients and have successfully completed Steps 2 and 3 of the National Competency Framework for Registered Nurses in Adult Critical Care (2015).
- Corequisites: Access to a PC/laptop with up-to-date software, for optimal access to virtual learning environment.
- Access to MS Teams to interact with the course facilitators.
- Successful completion of both modules is required for full completion of the Step 2 and Step 3 competencies.
Funding
£3,861.00

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