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).

When taken in conjunction with the Adult Critical Care Patient Management module, these modules 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).

Aims

• demonstrate mastery of knowledge and in-depth understanding of the assessment process of complex patients in adult critical care settings.
• develop as a practitioner who can independently perform and critically reflect on the application of accurate assessment data to the care of critically unwell patients.
• demonstrate the ability to critically appraise and apply the relevant theory to support clinical decision-making during the assessment of the complex patient.

What and how you will learn on this module

The curriculum is designed to prepare the registered nurse to meet the core competencies relevant to all general critical care units, as outlined in Step 2 and Step 3 of the National Competency Framework for Adult Critical Care Nurses (2015). The learner will gain the necessary in-depth knowledge of related pathophysiology, principles, and practices to critically appraise the clinical assessment findings from Level 2 and Level 3 patients. The content for the course will be delivered using an online blended learning approach.

 

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 will enable students to manage critically unwell patient conditions appropriately. 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).

When taken in conjunction with the Adult Critical Care: Patient Assessment module, these modules 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).

Aims

• provide students with a systematic understanding and mastery 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 deep learning and proactively participate in service improvement relating to the care of the adult critically unwell patient.

What and how you will learn on this module

The curriculum will prepare the registered nurse to meet the core competencies relevant to all general critical care units, as outlined in Step 2 and Step 3 of the National Competency Framework for Adult Critical Care Nurses (2016). Students will develop the skills and knowledge required to formulate an evidence-based management plan and enhance the care they provide to Level 2 and Level 3 patients. The content for the course will be delivered using an online blended learning approach.

 

These 2 modules are intended to build on the knowledge and skills previously gained from achievement of the Step 1 Competencies and when taken together, these modules 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 

1. Demonstrate deep and systematic 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.
2. Use a systematic approach to undertake a comprehensive and detailed, advanced physical assessment of a complex critical care patient.
3. Autonomously evaluate complex patient assessment data in relation to the patient’s presenting condition and assessment, with reference to the underlying pathophysiology.
4. Critically analyse the assessment findings, demonstrating a comprehensive, systematic application of knowledge, understanding, and research in relation to relevant policies, procedures, and guidelines.
5. Critically analyse the relevance of invasive and non-invasive monitoring approaches used with complex critically unwell patients, to inform their management.
6. Critically analyse and discuss appropriate investigative strategies in the assessment process of the critically unwell patient, with reference to the multidisciplinary team.

 

Adult Critical Care: Patient Management

1. Demonstrate deep and systematic advanced skills in the management of a critically unwell patient, in conjunction with enhanced theoretical knowledge and understanding that underpins the chosen intervention.
2. Scrutinise and critique the current research and evidence base in clinical decision- making to provide effective, integrated, and high-quality care for the critically unwell patient.
3. Apply systematic, detailed knowledge and application of the pharmacological management of a critically ill patient, adjusting therapy according to the response in the patient’s condition.
4. Independently provide solutions to complex situations through in-depth, systematic critical analysis and evaluation, to improve patient care.
5. Critically appraise 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.
6. Critically examine and appraise 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

Adult Critical Care: Patient Management

Essay (4000 words) and Competency assessment document