Pathway Specification Pre Hospital Critical Care ...€¦ · A critical and systematic understanding of pharmacological drugs / agents used in pre-hospital critical care 4. A critical

Faculty of Health and Human Sciences

School of Health Professions

Pathway Specification

Postgraduate Certificate Postgraduate diploma

Masters Degree

In

Pre Hospital Critical Care / Retrieval and Transfer

Special Educational Needs and Disability Act 2001 (SENDA)

This document is written using Arial 12 Font, without italics, without underlining (with

the exception of hyperlinks) and is left justified

Date of Approval: 18th August 2015 Date of Implementation: September 2015 Year of first award: 2016

Updated via Minor Change 08.10.2017 Minor Change approved 6th October 2016

2 MSc Pre Hospital Critical Care / Retrieval and Transfer – Programme Specification


Contents

1. MSc Pre-Hospital Critical Care / Retrieval and Transfer ……………… 5

2. Awarding Institution …………………………………………….…………… 5

3. Accrediting Body …………………………………………………………… 5

4. Distinctive Features of the Pathway and the Student Experience ……. 5

5. Relevant QAA Subject Benchmark Group(s) …………………………… 7

6. Pathway Structure ………………………………………………………… 7

7. Pathway Aims ……………………………………………………………… 9

8. Pathway Intended Learning Outcomes ……………………….………… 9

9. Admissions Criteria, including APCL, APEL and DAS arrangements … 12

10. Progression Criteria for Final and Intermediate Awards ……………… 14

11. Exceptions to Regulations ………………………………………………… 16

12. Transitional Arrangements ……………………………………………… 16

13. Mapping …………………………………………………………………… 17



1. MSc Pre Hospital Critical Care / Retrieval and Transfer

Final award title

Masters in Pre Hospital Critical Care / Retrieval and Transfer

Level 7 Intermediate award title(s)

Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip)


Level 7 Intermediate award title(s)

Post Graduate Certificate (PGCert)


Level 7 Intermediate award title(s) (Exit Award only for students who fail the first core module) Post Graduate Certificate (PgCert) Advanced Professional Development

UCAS code

JACS code

2. Awarding Institution: University of Plymouth

Teaching institution(s): University of Plymouth

3. Accrediting body(ies): Not Applicable

4. Distinctive Features of the Pathway and the Student Experience

This unique and exciting new MSc Pre Hospital Critical Care / Retrieval and Transfer

pathway has been specifically designed and developed to target the national need

for specialist practice in prehospital critical care. It is the only programme of its kind

to include the educational development of healthcare professionals in independent

retrieval and transfer - there is a high and ever increasing demand for these

particular competencies in both a civilian and military context.

With the establishment of trauma care networks and the increasing centralisation of

care for time critical and critically ill patients there is a need for practitioners with

expertise in patient stabilisation and subsequent primary, delayed primary and

secondary retrieval: this pathway will deliver this skillset.


This pathway offers an innovative approach to gaining specialist and advanced

knowledge alongside practical skill acquisition. The ‘cutting edge’ curriculum has

been developed through an expert collaboration of University of Plymouth healthcare

professional academics in conjunction with clinical specialists from the Pre Hospital

Retrieval and Transfer environment. Our specialist clinical and pathway delivery

team includes consultants from a wide array of civilian and military acute care

specialities (pre hospital, emergency medicine, anaesthesia, intensive care) working

alongside specialist critical care and air ambulance paramedics and expert

educationalists.

This pathway has the potential to take students from a diversity of backgrounds,

including: Air Ambulance Charities; NHS Ambulance Trusts; junior doctors with an

interest in pre-hospital critical care; military Medics / Paramedics; Paramedics from

the private sector; and specialist nurses from an Emergency Department or Intensive

care background. This pathway offers a unique and ‘ground breaking’ opportunity to

advance pre-hospital and paramedical practice.

The up-to-date syllabus intends to meet and exceed tomorrow’s, as well as today’s,

workforce needs.

The pathway will add to and complement the existing range of interprofessional MSc

pathways offered as part of the MSc Advanced Professional Practice (Health and

Social Care Professions) programme in the School of Health Professions and add to

the postgraduate offer across the Faculty. The APP (Health and Social Care

Professions) programme sits within the School of Health Professions and the School

lies within the Faculty of Health and Human Sciences in University of Plymouth

To facilitate the contemporaneous design, the pathway team have had discussions

with employers and stakeholders with the curriculum design including input by those

working in the clinical as well as academic areas. The planning of this pathway has

also been kept in accordance with the requirements of the workforce, the College of

Paramedics (CoP), local commissioners and key stakeholders.

Delivery is through the School of Health Professions (SoHP), at the Peninsula Allied

Health Centre within the northern University of Plymouth campus, which provides

excellent clinical skills facilities for simulation and practical skill acquisition.


Other distinctive features of the pathway and the student experience are:

.

Highly practically orientated and outcome focused in both educational and

assessment strategies.

Multiple unique workshops, practical skills sessions and simulation activities.

Cutting edge skills acquisition e.g. video laryngoscopy and ultrasound skills

Student engagement in quality improvement, knowledge creation and

dissemination of best practice through publication and presentation

Use of blended learning as a mode of delivery incorporating study blocks and

distance learning technologies.

Flexible study pathways allowing students to study at their own pace from full

time to part time.

Opportunities to apply knowledge and skills to individuals area of clinical

practice

5. Relevant QAA Subject Benchmark Group(s)

The pathway is informed by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) Framework for

higher education qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (2008)

http://www.qaa.ac.uk/publications/information-and-guidance

SEEC Level Descriptors (2010). www.seec.org.uk/academic-credit/seec-credit-

level-descriptors-2010

6. Pathway Structure

The proposed MSc Pre Hospital Critical Care / Retrieval and Transfer pathway will

offer the awards of Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma or Masters of

Science degree. The full time route will normally take one year and the part time route

will normally take three years. The maximum registration period for the full time

registrant is three years and 5 years for the part time student.

The pathway will include the following core modules:

Applying Evidence to Practice.

Project Design for Research

Research Dissertation.

All are 20 credits apart from dissertation which is 60 credits.

http://www.qaa.ac.uk/publications/information-and-guidance

http://www.seec.org.uk/academic-credit/seec-credit-level-descriptors-2010

http://www.seec.org.uk/academic-credit/seec-credit-level-descriptors-2010


Applying evidence to practice, project design for research and the research

dissertation are existing modules running as part of MSc Advanced Professional

Practice (Health and Social Care Professions). This pathway will involve the

creation of 4 new modules which will appeal not only to students on this pathway but

will be offered as CPD standalone and individual dates on some modules will be

offered as study days.

Full Time study

Year Modules (and Credits) Semester 1 Semester 2

1

Applying Evidence to Practice (20) Critical Care Management - Airway, Breathing and Circulation (20)

Critical Care Management - Neurological, Environmental and Special Patient Groups (20)

Pre-hospital Critical Care Passport Competencies 1 (0)

Advanced Clinical Reasoning for the Critical Care Patient (20)

Retrieval and Transfer of a Critical Care Patient within Special Situations (20)

Project Design for Research (20) Pre-hospital Critical Care Passport Competencies 2 (0)

Research Dissertation (60)

Part Time study

Year Modules (and Credits) Semester 1 Semester 2

1

Applying Evidence to Practice (20) Critical Care Management - Airway, Breathing and Circulation (20)

Critical Care Management - Neurological, Environmental and Special Patient Groups (20)

Pre-hospital Critical Care Passport Competencies 1 (0)

2

Advanced Clinical Reasoning for the Critical Care Patient (20)

Retrieval and Transfer of a critical Care Patient within Special Situations (20)

Project Design for Research (20) Pre-hospital Critical Care Passport Competencies 2 (0)

3 Research Dissertation (60)


7. Pathway Aims

The aim of the pathway is to equip professionals with skills that advance practice by:

Exercising exemplary ethical leadership within management, practice and

educational roles, working proactively with others to formulate solutions.

Developing a deep and systematic understanding within the specialist field of

pre-hospital critical care, through interpreting contemporary theoretical

knowledge and critically applying it within practical skills

Developing a flexibly creative, critical and analytical approach to practice,

synthesising ideas and information in innovative ways.

Underpinning practice with analysis of complex data and critical reflection

Designing and conducting research to address a relevant area of practice,

selecting appropriate advanced methodological approaches and critically

evaluating the effectiveness.

8. Pathway Intended Learning Outcomes

8.1. Knowledge and Understanding

On successful completion graduates should have developed:

1. A deep, comprehensive and systematic understanding in key aspects of

advanced pre-hospital critical care, retrieval and transportation.

2. An ability to autonomously adapt practical performance and skills to multiple

pre-hospital critical care contexts

3. A critical and systematic understanding of pharmacological drugs / agents

used in pre-hospital critical care

4. A critical and systematic understanding of the aetiology, physiology and

pathophysiology of key body systems

5. A critical and systematic understanding of decision making theory used to

make clinical decisions in critical care management.

6. A critical and systematic understanding of factors that determine the quality of

clinical research

7. A critical and systematic understanding of the clinical research process from

project development through to implementation


8.2. Cognitive and Intellectual Skills

On successful completion graduates should have developed ability to:

1. Flexibly and creatively relate their advanced knowledge base, skills and

professional behaviour to the area of pre-hospital critical care, retrieval and

transportation

2. Use personal reflection to analyse self and own actions, through a critical

thinking, problem solving, enquiry based approach and be able to influence

and implement change.

3. Critically evaluate the competencies and components required for safe,

efficient and ethical pre-hospital critical care.

4. Critically appraise the modifications required for critical care delivery within

hazardous areas and disaster management

5. Autonomously formulate, propose and justify advanced assessment

management plans for a wide range of critically ill or injured patients,

encountered within a pre-hospital environment.

6. Critically evaluate evidence based research in order to apply it appropriately

to the domain of critical care delivery

7. Design and conduct a research project from conception to implementation

addressing a relevant area of practice, through the selection of appropriate

advanced methodological approaches and critical evaluation of the

effectiveness

8. Demonstrate exemplary leadership qualities to allow the sharing of best

practice within complex clinical environments

9. Understand and evaluate the role of non-technical skills in improving patient

safety and patient outcomes


8.3. Key and Transferable Skills

On successful completion graduates should have developed the ability to:

1. Critically evaluate information from and about critical care patients in order to

determine timely interventions and appropriate care pathways.

2. Critically apply ethical and legal judgements within complex clinical decision

making scenarios

3. Critically apply contemporary regulations, guidelines and recommendations of

their professional bodies (and employer or future employer), in relation to their

professional practice

4. Formulate a clinical research question, design a study and undertake a

substantial investigation into their area of practice.

5. Systematically and critically review databases using appropriate search terms

relevant to the clinical question under investigation

6. Undertake and critically evaluate data collection using qualitative and

quantitative methods as appropriate

7. Write up research findings, using a high level of abstraction and employ a high

standard of academic fidelity appropriate for publication.

8.4. Employment Related Skills

On successful completion graduates should have developed:

1. Consistently and autonomously promote patient safety through risk

assessment, such as identifying red flag issues on both complex clinical and

management issues

2. Critical application of the principles and practices of Clinical Governance

3. Exercise exemplar qualities of leadership, followership and team working

within the various intra-professional or inter-professional groups operating in

critical care and adapt these qualities for the evaluation and synthesis of

current practice in order to promote change

4. Through a passport / portfolio, demonstrate application of transferrable skills

gained through undertaking the degree and associated clinical practice

development


8.5. Practical Skills

On successful completion graduates should have developed the ability to:

1. Autonomously perform advanced assessment and interventions which

promote safe and effective patient management within multiple and complex

critical care scenarios, covering a range of patients from birth to the older

adult lifespan.

2. Demonstrate exemplary communication and leadership qualities when

working within a multidisciplinary environment, by clarifying tasks and

resolving conflict.

3. Use critical personal reflection to recognise and rectify deficits within clinical

knowledge and practice.

4. Effectively maintain their own competency development, through identifying,

evaluating and maintaining capabilities and qualities to support effective

working within their role.

9. Admissions Criteria, including APCL, APEL and DAS arrangements

All applications should achieve the following qualifications:

In order to commence this pathway, the student must meet the University’s entry

requirements for study at postgraduate level. Applicants will need to be employed as

a Healthcare professional, be registered with a relevant professional body (HCPC;

GMC; NMC) and have access to the practice environment. Candidates should

normally have a first degree; BSc (Hons) at 2.2 or above will be considered or

European first cycle equivalent. Applicants will normally a first degree or people with

related academic degrees. People without a degree but with appropriate experience

related to the programme or to any of the chosen pathways may be eligible to apply,

provided they can demonstrate a successful qualification at level 6 learning. There is

a bridging module available within the School of Health Professions for this purpose.

For example, Paramedics who have registered through the Institute of Health and

Care Development (IHCD) or ‘grand parenting’ would normally be considered to

have attained the equivalent of a DipHE (level 5 learning). With successful

completion of the bridging module, this will demonstrate the ability to study at level 6.

Applicants whose first language is not English, must also provide evidence of

competence in written and spoken English of IELTS minimum of 7 in each part.


Each potential student will be assessed individually for their ability to study at this

level and an interview will normally be required. Candidates will normally be required

to submit a short piece of writing as part of the admissions process.

Candidates enrolling on the MSc Prehospital Critical Care / Retrieval and

Transfer pathway:

Each candidate on the Pre hospital Critical Care / Retrieval and Transfer pathway

must also ensure that they have an agreed mentor in place (that has appropriate

qualifications within critical care) and access to a practice environment, where they

can achieve their practice (passport checklist) competencies. Appropriate mentors

will be assessed through submission of their curriculum vitae, outlining their relevant

skills and experience in pre-hospital critical care. Criteria for mentors can be found in

Appendix 1. A telephone / video conference interview may also be used to affirm

suitability and relevant access to a practice environment where practical skills can be

undertaken. Mentors will be supported with a Mentors handbook outlining the

expectations of the programme and how their role relates to the award. This will be

followed up by a verbal discussion of requirements and a point of contact with the

pathway lead, should there be any further need for clarification. This will be

enhanced by regular communication and tripartite tutorials when required.

Before acceptance, an applicant must provide a signed letter from their employer, in

order to confirm the support for the mentor and the student. This should be on

headed paper indicating their employing organisation. The student must also

complete a satisfactory verification of Disclosure and Barring Service status and

Occupational Health assessment. Students are required to confirm they have had a

recent Disclosure and Barring Service check (DBS, formerly CRB) at an enhanced

level, at the point of entry on to the programme (within the last 3 years). This will be

confirmed to the University by the employer and a copy provided for our records.

Students will be required to complete a self-declaration on their first taught day,

indicating that there has been no change in their circumstances. Please note: this

will only be required for those undertaking the passport checklist. An example of the

Employers letter can be found in Appendix 2.


Candidates enrolling onto specific modules within the MSc Prehospital Critical

Care / Retrieval and Transfer pathway as part of CPD:

These candidates enrolling on single / stand-alone module for CPD or as part of the

APP programme will not need a mentor in practice as they will not be completing the

passport checklist. These candidates will not be considered with the award title of

‘Prehospital Critical Care / Retrieval and Transfer’.

AP(E)L:

Claims for Credit for prior learning, whether certificated or experiential are accepted

and will be assessed following university regulations and faculty procedures. APEL is

not accepted against ADV 715 and ADV 716 because of the requirement to

undertake their dissertation with a project supervisor at University of Plymouth.

Therefore the maximum at APEL to this pathway is 100 credits.

European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS)

This pathway is equivalent to 90 ECTS credits (second cycle) with 30 ECTS credits at

post graduate certificate, 60 credits at postgraduate diploma and 90 credits at Masters

degree. Each 20 credit module has the equivalent of 10 ECTS credits and assumes

a notional student effort of between 200-300 hours.

10. Progression Criteria for Final and Intermediate Awards

Postgraduate certificate in: 60 credits: Three 20 credit modules are required: Core

module (20); and two core pathway modules (20 + 20 credits)

For a student to achieve the award title PGCert Pre Hospital Critical Care / Retrieval

and Transfer, they will also need to have achieved the passport competencies

commensurate with that award (signed by the mentor in practice) as well as the

individual module assessments. Otherwise they will be awarded the title PGCert

Advanced Professional Practice.

Postgraduate Diploma in: 120 credits are required: 2 core modules (40 credits) + 80

credit core pathway modules.


For a student to achieve the award title PGDip Pre Hospital Critical Care / Retrieval

and Transfer, they will also need to have achieved the passport competencies

commensurate with the PGCert and the PGDip award (signed by the mentor in

practice) as well as the individual module assessments. Otherwise they will be

awarded the title PGDip Advanced Professional Practice

Masters in 180 credits: 2 core modules 40 credits) + 80 credits core pathway modules

+ 60 credit dissertation.

For a student to achieve the award title MSc Pre Hospital Critical Care / Retrieval

and Transfer, they need to have achieved the passport competencies,

commensurate with the PGCert and PGDip as well as the individual module

assessments. Otherwise they will be awarded the title MSc Advanced Professional

Practice (Health and Social Care Professions). Students can submit their passport

competencies up to one year after their successful completion of the modules

incorporated in that award, to be eligible for that title.

9 modules which are studied in sequence to meet the award MSc Pre Hospital Critical Care / Retrieval and Transfer

PGCERT

Module Code

Module Title Credits

ADV702 Applying Evidence in Practice 20

ADV729 Critical Care Management - Airway, Breathing and Circulation 20

ADV730 Critical Care Management - Neurological, Environmental and Special Patient Groups

20

ADV731 Pre-hospital Critical Care Passport Competencies 1 0

PGDIP

Module Code


ADV732 Advanced Clinical Reasoning for the Critical Care Patient 20

ADV733 Retrieval and Transfer of a Critical Care Patient within Special Situations

20

ADV715 Project Design for Research 20

ADV734 Pre-hospital Critical Care Passport Competencies 2 0

MSc AWARD

Module Code


ADV716 Research Dissertation 60


11. Exceptions to Regulations

Normal University of Plymouth Regulations will apply to this pathway and award.

Disability Assist Services

This pathway is designed to enable students through an equitable experience. We

work collegiately with expert colleagues in Disability Assist (within the Learning

Gateway) to ensure students, who consider studying the MSc Pre Hospital Critical

Care/Retrieval and Transfer, receive timely advice on the support available. Students

can declare a support requirement or disability – via the Disclosure for applicants’

pages.

12. Transitional Arrangements

This is a new pathway. As such there are no transitional arrangements


13. Mapping

13.1. ILO’s against Modules Mapping

Pathway Intended Learning Outcomes Module Module Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and understanding

Comprehensive and systematic knowledge and skills in key aspects of advanced pre-hospital critical care, retrieval and transportation.

ADV729 Critical Care Management - Airway, Breathing and Circulation

2; 3; 4


2; 3; 4

ADV732 Advanced Clinical Reasoning for the Critical Care Patient

1;2;3;4


2;3

A critical understanding of pharmacological drugs / agents used in pre-hospital critical care


4


4


3


2;3

A critical understanding of the aetiology, physiology and pathophysiology of key body systems


3


3

A critical understanding of decision making theory used to make clinical decisions in critical care management.


4


3


A critical understanding of factors that determine the quality of clinical research

ADV 702 Applying Evidence to Practice

1;2


ADV 716 Research Dissertation 3

A critical understanding of the clinical research process from project development through to implementation


1;2;4

ADV715 Project Design for Research 1;2;3;4;5

ADV 716 Research Dissertation 1;2;3;4

Cognitive and intellectual skills

Relate their advanced knowledge base, skills and professional behaviour to the area of pre-hospital critical care, retrieval and transportation


1;2;3;4


1;2;3;4


1;2;3;4


1;2;3;

Reflect on practice, through a critical thinking, problem solving, enquiry based approach and be able to influence and implement change where appropriate.


2


2


1;2;3;4


1; 2; 3


Critically evaluate the competencies and components required for a safe, efficient pre-hospital critical care.


2

ADV730 Critical Care Management - Neurological, Environmental And Special Patient Groups

2


1;2;3;4


Appraise the modifications required for critical care delivery within hazardous areas and disaster management


3

Formulate, propose and justify advanced assessment management plans for a wide range of critically ill or injured patients, encountered within a pre-hospital environment.


1

Critically evaluate evidence based research in order to apply it appropriately to the domain of critical care delivery


3

ADV715 Project Design for Research 1;2;5

ADV 716 Research Dissertation 1; 2;4

Plan a research project from conception to implementation

ADV715 Project Design for Research 1;2;3;4;5


Provide exemplary leadership skills to allow the sharing of best practice within the person’s clinical environment


4

Key and transferable skills

Critically evaluate information from and about critical care patients in order to determine timely interventions and appropriate care pathways.


1;2;3


Critically apply ethical and legal judgements within clinical decision making


1


1


4


2

Critically apply contemporary regulations, guidelines and recommendations of their professional bodies (and employer or future employer), in relation to their professional practice


1;2


1;2


1;2;3


2;3;4

Formulate clinical research questions ADV715 Project Design for Research 2;5

ADV 716 Research Dissertation 1;2

Systematically review databases using appropriate search terms relevant to the clinical question under investigation


2



Design a research study ADV715 Project Design for Research 1;2;3;4;5


Undertake data collection using qualitative and quantitative methods as appropriate


Write up research findings to a standard appropriate for publication



Employment related skills

Consistently promote patient safety through risk assessment, such as identifying red flag issues both on clinical and management issues


1;4

ADV733 Retrieval and Transfer of a Critical Care Patient within Special Situations.

3

Critical application of the principles and practices of Clinical Governance


1;4

Exercise exemplar qualities of leadership, followership and team working within the various intra-professional or inter-professional groups operating in critical care.


4

Through a passport / portfolio, demonstrate transferrable skills gained through undertaking the degree and associated clinical practice development

ADV731 Pre-hospital Critical Care Passport Competencies 1

1

ADV734 Pre-hospital Critical Care Passport Competencies 2

1

Leadership skills to allow the evaluation and synthesis of current practice in order to promote change, within the person’s clinical environment


4

Practical skills

Competently perform advanced assessment and interventions which promote safe and effective patient management within critical care, retrieval or transportation, covering a range of patients from birth to the older adult lifespan


1


1


2


1

Demonstrate exemplary communication and leadership qualities when working within a multidisciplinary environment.


4


Contribute towards recognising and rectify deficits within clinical knowledge and practice


2


2


1;2


2;3

Effectively contribute towards their own competency development, working with their clinical peers to develop and refine clinical practice as required for their role


1;2;3;4


1;2;3;4


1;2;3;4


1;2;3;4


Module Intended Learning Outcomes

PGCERT

Applying Evidence to Practice (20 Credits)

Learning Outcomes (ALOs 1;2;3;4) 1. Demonstrate a critical knowledge of research

paradigms, a range of research methodologies relevant to EBP, and methods of interpretation of research findings

2. Demonstrate a critical understanding of the concepts and tools of EBP, including types of evidence, methods of critical appraisal and use of electronic databases to access evidence

3. Demonstrate a critical and in depth evidence-based knowledge of a chosen field of practice

4. Apply knowledge of change theory and implementation strategies to formulate and critically analyse a plan for change in chosen area of practice.

Critical Care Management - Airway, Breathing and Circulation (20 credits)

Learning Outcomes (ALOs 1;2;3;4) 1. Demonstrate the practical skills needed for

advanced airway, respiratory, and cardiovascular assessment and interventions; to promote effective critical care management, incorporating legal and ethical considerations.

2. Critically discuss and apply the underpinning knowledge required to manage advanced airway, respiratory, and cardiovascular critical care scenarios.

3. Critically review the aetiology, physiology, pathophysiology of key body systems relevant to the module.

4. Analyse the pharmacology of the key drugs / agents used in the critical care management of airway, breathing and circulatory emergencies and evaluate their effectiveness

Critical Care Management - Neurological, Environmental and Special Patient Groups (20 credits)

Learning Outcomes (ALOs 1;2;3;4) 1. Demonstrate the practical skills needed for

advanced neurological and environmental emergencies as well as in special patient group assessment and interventions; to promote effective critical care management, incorporating legal and ethical considerations.

2. Critically discuss and apply the underpinning knowledge required to manage advanced neurological and environmental emergencies as well as special patient group critical care scenarios.

3. Critically review the aetiology, physiology and pathophysiology of key body systems relevant to the module.


4. Analyse the pharmacology of the key drugs / agents used in the critical care management of neurological, environmental emergency and special patient groups and evaluate their effectiveness.

Pre-hospital critical care passport competencies 1 (0 credits)

Learning Outcomes (ALOs 1)

1. Produce a documented passport of skills and competencies which indicate a satisfactory level of achievement

PGDIP Advanced Clinical Reasoning for the Critical Care Patient (20 credits)

Learning Outcomes (ALOs 1;2;3;4) 1. Propose and justify advanced assessment

and management plans for a wide variety of critically ill or injured patients, encountered within a pre-hospital environment.

2. Refine the advanced inter-arrest and post return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) management, required in pre-hospital critical care.

3. Critically appraise the pharmacological interventions currently available for pre-hospital critical care and discuss any potential pharmacological interventions available in the future.

4. Draw upon a range of clinical decision making theory to make reasoned, safe and ethical clinical decisions.

Retrieval and Transfer of a Critical Care Patient within Special Situations (20 credits)

Learning Outcomes (ALOs 1;2;3;4) 1. Confidently perform effective critical care

retrieval and transfers, covering a range of patients from birth to the older adult lifespan.

2. Critically evaluate the competencies and components required for a safe, efficient and collaborative retrieval or transfer.

3. Appraise the modifications required for critical care delivery within hazardous areas and disaster management

4. Demonstrate exemplary communication and leadership qualities when working within a multidisciplinary environment.

Project Design for Research (20 Credits)

Learning Outcomes (ALOs 1;2;3;4;5) 1. Conduct an advanced literature review and

write a critical and analytical review of relevant related research literature

2. Define and refine a research question appropriate to the award title and the literature

3. Identify and justify appropriate research design, methods and analysis techniques for their proposed research


4. Outline and discuss critically ethical issues for the proposed research

5. Formulate and critically discuss a research proposal in line with the above outcomes

Pre-hospital Critical Care Passport Competencies 2 (0 credits)

Learning Outcomes (ALOs 1)

1. Produce a documented passport of skills and competencies which indicate a satisfactory level of achievement

MASTERS DEGREE Research Dissertation (60 credits)

Learning Outcomes (ALOs 1;2;3;4) 1. Design and conduct an individual piece of

research in the context of an evaluation of contemporary literature in an appropriate area to their chosen award.

2. Identify and critically discuss ethical issues for their chosen area

3. Critically justify the selection of appropriate methodology and data analysis techniques

4. Interpret and critically discuss research findings in the context of contemporary literature, policy and practice in their chosen area


13.2. Assessment against Modules Mapping

Module Summative Assessment Methods

PGCERT


Coursework 100% (ALOs 1;2;3;4) Literature critique of evidence in a chosen area of practice relevant to the student and the production of an action plan to address best practice, including a critical evaluation of limitations and opportunities for change in practice; this will be supported by session on writing skills.


Coursework 50% (ALOs 2;3;4) 2000 word assignment that critically evaluates effective critical care management of a patient condition that involves management of the airway, breathing and circulation. This will include analytical discussion around pathophysiology, pharmacological interventions and any legal and ethical implications. OSCE 50% (ALOs 1;2;4) Formal practical examination which will involve 2 stations. There will be an unseen clinical scenario set in each and the student will need to perform effective and safe critical care management within the simulated environment. Each station will be 20 minutes in duration.

Critical Care Management - Neurological, Environmental and Special Patient Groups (20 credits)

Coursework 50% (ALOs 2;3;4) 2000 word assignment that critically evaluates effective critical care management of a patient condition from a special patient group. This will include analytical discussion around pathophysiology, pharmacological interventions and any legal and ethical implications. OSCE 50% (ALOs 1;2;4) Formal practical examination which will involve 2 stations. There will be an unseen clinical scenario set in each and the student will need to perform effective and safe critical care management within the simulated environment. Each station will be 20 minutes in duration.


Practice (pass / fail) Completion of passport checklist of skills, assessed by a suitably qualified mentor within the practice environment. Can be completed through direct patient contact or through simulation.

PGDIP

Advanced Clinical Reasoning for the Critical Care Patient (20 credits)

Examination 50% (ALOs 1;2;3;4) Test paper that consists of 100 unseen objective test questions, under timed conditions, which will assess both clinical reasoning and advanced underpinning knowledge required to support decision making in critical care. VIVA VOCE 50% (ALOs 1;2;3;4) Practical test (oral assessment) which will involve critical verbal discussion of an unseen critical care case scenario. The viva will be 30 minutes in duration.


Retrieval and Transfer of a Critical Care Patient within Special Situations (20 credits)

Coursework 50% (ALOs 2;3;4) 2000 word assignment that critically evaluates effective critical care management of a patient condition from a hazardous situation. This may include analytical discussion around risk assessment, extrication, pharmacological interventions, multidisciplinary working and any legal and ethical implications. OSCEs 50% (ALOs 1;2;4) Formal practical examination which will involve 1 station. There will be an unseen clinical scenario set and the student will need to perform and effective and safe critical care management plan for retrieval and transportation within the simulated environment. The station will be 30 minutes in duration.


Coursework 100% (ALOs 1;2;3;4;5) Part 1- 2000 word research proposal ready to be submitted to ethic committee review. Part 2- 2000 word essay: extended literature review and critical review of proposed study design and methodology in the context of contemporary research in their chosen area.


Practice (pass / fail) Completion of passport checklist of skills, assessed by a suitably qualified mentor within the practice environment. Can be completed through direct patient contact or through simulation.

MASTERS DEGREE

Research Dissertation (60 credits)

Coursework 100% (ALOs 1;2;3;4) Part 1 (90% of marks)- 12000-15000 word project report which demonstrates a critical review of the literature; ability to critically justify selected design, methodology and analysis; provides an outline and discussion of ethical issues; and an ability to critically discuss and interpret research findings in the context of contemporary literature, policy and practice in their chosen area Part 2 (10% of marks)- poster and abstract in the context of contemporary research in their chosen area.


13.3. Skills against Modules Mapping

Module Skills

PGCERT


Conducting advanced search strategies, through effective use of search terms, widening and narrowing searches, Boolean searching, and search filters.

Conducting an advanced literature review

Appraising the evidence using appropriate appraisal tools

Applying the evidence to practice: barriers, theories and strategies for implementing change, clinical guidelines and inter-professional practice, models of change

Gathering and analysing qualitative and quantitative data using appropriate software

Reviewing papers using CASP

Demonstrating a critical understanding of the concepts and tools of EBP, including types of evidence, methods of critical appraisal and use of electronic databases to access evidence


Advanced airway assessment and management including, rapid sequence induction, difficult airway management, surgical airway and video laryngoscopy.

Advanced breathing assessment and management including: trauma and medical chest assessment, understanding and interpreting advanced “B” monitoring including ETCO2 and pulse oximetry; advanced “B” practical skills including thoracostomy, intercostal chest drain insertion and others..

Advanced circulation assessment and management, including the use of intravenous fluids (including blood and products), advanced “c” interventions including central venous access, interosseous access, use of vasopressors and ionotropes. Understanding and interpreting advanced “C” monitoring including arterial lines, central lines and others.

Using ultrasound to facilitate A B and C assessment

Medical documentation and legal / ethical application


Critical Care Management - Neurological, Environmental and Special Patient Groups (20 Credits)

Advanced neurological assessment and management including neurological emergencies (advanced care / decision making in CVA’s, epilepsy and others).

Advanced Assessment of injury (spontaneous and traumatic)

Advanced pain management: physiology, anatomy, pharmacology and blocks.

Maintaining anaesthesia in different disease states.

Advanced secondary survey and ‘medical’ assessment (including Burns assessment)

Fracture realignment /care of open fractures/ amputation.

Principles and practices of delivering critical care to: o Paediatric patients (new born, infant and child) o Pregnant patients o Bariatric patients o The elderly o Other specialist groups.

Interpretation of investigations / Decision making processes

Medical documentation and legal and ethical application


Reflection on progress to increase self-awareness, confidence and competence;

Signing and dating competencies to the required standard;

Documenting constructive feedback.

PGDIP Advanced Clinical Reasoning for the Critical Care Patient (20 credits)

Advanced inter-arrest and post return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) care

Safe sedation and maintenance of anaesthesia (building on module 3)

The practical critical care management of;

Pulmonary embolism

Asthma

Neurological emergencies and raised intracranial pressure

Sepsis (in meningitis)

Myocardial infarction

Croup

Diabetic and endocrine emergencies

Burns (building on assessment from module 3)

Maternal emergencies (eclampsia)

The psychotic / violent patient


Retrieval and transfer of a Critical Care Patient within Special Situations (20 credits)

Practical skills within Retrieval and Transfer:

CoBaTrICE competencies (or similar)

Planning and delivering a transfer

Undertaking specialist transfers e.g. contagious diseases

Practical skills within environmental medicine (cold / heat / altitude / diving etc.).

Special situations: Principles and practice of : o Advanced extrication techniques o Mass casualty scene management (bronze + /-

silver level) o Disaster management and preparedness o CBRN o Confined space rescue o Suspension / crush syndromes


Designing and conducting an individual piece of research in the context of an evaluation of contemporary literature in an appropriate area to their chosen award

Using PICO and SPIDER to identify clinically relevant questions

Defining and refining research questions

Identifying and appraising appropriate research design and methods

Identifying and appraising data analysis methods

Consideration of ethical issues in research

Formulating a research proposal


Reflection on progress to increase self-awareness, confidence and competence;

Signing and dating competencies to the required standard;

Documenting constructive feedback.


MASTERS DEGREE Research Dissertation (60 credits)

Demonstration of a critical review of the literature to inform research question, design, methodology and analysis

Using PICO and SPIDER to identify clinically relevant questions

Ability to critically justify selected design, methodology and analysis

Ability to outline and discuss ethical issues related to chosen research area

Ability to critically discuss and interpret research findings in the context of contemporary literature, policy and practice in their chosen area.

Writing up research findings to a level suitable for publication in a peer reviewed journal

Designing and conducting an individual piece of research in the context of an evaluation of contemporary literature in an appropriate area to their chosen award


Appendix 1

Criteria for appropriate Mentors

Mentor specification:

The mentor will have normally have considerable experience of Prehospital

Retrieval and Transfer Medicine. Mentors with additonal relevant experience

from allied specialities e.g. , Emergency Medicine, Intensive care or

Anaesthesia are also encouraged.

They will have normally have regular programmed clinical activities within the

Prehospital Retrieval and Transfer environment where they can directly

supervise the student. The work environment must include regular exposure

to undifferentiated, critically ill medical and trauma patients of all age ranges.

Ideally the student and mentor would have access to, and training in,

simulation and simulation equipment (access to facilities may be supported by

the University of Plymouth).

- Mentors will normally be consultant level practitioners in Prehospital

Emergency Medicine, Emergency Medicine, Intensive care or

Anaesthesia.

- Advanced or specialist practitioners (e.g. of paramedic or nursing

background) in critical care with a prehospital background and

appropriate qualifications can also be considered as mentors.

Mentors will have experience of education supervision and clinical supervision

both in hospital and out of hospital environment.


Appendix 2

Template letter for Employer Support to enrol on the pathway

(This should be copied onto headed paper indicating their employing

organisation logo etc.)

TITLE OF MANAGER SUPPORTING THE STUDENT

NAME OF MANAGER SUPPORTING THE STUDENT

ADDRESS

CONTACT DETAILS

DATE

To

Pathway Lead

MSc Prehospital Critical Care – Retrieval and Transfer

Peninsula Allied Health Centre (PAHC)

University of Plymouth

Derriford Road

PL6 8BH

REEFERNECE: LETTER OF SUPPORT FOR THE APPLICANT AND MENTOR

Dear Sir or Madam

This letter is to confirm that [INSERT STUDENT NAME] has the full support of this

organisation / Trust with their application to study on the MSc Prehospital Critical Care –

Retrieval and Transfer pathway.

I can confirm that they have a recent Disclosure and Barring Service check (DBS, formerly

CRB) at an enhanced level, prior to the point of entry on to the programme (this is within the

last 3 years). I have provided a copy for your records, attached to this letter.

I can also confirm that the Mentor [INSERT NAME OF MENTOR] who is based at [INSERT

PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT FOR THE MENTOR] is also supported by this organisation as

being suitable for the applicant. [ADDRESS / CONTACT DETAILS OF MENTOR]

Signed

[INSERT NAME OF SUPPORTING MANAGER]


13.3 Exit award PgCert Advanced Professional Development Intended Learning Outcomes Knowledge and understanding

On successful completion graduates should have developed: 8. A deep, comprehensive and systematic understanding in key aspects of

professional practice; 9. An understanding of international, national and local policies and guidelines

informing their practice area; 10. An ability to apply knowledge and skills to their individual area of practice

Cognitive and intellectual skills

On successful completion graduates should have developed ability to: 10. Relate their advanced knowledge base, skills and professional behaviour to

their own professional practice area; 11. Use personal reflection to analyse self and own actions, through a critical

thinking, problem solving, enquiry based approach; 12. Critically discuss the competencies and components required for safe,

efficient and ethical health and social care practice;

Key and transferable skills

On successful completion graduates should have developed the ability to: 8. Critically evaluate relevant information in their professional practice in order to

determine timely interventions and appropriate care pathways; 9. Critically apply contemporary policy and guidelines in relation to their

professional practice; 10. Systematically and critically review databases using appropriate search terms;

Employment related skills

On successful completion graduates should have developed: 5. Advanced communication skills required to liaise with the healthcare team

involved in the their own professional practice; 6. An ability to systematically review the evidence base within their own

professional practice; 7. A problem solving approach to their area of professional practice based on

critical reflection, appraisal and application of evidence; Practical skills

On successful completion graduates should have developed the ability to: 5. Demonstrate advanced communication skills and application of these within a

health and social care environment; 6. Use critical personal reflection to problem solve the critical application of skills

in a problem solving approach; 7. Effectively maintain their own development, through identifying, evaluating

and maintaining capabilities and qualities to support effective working within their role.


Please note all modules below map directly to the above learning outcomes for

PgCert Advanced Professional Development

- ADV715 Project Design for Research - ADV703 Occupation as the Focus of Contemporary Practice - ADV708 Injection Therapy for Health Professionals (Botulinum Toxin) - ADV709 Injection Therapy for Health Professionals (Corticosteroid) - ADV710 Pathomechanics and Rehabilitation of Gait and Balance - ADV739 Rehabilitation: Cognition, Perception and Behaviour - ADV712 Supported Independent Study - ADV740 Enhancing Practice in Chronic Pulmonary Conditions - ADV741 Nutrition and Dietetics in Infancy and Childhood - ADV742 Nutrition and Dietetics in Common Paediatric Disorders - ADV743 Clinical Dietetics for Infants and Children - ADV720 Dietetic Management of Inherited Metabolic Disorders (IMD) - ADV744 Neonatal Nutrition - ADV723 Advanced Practice with Children and Families - ADV745 Working in the Professional Environment with Children and Families - ADV746 Children, Young People and their Families and the Legal Process - ADV726 Assessing Adult Learners In Their Practice - ADV727 Supporting Adult Learners in Professional Practice Settings - ADV728 Safeguarding Children - ADV729 Critical Care Management - Airway, Breathing and Circulation - ADV730 Critical Care Management - Neurological, Environmental and Special

Patient Groups - ADV731 Pre-hospital Critical Care Passport Competencies 1 - ADV732 Advanced Clinical Reasoning for the critical care patient - ADV733 Retrieval and transfer of a critical care patient within special

situations - ADV734 Pre-hospital Critical Care Passport Competencies 2 - ADV735 Advancing the Management of Long Term Conditions - ADV749 Dietetic Practice: Supported Study - ADV750 Occupational Therapy Practice: Supported Study - ADV751 Physiotherapy Practice: Supported Study - ADV752 Social Work Practice: Supported Study - ADV753 Assessing Adult Learners In Their Practice (Social Work) - ADV754 Supporting Adult Learners in Professional Practice Settings (Social

Work) - ADV755 Application of Law and Policy in Safeguarding Adults - ADV756 Advanced Critical Reflection, Risk and Decision Making - ADV757 Advanced Practice in Safeguarding Adults - ADV758 Supporting the Needs of the Frail Older Person - ADV759 International Perspectives and Practice Requirements for Health and

Social Care Practitioners - ADV760 Participation for Children and Young People - ADV761 Assessment and Management of Foot and Lower Limb

Musculoskeletal Conditions - ADV762 Recognition and Reduction of Risk to the Lower Limb in the Patient

with Diabetes


- ADV763 Facilitating Collaborative Patient Management and Flow - ADV764 Leading Professionals, Managing Aspirations for Self and Others - ADV765 The Aging Person: Society, Body and Mind - ADV766 Innovation in an ever changing marketplace- entrepreneurship for

health and social care professionals

- ADV767 Advanced Clinical Reasoning in musculoskeletal conditions

- ADV768 Clinical Assessment and Management in Neurology

Documents

Pathway Specification Pre Hospital Critical Care ...€¦ · A critical and systematic understanding of pharmacological drugs / agents used in pre-hospital critical care 4. A critical