Principles of care of the acutely ill adult in the critical care environment

This module is specifically for adult nurses working within a level 2/3 facility caring for critical care patients. The module will enable the learner to work towards completion of the Step 2 & 3 competencies of the National Competency Framework for Adult Critical Care Nurses.

Utilising a problem-solving approach this module will build upon the students existing knowledge and experience gained during their completion of the Step 1 competencies of the National Competency Framework for Adult Critical Care Nurses. The content will incorporate the core curriculum of the framework allowing the learner to demonstrate a systematic understanding of anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology using a systems-based approach including the respiratory, cardiovascular, renal, gastrointestinal, neurological and integumentary systems. 

Learners will critically synthesize the clinical interventions and approaches to patient assessment. Critical awareness of national initiatives such as Sepsis 6 will assist the learner in recognising health abnormalities and enable them to competently assess, plan, implement and evaluate appropriate care underpinned by the synthesis of contemporary research and evidence. Learners will also have underpinning knowledge of investigations, interpretation and application of results and of current and emerging treatment modalities.

Entry Criteria

• Effective registration with an appropriate Professional Statutory Regulatory Body (PSRB) in health care, such as NMC or HCPC
• Minimum one year post-registration experience, preferably in critical care
• Possess BSc (Hons) 2:2 degree award minimum
• IELTS 6.5 in all criteria
• Currently be employed in practice and have the support of their manager in undertaking the module

Non Standard

• Possess a BSc or 60 credits equivalent at level 6 which must include a research module (or equivalent)
• Applicants who fall short of the above entry requirements may use the RPL mechanism to contribute towards the above criteria at the discretion of the Programme Leader

Key information

PCPH 5012 is a postgraduate module in which you will be expected to produce assessed work at level 7, postgraduate standard. If it is sometime since you produced an academic essay or undertook other kinds of academically assessed work, you will be well advised to undertake some academic preparatory work. Advice and support can be provided by the Module Leader.

How to apply

Online application forms and guidance for application process