Program Overview

Step 3 Competency in Adult Critical Care University Certificate in Professional Development

Overview

This level 6 module is for adult critical care nurses and those who have successfully completed step 1 and step 2.

Course Details

What You Study

You study the complex care required for critically ill patients, developing evidence-based knowledge and skills to support effective clinical decision-making. You also cover all major systems, and related pathophysiology and pharmacology linked with leadership and the step 3 competencies.

How You Learn

This module is delivered on five days over a 10-week period. You are mostly taught on campus, but a minimum of two days are delivered online. You develop your knowledge through seminars, direct supervision in the clinical area, online resources and simulation. Take part in student-led seminars based on case studies and scenarios. Network with professionals from other acute and critical care areas, focusing on reflective practice and decision-making strategies. You also study independently through weekly workbooks and reading before seminars. Through simulation training you gain teamwork, leadership and communication skills, and experience clinical practice in a learning environment. You also have tutorial support from the module team.

How You Are Assessed

You are assessed informally and formally throughout the course. After the taught sessions, you submit a draft plan of your assignment for feedback. Your formal assessment has two components:

• A 3,000-word assignment (100% of your mark) demonstrating a systematic and evaluative approach to clinical decision-making in the care of a critically ill adult patient, debating and exploring key aspects adult critical care
• A portfolio of competencies at stage 3

Entry Requirements

• You must have a minimum of one year’s experience in a critical care area, and have completed step 1 and step 2 of the National Competency Framework for Critical Care
• You should also have completed transfer of training
• Assessors supporting a nurse on this module should be a competent critical care nurse from your clinical area, as identified by the Critical Care Nurse Education Review Forum

Employability

• This course enables you to comply with national standards for critical care nursing and supports your career development in this area

Part-time Entry

• Fee for applicants: £1,158.75
• £772.50 for each 20 credits
• Length: 5 days
• Start date: November
• Level: Degree
• Credits: 30

Service User and Carer Involvement

• Service users and carers support all aspects of our students' lifecycle from recruitment to graduation.