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Short courses & CPD
Nursing & Health

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

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

 

5 days on campus

 

Course overview

This module addresses the guidelines for critical care nursing as described by the Critical Care Nurse Education Review Forum, incorporating the Critical Care National Competency Framework Step 3.

Standard University fee applies once all funded places have been allocated.

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Where you study

Lectures are delivered both on campus and online.

 

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

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

Career opportunities

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

 
 

Part-time

2024/25 entry

Fee for applicants:
£750

For 20 credits

  • Length: 5 days on campus
  • Start date: January
  • Level: Degree
  • Credits: 30

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Service user and carer involvement

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

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