This course will address care of the critically ill patient and is split into 3 levels – Level 1, HDU and ICU. Staff should only attend the level of the course appropriate to their current area of work.
Level 1 days (3 study days) include holistic patient assessment, introduction in ECG rhythm strips, acute kidney injury, pain management, chest auscultation, arterial blood gas interpretation.
HDU days (5 study days) additionally to Level 1 topics includes non-invasive ventilation, inotrope management, ESTEAM study day and ICP management.
ICU days (6 study days) additionally to HDU topics will include mechanical ventilation and other ICU specific topics.
The course will be assessed by the completion of mandatory competencies that relate to all theoretical subjects covered on the level specific study days.
Learning outcomes
By the end of this course you will be able to:
- Apply knowledge and understanding of normal and altered physiology to the assessment, treatment, and care of critically ill patients
- Demonstrate a systematic assessment of critically ill patients
- Construct and implement a plan of care for critically ill and deteriorating patients promoting safe, effective person- centred care, which is based on best available evidence.
- Critically reflect/appraise the ethical and legal issues associated with critical care nursing practice.
Pre-requisites
Completed mandatory probationary period.
Staff who are currently working in a Level 1 or critical care clinical area with between 6- and 18-months Level 1 or critical care experience and nominated by their line manager. Minimum 6 months in post before study day 1.
Not previously completed CDM/CADM
Duration
The course runs over a total of 14 weeks. There are six online study days : 3 days for Level 1 staff, 5 days for HDU staff and all 6 days for ICU staff. There is an expectation that in addition to these study days, the student will complete 100 hours of work-based learning and 50 hours of independent study.
Target staff group
Band 5 Registered Nurses with 6 – 18 months experience in a Level 1, HDU Level area and ICU Level area, who have not completed the CDM/CADM
Assessment requirements
Staff will be required to complete a mandatory competency booklet related to their level of the course. Results (pass/fail) will be recorded on eESS.
How to book
Application forms will be emailed to ward managers when each cohort is open for applications. Fully completed ward manager and participant applications must be completed by the closing date as late applications can’t be accepted.
Places will be confirmed via NHS email to both manager and participant after applications have closed.
Upcoming cohorts
Cohorts run 6 times a year for Level 1 staff and 4 times a year for HDU and ICU Level staff.
For exact study day dates and more information please refer to application forms
Further information
For more information contact loth.clinicalskillstraining@nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk
