Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease - management in primary care (degree level) (HEAD385)

This module focuses on the key principles and issues involved to support and treat patients with long term respiratory conditions within primary care.
CPD for healthcare professionals
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Key features

This 20 credit degree-level module has been developed to support primary care practitioners in the development of knowledge and skills to diagnose, support and manage patients with long term respiratory conditions and teach you to focus on the key principles and issues involved in this.

The course tutors will deliver a blended teaching approach utilising lectures, small group discussion, peer teaching, case studies, demonstrations, video, patient narrative and role play.

Throughout the module, you will be encouraged to critique updated guidelines and national strategies, consider the global impact on patients and develop knowledge and skills to improve practice.

Module code

HEAD385*

Credits

20

FHEQ level

Level 6 - bachelors degree

Location

Exeter

* This module was previously known as HEAD368

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Course details

On completion of the module you will be able to:
  • Recognise major respiratory risk factors within a practice population and assist with primary prevention of chronic respiratory conditions.
  • Identify the pathological changes characteristic of asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and relate these to patients presenting in Primary Care.
  • Access critically reflect upon and evaluate National Guidelines and frameworks for clinical excellence in this field.
  • Rehearse and develop skills in Respiratory history taking, including consideration of differential diagnoses.
  • Plan, propose and implement evidence-based treatment options and work in partnership with patients to promote self management and prevent exacerbations.
  • Synthesize knowledge and understanding of asthma and COPD in order to build an holistic care package including consideration of psychological support and end of life issues where indicated.
This module has a non-accredited, attendance only option for practitioners who feel that they wish to attend for clinical learning and not submit assignments. A certificate of attendance will be issued. This may be suitable for those who work outside primary care or those who do not wish to obtain academic accreditation.
If you wish to take this option please contact the module lead for a discussion.

Assessment

There are two parts to the assessment:
  1. completion of case studies
  2. practical logs.
(Please note that these assessment details are provisional – if you require further information please contact the module lead or the Professional Development Unit).

Module dates

10, 17, 24, 31 January, 7, 14 February 2025
Module dates may be subject to change.
Please be aware that all modules run to minimum numbers.
In the event that there are low numbers, this module may be rescheduled to an alternative date.
Some modules are also subject to maximum numbers.
This module can be studied as a standalone module or as an optional module towards our BSc (Hons) Professional Development in Health and Social Care course and a number of associated pathways.
For further information please contact the Professional Development Unit at pdu@plymouth.ac.uk.

Admissions information

Additional information and documentation required for the application process.
  • Application forms.
  • Change of name forms.
  • Pre-course information.
  • Downloadable guides.
  • Student card.
Admissions information Additional information and documentation required for the application process.Access to application forms, download guides and confirmation information. Visit our admissions homepage.

Our students say...

  • A“An excellent module. I would highly recommend it. I now feel confident to do asthma / COPD reviews with support.”

  • A“Very professional course, expert tutors. Very enjoyable, useful and I will and have recommended it to colleagues.”

  • A“An excellent course, well run, really informative. Has given me the confidence to increase my knowledge and treat patients.”

  • A“This course has made an enormous difference to my practice, helping me to make sure that I give the best up to date and evidence-based care to my patients. I have also been able to share learning with my whole team.”

Module lead – Fiona Cook

“This module has been developed by practitioners for practitioners with input from a wide variety of respiratory practitioners from hospital and out of hospital areas as well as feedback from patients. There is a strong emphasis on management in primary care and patient self-management.

The vital role of multi-disciplinary and multi-agency care is explored and practitioners are encouraged to think broadly and creatively about lung health across the life course as well as patient journeys with respiratory conditions.

Since the module was first run five years ago it has evolved and developed in response to the changing environment of healthcare and feedback has indicated that delegates feel that their knowledge, skills, competence and confidence has been enhanced to the benefit of their patients.”
Fiona Cook 2
Fiona Cook
Additional input will be provided by local specialist clinicians as and when appropriate.
 

Entry requirements

To be eligible for the module you must be:
  • a registered health professional either with the Nursing and Midwifery Council or the Health and Care Professions Council in possession of previous study at level 5 or a foundation degree
  • currently in clinical practice with access to a suitably qualified mentor (for example, a GP, senior nurse colleague or another suitably qualified health professional).

Fees