Care of the critically ill child/young person (L1&2)

This module explores the specialist knowledge, practice and skills that underpin the care given to children and young people requiring or potentially requiring paediatric critical care whether medical, surgical or trauma related. These will be children who need an enhanced level of observation, monitoring and/or intervention at the level expected for level 1 or 2 critical care.

These may be children who are critically ill, critically injured or children with complex conditions who require additional nursing care for other reasons.

Students will build on existing knowledge of anatomy, physiology and embryology to develop nursing practice and understanding in a range of clinical conditions for level 1 and level 2 critical care. Consideration will be given to different areas in which this care can be delivered for example bespoke high dependency units, normal ward environments, hospices and home. The module delivery will be supported by experts from clinical practice. This module is open to nurses and other health professionals working in an environment where Level 1 and Level 2 critical care is carried out, both within an acute clinical environment and the community setting.

Course Topics

Introduction to critical care
Care of the critical ill child; respiratory, gastrointestinal, cardiac, diabetic ketoacidosis
Care of the critical ill child- sepsis and infection
Critical care transfer and transport
Pharmacology in Level 1 and 2 critical care
Palliative and end of life care
Ethics
Trauma and seizures
Respiratory physiotherapy and blood gases
Care of the critically ill child in the community

Entry Criteria

Effective registration with the NMC / HPC or other relevant professional body
Undertaken successful level 4/5 academic study
Currently be employed in practice and have the support of their manager in undertaking the module