Consultation and Clinical Examination Skills

The Module is suitable for Health care practitioners who will be professionally supported to develop their practice to enhanced level. It is relevant for Registered Paramedics, Nurses and Allied Health Professionals working within a variety of primary and secondary care settings, ranging from GP practices and clinics, walk-in and primary care centres, unscheduled care or 'out of hours' services, community care services, pre-assessment Clinics and acute care settings.

This module will focus learning on regional anatomical systems which are: Respiratory, Cardiovascular, Head and Neck, Lymphatic system, Abdominal, Neurological, Musculoskeletal, Dermatology and Genitourinary. Students will learn how to complete a systematic and proficient clinical consultation to include: how to obtain an in-depth history and a focused systematic physical examination. Students will learn how to use the information gained during the consultation to formulate and refine differential diagnoses. These skills have traditionally been viewed as disciplines of the medical profession, however, through theoretical and practical approaches the student’s prior assessment abilities, are built upon, the purpose of which is to expand and enhance the student’s assessment and clinical reasoning skills in order to improve patient care and meet evolving service needs. The focus of learning is on clinical indications: in which students develop an understanding of the signs and symptoms elicited during the consultation that require further assessment and or referral. Students are required to develop critical reflective skills in order to foster self-awareness of safe practice and what is required in order to meet their own developmental and learning needs.

This module is delivered on campus.

Assessment

A 3000 written case study focusing on a Consultation the student has completed and includes critical reflection that applies the contemporary evidence base.

Completion of a Module Portfolio: includes reflection of learning needs throughout the module and showcases the students Consultation skills across the regional anatomical systems.

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