High Dependency and Critical Care of the Neonate, Infant or Child: 2 (Level 4) 

This course explores issues of a socio-political nature, biological science (neurological, gastro-intestinal and thermoregulation) and clinical practice to enhance and meet the management needs of this group of neonates, infants and children and their families within a high technological environment. A focus on anatomy and physiology will lead into the pathophysiology of these identified systems. A blended learning approach will cater for the specialities of neonates, children’s high dependency care and children’s intensive care. Management topics will include neonatal surgical issues, trauma care of children, nutrition, advocacy, consent, family issues, palliative care and bereavement.

• Evaluate the impact of socio-political-economic issues of the health service on the high dependency and critical care specialities in relation to the child, family and multi-disciplinary team
• Critically appraise concepts of assessment and care within critical illness in neonates, infants and children in order to develop appropriate evidence-based care
• Critically appraise the local, national and international evidence-base which underpins the management of the highly dependent or critically ill neonate or child to ensure delivery of high standards of care
• Examine different approaches to decision-making utilised in practice to ensure holistic assessment of the high dependency or critically ill neonate or child and management that needs are met within a flexible environment
• Teach, manage and appraise the role of the nurse and lead the multi-disciplinary team in the high technology environment to ensure the management needs of the highly dependent or critically ill neonate or child are met, utilising flexible interpersonal and communication skills
• Justify the ethico-legal position of the multi-disciplinary team, child and family to ensure a balanced approach to managing such situations in the high technological environment

Blended learning. Lecture engagement, guided online study, tutorials and independent learning.

Total student activity: 200 hours