This module is aimed at practitioners working in a semi-autonomous role treating patients in unscheduled care settings. It is ideal for paramedics, junior nurse practitioners, practice nurses or senior emergency department nurses. Enhanced Clinical Assessment Skills (ECAS) or an equivalent physical assessment skills course is a prerequisite to attending this module. Students will need to have a clinical practice assessor working with them regularly throughout, who must be a consultant grade clinician, registrar or an ANP / ENP who has successfully completed this module or equivalent.

Experienced healthcare professionals are increasingly being called on to develop autonomous skills to meet the requirements of both patient and provider. Developing skills in minor illness and injuries will enhance the flexibility of the practitioner working in the emergency and urgent care setting.

This module will equip you with the skills to assess, diagnose, treat, and refer within your scope of practice. You will cover all aspects of minor illness and minor injuries management, including history taking, examination, differential diagnosis, and treatment.

Upon successful completion of this module as a standalone entity, credit gained could be utilised as part of the BSc (Hons) Professional Practice in Health and Social Care for level 6 and the PgDiP Enhanced Professional Practice for level 7.

Study at Level 6 or above within the last five years. Successful completion of Enhanced Clinical Assessment skills or an equivalent physical assessment skills module.

There are two parts of assessment. Students must pass both parts in order to successfully complete the module.

i. Case study – You will complete a two part 4000 word in-depth critical case study relating to minor illness or minor injuries. You will consider the provision of services and why your patient accessed your service in the way they did. You will thencritically evaluate the clinical decision-making skills involved in the diagnosis and management of your patient.

ii. Practice Assessment Document – you will complete a practice assessment document including a range of clinical skills relevant to patients with minor illness/injury and complete reflections for a selection of these skills. You must have a practice assessor to sign off the individual skills at the required level of practice.

You will develop the skills and knowledge to autonomously manage the client presenting with a minor illness or injury.

You will be given the opportunity to explore the theory and practice of minor illness and injury management and will investigate how good practice can be developed in your care setting.