This module examines the ways in which the scope of palliative care can be extended to improve the quality of life and death of people with dementia and other non-malignant diseases. The underpinning philosophy of this module will be based on the principle of person-centred care; communication and reframing what is traditionally labelled as ‘difficult behaviours’ to expressions of needs, desire and distress. By undertaking this module, participants will have the opportunity to explore areas related to the challenges of palliative care provision for non-malignant conditions. In addition, assessment and management of dementia, cardiorespiratory, renal, liver, and neurodegenerative conditions using a palliative care approach will be explored.

Available as a standalone module: Yes

Attendance (Please note, this is subject to change for future intakes)

Dates: For attendance information, please see the top of this page and click on ‘attendance dates’. Please note, if the module is full or closed for the intake(s) this academic year, dates may not appear. 

Venue: LSBU Havering Campus and Saint Francis Hospice

Typical intake(s): Semester 2

Entry requirements

• 120 credits at level 5 or equivalent.

• Registration on a professional register as appropriate.

• A minimum of 6 months experience in a related area of practice. 

• Student support for studying at Masters level is to be discussed with the pathway advisor. Students who have not previously undertaken study at academic Level 7 (Masters level) are advised to consider the workshop: Preparation for Masters Level Study, which can be found on the CPPD prospectus.

Career benefits

This module provides students with comprehensive knowledge and skills required to understand the challenges and complexities of providing high quality end of life care for people with dementia and other non-malignant conditions. Possessing a broad and deep understanding of the theory and skills required to contribute to the delivery and management of care for people with advanced non-malignant conditions, students will be well positioned to assume advanced clinical roles in a variety of clinical settings.

Assessment

•  4000 word essay 

Assessment/submission date: TBC

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and Understanding:       

• Articulate a deep and systematic understanding of the pathophysiology pertinent to common advanced non-malignant conditions and its impact on patient care

Intellectual skills:

• Critique the knowledge and evidence base which underpins the principles of palliative care, and critically evaluate their impact on improving quality of life and death among people with dementia and other non-malignant conditions
• Critically examine current national policies and guidelines relevant to dementia and other non-malignant conditions, and critically evaluate their effectiveness to improve practice and service development

Practical Skills:

• Demonstrate person-centred care tailored to meet the needs of people with advanced non-malignant diseases

Transferable skills:

• Actively contribute to the multi-disciplinary team’s decision-making in planning, implementing and evaluating care provided to people with advance non-malignant conditions within a contemporary palliative care context