This module focuses on developing an in-depth understanding of the psychosocial, ethical and spiritual issues encountered by patients with life-limiting illness and their families/carers. By undertaking this module, students will have the opportunity to explore areas related to equity and diversity; cultural competence; psychological distress and family dynamics; ethical and legal dilemmas; communication skills, grief, loss and bereavement, and professional burnout relevant to palliative care practice.

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 support and relieving psychological, social and spiritual distress among patients and families/carers who are facing death. Possessing a broad and deep understanding of the theory and skills required to provide psychosocial and spiritual support, students will be well positioned to assume advanced clinical roles in a variety of clinical settings.

Assessment

• 4,000 word case study

Assessment/submission date: TBC

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and Understanding:   

• Articulate a deep and systematic understanding of the main psychosocial, cultural, ethical and spiritual issues in palliative care and their impact on patients, families/carers and the bereaved

Intellectual skills:

• Critically analyse the role of effective communication and therapeutic relationships in providing psychosocial and spiritual care
• Critically evaluate the knowledge and evidence base of new and existing strategies pertinent to providing psychosocial and spiritual care

Practical Skills:

• Recognise, evaluate and respond to the needs of marginalised populations, sexual minorities and different cultural groups 

Transferable skills:

• Explore and debate key ethical dilemmas in palliative care and critically analyse clinical complexities which require ethical decision-making
• Demonstrate effective advanced communication skills within a complex multi-professional environment