Cost
Delivery method
Length of module
5 days
Entry requirements
Applicants should currently be caring for patients with cancer
Academic credits and level
15 credits at level 6 or 7
Course summary
The Acute Cancer Practice module is designed for all healthcare professionals who look after acute oncology patients and it is aligned to the Acute Oncology Knowledge and Skills Framework (UKONS 2018). The Acute Oncology patient pathways spans primary, urgent and acute care setting and with this perspective in mind we explore acute events related to treatment (such as toxicity) as well as those arising from the cancer itself(such as an obstruction or compression). We also explore Malignancy of Unknown Origin/ Carcinoma of Unknown Primary.
This module investigates common pathways and protocols, and it challenges students to critically analyse what this means regarding the roles, as well as, the care the patients and their families need. We also consider complexity including leadership, ethical and professional dimensions.
We implement variety of methods in this blended module, and they include overview of case studies, online activities, and face-to-face simulated scenarios.
I’m more confident when I’m looking after patients because now I understand how cancer and its treatment can lead to the patient becoming acutely ill. The module team were very supportive and always there for advice.
This module is in association with:
Key topics
Exploration and critical analysis of the Acute Oncology Pathway, services and routes of admission. The core oncological emergencies, including:
- Sepsis
- Metastatic spinal cord compression
- Malignancies of unknown origin/ carcinoma of unknown primary
- Immune- related adverse events (IRaes)
- Acute kidney injury
And a choice of optional activities including: Pain, SVCO, Hypercalcaemia, Mental Health. We also consider decision making and clinical judgement skills, ethical issues, clinical scenarios and case studies to develop these themes.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the module at Level 6 you should be able to demonstrate achievement of the following learning outcomes:
- Demonstrate a critical understanding of how cancer and its treatment can lead to a patient becoming acutely unwell, and be able to identify the common oncological emergencies
- Critically analyse and apply the relevant evidence base and research to assess, plan, implement and evaluate the care of the acutely ill cancer patient
- Critically evaluate the early warning signs and interventions associated with the common causes of acute deterioration in the cancer patient and your role within this
- Critically reflect on the importance of accurate assessment to enable good communication across the multidisciplinary team and ensure continuity of care for the acutely ill cancer patient and their family, and your role within this
- Demonstrate an awareness of the ethical issues associated with caring for an acutely ill cancer patient and their family
On successful completion of the module at Level 7 you should be able to demonstrate achievement of the following learning outcomes:
- Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of how cancer and its treatment can lead to a patient becoming acutely unwell, and be able to identify the common oncological emergencies
- Critically analyse and synthesise the relevant evidence base and research to assess, plan, implement and evaluate the care of the acutely ill cancer patient
- Critically evaluate and synthesise the early warning signs and interventions associated with the common causes of acute deterioration in the cancer patient and your role within this
- Critically reflect on the importance of accurate assessment to enable good communication across the multidisciplinary team and ensure continuity of care for the acutely ill cancer patient and their family, and your role within this
- Critically explore the complexities surrounding the ethical, socio-political and service delivery issues associated with caring for an acutely ill cancer patient and their family
Dates
April Cohort
- Thursday 14 April 2022- E-learning only
- Thursday 28 April 2022- Synchronous activities
- Thursday 5 May 2022- Synchronous activities
- Tuesday 17 May 2022- SIM Lab
- Thursday 26 May 2022- Synchronous activities
Assessment
- Level 6: 2,000 word essay
- Level 7: 3,000 word essay
Student support
Tutorials with the module leader or personal tutor are available if students require additional help with the planning and writing of their assignments. Email and telephone support are also available from the module leader/personal tutor.
The Royal Marsden School uses an online environment called Moodle which students must access during their studies to support and enhance our courses. The site provides resources and communication tools. All students will be provided with a username and password to access module specific sections as well as general learning support such as study skills and library resources. Students also have access to the David Adams Library and Electronic Resource Centre.
To get the best from the live video-conferencing sessions and enable you to participate fully you should have access to a computer or laptop with a camera and microphone. If you have any concerns or need help, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Related pathways
This stand-alone module also forms part of these pathways: