Key topics

• The biological principles and classifications of different agents
• The safe and effective quality  care of patients receiving systemic anti-cancer therapies
• Clinical trials and innovative therapies
• Assessing and managing toxicity and side effects safely
• Exploring patient experience and outcomes

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the module at Level 6 you should be able to demonstrate achievement of the following learning outcomes:

• Critically discuss the mode of action of the major groups of SACT agents – cytotoxic, biological therapies and hormone therapy
• Evaluate the physiological impact of systemic anti-cancer therapies including chemotherapeutic agents on individuals
• Explore the knowledge and skills required to safely assess, plan, implement and evaluate the care of PABC throughout the SACT pathway
• Analyse strategies to prevent, reduce, educate and manage SACT- related toxicities in collaboration with the patient, carers, and the multi-professional team to improve outcomes

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 the biological principles of systemic anti-cancer therapies (SACT) including cytotoxic, hormone and biological therapies and critically explore their implications for practice
• Critically appraise the physical and psycho-social impact of SACT on the patient and their carers
• Critically analyse the clinical judgement and decision-making skills required to safely assess, plan, deliver and evaluate comprehensive care for PABC throughout the SACT pathway
• Critically evaluate and synthesise evidence to inform support, educate and apply management strategies to improve SACT service delivery, patient care and outcomes
• Critically explore the impact of professional roles on SACT service development and patient outcomes within the context of healthcare quality indicators

Dates

We are currently working on new dates for the 2022/23 academic year. Please sign up for our Education Matters newsletter here and you will be informed of the new dates by the end of June 2022.

Entry requirements

• Registered health care professionals experienced in the administration of intravenous drugs
• Currently working in a clinical area which treats patients receiving systemic anti-cancer therapy, and should be supervised by practitioners experienced in the administration of such agents

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:

• BSc Hons in Cancer Practice 
• Graduate Diploma in Cancer Practice
• MSc Cancer Care: Advanced Practice
• MSc Cancer Care
• Postgraduate Diploma Cancer Care: Advanced Practice
• Postgraduate Diploma Cancer Care
• Postgraduate Certificate in Cancer Care

We anticipate high demand for this module and will only process fully completed applications with funding confirmation. Please do not apply if you do not have funding confirmed.