Course Catalogue

View Specification Document | Reading List

This is course 1 of a four course graduate diploma programme. It is delivered by experienced clinicians and academics in the field to guide the student through the best current evidence to learn the core skills and knowledge required to manage patients with mild to moderate lymphoedema. Workshops, seminars, mentor support in the workplace and on-line learning provide a range of practical and theoretical experiences to develop skills as critically reflective lymphoedema practitioners.

This is a 15 week workplace learning course with four taught days; workplace learning is supported by online learning and workplace mentors.

Applicants will normally hold a first degree or equivalent and a professional qualification of either Registered Nurse or Allied Health Professional. They must have a minimum clinical experience of equivalent of 2 years full time employment since qualifying; currently be working with or have pre-arranged access to patients with chronic oedema/lymphoedema; have confirmed support of management.

A 2000-word critical discussion of the evidence supporting lymphoedema core skills (ILOs 5&7; 50% weighting).

Two 1000-word case studies with critical reflection of clinical decisions (ILOs 1-4, 6: each with 25% weighting) based on completed patient assessments, treatment plans and reviews for mild/moderate lymphoedema patients on standard documentation.

To develop the students' knowledge and skills in assessment and management of patients with chronic oedema/lymphoedema

By the end of this course students will be able to:

1. undertake a comprehensive assessment of a patient and determine or exclude a diagnosis of lymphoedema

2. discuss the implications of key-findings on the treatment decisions applied to the management plan

3. demonstrate the ability to apply relevant treatment strategies with uncomplicated chronic oedema/lymphoedema including appropriate referral

4. identify and appraise strategies to maximise the potential for patient self-management through negotiation and joint review of management goals, and tailored education and support.

5. critically discuss the principles and application of risk reduction strategies

6. critically reflect on own practice

7. critically appraise the evidence base for practice

Achievement of grade D3 or above in each written assignment, attendance at all taught days, a minimum of 10 hours with a workplace mentor and achievement of clinical competencies.

Achievement of clinical competencies assessed and signed off by a mentor with whom the student has worked for a minimum of 10 hours (ILOs 1, 3&4).