Interventional Nephrology PGCert

Program Overview

It is designed for specialist registrars, internal medicine trainees, and consultant physicians seeking advanced skills in this growing field. The program offers a blended learning approach with online modules, in-person sessions, simulation models, and hands-on training, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.

Program Outline

Interventional Nephrology, PGCert

Degree Overview:

• Aims:
• Develop skills in establishing and managing an interventional nephrology service.
• Provide comprehensive theoretical and practical training in all aspects of nephrology-focused point of care.
• Address the growing need for qualified specialists in interventional nephrology.
• Program Structure:
• Part-time, 24 months duration.
• Target Audience:
• Specialist Registrars or Internal Medicine Trainees (IMT2 or beyond).
• Consultant Physicians within Renal Medicine or relevant specialties.

Outline:

• Modules:
• Year 1:
• Point of Care Ultrasound for Interventional Nephrology:
Focuses on the theoretical basis and practical application of ultrasound in interventional nephrology.
• Renal Biopsy and Peritoneal Dialysis Catheters: Covers techniques and management of renal biopsies and peritoneal dialysis catheters.
• Clinical Practice 1: Provides supervised clinical experience in interventional nephrology.
• Year 2:
• Clinical Practice 2:
Offers further supervised clinical experience in interventional nephrology.
• Course Schedule:
• Blended learning approach:
• Online modules with interactive elements.
• In-person sessions at Newcastle University and the Sunderland Diagnostic and Interventional Nephrology Unit.
• Utilizing simulation models.
• Hands-on training in interventional procedures.
• Learning Objectives:
• Understand the theoretical foundations of interventional nephrology.
• Acquire and demonstrate practical skills in various interventional procedures.
• Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills relevant to patient care in interventional nephrology.
• Conduct independent research on specific areas of interest within interventional nephrology.

Assessment:

• Assessment Methods:
• Case studies.
• Computer-based assessments.
• Observation of professional practice.
• Oral examinations.
• Portfolios.
• Problem-solving exercises.
• Reflective logs.
• Written examinations.
• Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE).
• Assessment Criteria:
• Emphasis on knowledge, skills, and independent learning abilities relevant to interventional nephrology practice.
• Adherence to professional and ethical standards.

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods:
• Lectures.
• Seminars.
• Practical laboratory and workshop sessions.
• Group work activities.
• Faculty:
• Dr James Andrews: Consultant Interventional Nephrologist and Module Lead (POCUS).
• Dr Rauri A. Clark: Consultant Interventional Nephrologist and Module Lead (HD Vascular Access).
• Dr Saeed Ahmed: Consultant Interventional Nephrologist and Module Lead (Renal Biopsy and Peritoneal Dialysis).
• Dr Sarah McCloskey: Consultant Nephrologist and Simulation Lead.
• Dr Shalabh Srivastava: Degree Programme Director.
• Unique Approaches:
• Simulation-based learning:
Provides a safe and controlled environment to practice interventional procedures.
• Hands-on training: Enables students to acquire practical skills under direct supervision.
• Multidisciplinary faculty: Offers expertise from experienced clinicians and academics.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths:
• Consultant Interventional Nephrologist.
• Research Nephrologist.
• Clinical Teacher in Nephrology.
• Other specialties, including Acute Medicine, Intensive Care Medicine, and Accident and Emergency, seeking advanced practical skills.
• Career Development Support:
• Opportunities for traineeships and fellowships in Interventional Nephrology.
• Guidance on further studies and research opportunities.
• Career advice and mentoring services.
• Employment Prospects:
• Interventional nephrology skills are highly sought-after by hospitals and healthcare institutions.
• Completion of this program significantly strengthens career prospects for aspiring interventional nephrologists.

Other:

• Facilities:
• Dedicated fluoroscopy suite and procedure room.
• 52 weeks, 5/7 day service.
• Research Opportunities:
• Potential to engage in research projects related to interventional nephrology.
• Opportunity to contribute to the development of a master's course in Interventional Nephrology.
• Overseas Study Opportunities:
• Benefits:
• Develop expertise in a rapidly-growing field within nephrology.
• Enhance professional development and career opportunities.
• Gain valuable clinical experience under expert supervision.