Program Overview
This credit-bearing, clinically focused course trains healthcare practitioners to conduct comprehensive assessments of patients' health and social care needs. Through hands-on practice, students learn the skills to take patient histories, perform physical exams, identify clinical red flags, and communicate effectively with colleagues. The course meets the requirements for Level 6 study and requires the presence of a practice supervisor.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
This clinically focused, credit-bearing course, which is offered at both our West London and Reading campuses, provides healthcare practitioners with the advanced knowledge and skills required to conduct a systematic assessment of patients’ complex health and social care needs.
Objectives:
- To equip students with the skills to conduct a patient consultation, including taking a patient history, performing a physical examination, gathering clinical data, and accurately recording findings, guided by a consultation model.
- To enable students to identify negative and positive findings, respond to clinical 'red flags' appropriately, and how to communicate clearly with professional colleagues.
Program Description:
- The course requires evidence of study at Level 6 (Degree Level).
- Students should have a practice supervisor in place throughout the module. The practice supervisor should be an advanced clinical practitioner or doctor who can observe and support you in undertaking history-taking and physical assessment skills in a suitable clinical environment.
Assessment:
- Each of the assessment elements must be passed.
- OSCE pass/fail
- Case study 100%
Teaching:
- The course is taught on day release.
- Study days are from 9am to 5pm.
- Students must attend all six study days.
- The course will focus on:
- Using a consultation model to guide the process of taking a patient history, including the patient profile, chief complaint, history of present illness, past medical history, family medical history, social history and review of systems.
- Demonstrating a systematic approach using skills of inspection, palpation, auscultation and percussion will be practised, examining each of the body systems.
- Conducting a systematic head-to-toe physical examination of all body systems, including skin, head and neck, eyes, ears, nose and throat, neurological, cardiovascular, respiratory, abdominal, lymphatic, and musculoskeletal systems.
- Recording clinical findings in a structured format, including the use of the SOAP note.
- Integrating an understanding of normal anatomy and physiology within the assessment of the adult patient, recognising key variations.
- Communicating with professional colleagues, including presenting a case verbally and in written documentation.
University of West London
Overview:
University of West London (UWL) is a modern university located in West London, known for its focus on career-oriented education. It boasts strong rankings in student experience and teaching quality, placing it among the top 30% of universities in the UK.
Services Offered:
UWL offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic Programs:
Undergraduate, postgraduate, degree apprenticeships, Continuing Professional Development (CPD) courses, Foundation Year, and research degrees.Student Life:
Accommodation, sports and recreation, faith support, student stories, and a Students' Union.Campus and Sites:
Multiple campuses in Berkshire, Brentford, and Ealing, with a shuttle bus service connecting them.International Support:
Services for international students, including visa and immigration assistance, English language requirements, and scholarships.Business Services:
Careers events, FlightPad, Fresh Minds for Business, Knowledge Exchange, recruitment opportunities, degree apprenticeships, venue hire, professional development courses, and the Westmont Enterprise Hub.Research:
The Graduate School, Research Centres and Groups, Early Career Researcher Network, research impact, and research degrees.Support for Students:
New student support, returning student support, general student support, semester and term dates, policies and regulations, online learning tools, feedback mechanisms, studying off campus, library services, results and graduation, Student Portal, and student handbook.Student Life and Campus Experience:
UWL provides a vibrant and engaging campus experience for its students. They can participate in a variety of student events, join societies and clubs, and access a range of sports facilities. The university also offers partnerships with local accommodation providers, ensuring safe and affordable housing options for students.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Career Focus:
UWL emphasizes career-oriented education, equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed for successful careers.High Rankings:
The university consistently ranks highly in student experience and teaching quality, reflecting its commitment to providing a positive and effective learning environment.Diverse Programs:
UWL offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, catering to diverse interests and career aspirations.Vibrant Campus Life:
Students can enjoy a dynamic campus experience with numerous events, societies, clubs, and sports facilities.Strong Support System:
UWL provides comprehensive support services for students, including academic guidance, career counseling, and personal well-being resources.Academic Programs:
UWL offers a diverse range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate:
Degrees in STEM, healthcare, business, hospitality, social sciences, law, policing, and the arts.Postgraduate:
Master's degrees and research-led teaching in various fields.Research Degrees:
PhD and Professional Doctorate opportunities.Other:
UWL is committed to sustainability and has achieved the EcoCampus Platinum award for its environmental management system. The university also holds a Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) Silver award and an Athena Swan Bronze award, demonstrating its commitment to excellence in teaching and gender equality.
