The Examination of the Newborn CPD

Program Overview

The Examination of the Newborn CPD module equips healthcare professionals with the skills and knowledge to conduct comprehensive physical examinations of newborns, considering relevant factors and following national standards. Delivered through blended learning, the module includes practical experiences, case-based assessments, and an essay, leading to career advancement opportunities within multiple healthcare settings. Personal tutors and specialist practitioners provide support throughout the program.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Examination of the Newborn CPD module is a professional qualification designed for healthcare professionals working with newborn infants. It aims to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct a comprehensive physical examination of newborns, taking into account relevant antenatal and intrapartum factors. The module emphasizes a holistic approach, incorporating contemporary literature, professional responsibilities, local and national policies, and the current standards of the NIPE Screening Committee, Public Health England.

Outline:

The module covers a wide range of topics related to newborn health and examination, including:

• Cardiovascular and Respiratory Systems: In-depth exploration of these systems in newborns.
• Testes, Eyes, and Hip Stability: Examination techniques and assessment of these areas.
• Embryo and Fetal Development: Focus on critical periods influenced by environmental and maternal factors.
• Influences on Neonatal Health: Exploration of factors across the pregnancy continuum that affect newborn health.
• Communication Skills: Developing effective communication with caregivers, including health promotion and breaking bad news.
• Local and National Guidelines: Application of relevant guidelines for care practices and referral pathways.
• Multidisciplinary Team Collaboration: Effective communication with other healthcare professionals to meet the needs of mothers and babies.

Structure:

The module is delivered through a blended learning approach, combining face-to-face and virtual teaching.

• Virtual Learning: Interactive learning units and remotely delivered tutorials accessed via the Northampton Integrated Learning Environment (NILE).

Course Schedule:

• Start Dates: October and April.
• Duration: 6 months part-time.

Individual Modules:

The module is structured as a single, comprehensive unit covering all aspects of newborn examination.

Assessment:

• Practice Assessment Portfolio: This portfolio requires students to observe and undertake a number of practical systematic examinations of newborn infants within their NHS trust.
It is supervised by a qualified NIPE practitioner and supported by a nominated Practice Assessor. The portfolio serves as evidence of completing the required number of examinations and includes critical reflection on experiences. This assessment is graded as Pass/Fail.
• VIVA Case-Based Assessment: This 30-minute oral examination assesses students' knowledge and application of the module's content through a case-based scenario.
It is graded and contributes 50% to the overall module grade.
• Essay: Students are required to write a 2,500-word essay addressing the module's learning outcomes.
This assessment is graded and contributes 50% to the overall module grade.

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The module utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including seminars, workshops, online learning units, and tutorials.
• Faculty: The module is supported by credible lecturers experienced in the field of NIPE and contemporary midwifery practice.
• Unique Approaches: The module emphasizes practical application through supervised clinical experiences and incorporates a strong focus on communication skills and multidisciplinary team collaboration.

Careers:

The module is designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of healthcare professionals working with newborns. Upon successful completion, participants are eligible to undertake the full systematic examination of the newborn (NIPE) in their clinical practice. This qualification can lead to career advancement opportunities within various healthcare settings, including:

• Midwifery:
• Nursing:
• Health Visiting:
• General Practice:
• Paediatrics:

Other:

• NIPE One-Day Workshop: The University of Northampton offers a one-day CPD workshop specifically for healthcare practitioners already qualified and skilled in the systematic Examination of the Newborn (NIPE).
This workshop provides a review and update of theoretical knowledge and practical application of NIPE skills.
• Personal Tutor:
Each student is assigned a Personal Tutor to provide academic and personal support.
• Learning Technologists: Support is available for navigating the Northampton Integrated Learning Environment (NILE) and utilizing technology-enhanced learning resources.
• Academic Librarian: Guidance is provided on accessing library resources and developing study skills.
• Specialist Practitioners: The module incorporates input from specialist practitioners within the field, such as paediatricians with cardiology expertise.
• Experienced NIPE Practitioners: Students can seek additional support from experienced NIPE practitioners within their NHS Trust.