Clinical decision making in healthcare practice (degree level) (HEAD362)

Use your existing knowledge and experience to develop your clinical reasoning ability
CPD for healthcare professionals
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Key features

This 20 credit degree-level module will enable you to develop your accountability and decision making skills. It will encourage you to draw on your existing knowledge, skills and experiences gained through your work as a registered healthcare professional to build on your systematic and critical thinking skills and further develop your clinical reasoning ability.
This is an opportunity to enhance your existing clinical decision making skills through the application of relevant theories within the context of clinically based discussions. 
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A young male nurse stands in a busy hospital ward. Image courtesy of Getty Images.
Module code

HEAD362

Credits

20

FHEQ level

Level 6 – bachelors degree

Location

Blended learning approach with face to face delivery in Plymouth

Course details

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:
  • critically analyse, evaluate and apply evidence to support the process of clinical decision making
  • demonstrate knowledge and understanding of professional practice underpinning clinical decision making
  • contribute to the promotion of a culture which enhances patient/client safety.
Assessment
The assessment for this module is in the form of a presentation.
(Please note that these assessment details are provisional – if you require further information please contact the module lead or the Professional Development Unit).

Learning outcomes

  • Critically analyse, evaluate and apply evidence to support the process of clinical decision making.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of professional practice underpinning clinical decision making.
  • Contribute to the promotion of a culture which enhances patient/client safety.

Module dates

This module will not run for the 2023 / 2024 academic year.  
Please be aware that all modules run to minimum numbers. In the event that there are low numbers, this module may be rescheduled to an alternative date. Some modules are also subject to maximum numbers.
This module can be studied as a standalone module, as a core module for our BSc (Hons) Professional Development in Nursing or an optional module towards some of our other BSc (Hons) Professional Development pathways. 

Module lead

“This module will support you in developing your clinical decision-making skills. Through clinically focussed discussions, we will explore how clinical decision-making theories, human factors, system 1 and system 2 thinking, as well as ethics and legalities influence the decisions you make in clinical practice. A reflective presentation at the end of the course will allow you to demonstrate your learning and development in your ability to think critically and improve your clinical reasoning. With three taught study days, a tutorial day and then a presentation day, there is plenty of opportunity to explore your own emotional intelligence and situational awareness within the context of clinical decision making. This module is an excellent opportunity to develop and showcase your critical thinking skills within the context of clinical decision making and gain 20 credits within a concise and succinct timeframe.”
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Admissions information 

Additional information and documentation required for the application process.
  • Application forms. 
  • Change of name forms.
  • Pre-course information.
  • Downloadable guides.
  • Student card.
Admissions information Additional information and documentation required for the application process.Access to application forms, download guides and confirmation information. Visit our admissions homepage.

Entry requirements

To be eligible for this module you must be either a registered health and social care professional or a health and social care worker in possession of previous study at level 5 or a foundation degree.
Each student will be considered and advised individually (where required) by the programme team and Professional Development Unit. Please contact the PDU or programme lead if you have any queries regarding your situation. 

Fees and funding

Fees
Funding
Funding for this module may be available through your employing trust. To apply please contact your Trust’s Educational Co-ordinator who will guide you through the application process.
If you work in the private, independent and voluntary sector, please contact your employer who will advise you.
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You can contact the Professional Development Unit with any queries

Prospective student enquiries:
Current student enquiries:
Professional Development Unit, Level 4 Rolle Building, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, PL4 8AA, United Kingdom.
Monday – Thursday 8:30–17:00 and Friday 8:30–16:30.