Diving Accidents – EMM715

This module will equip students with the knowledge and practical skills to assess, diagnose and appropriately manage a diver who has sustained an injury

CPD for healthcare professionals

Key features

In this module students will learn about the assessment and treatment of injured divers. The student will develop an in depth understanding of illnesses seen in divers and will develop the clinical skills required to assess a diver, including history taking and examination.

Using case discussions and high-fidelity simulation, students will become familiar with the management of diving injuries and the operation of a hyperbaric chamber.

In the design of this module, the University has teamed up with world leading experts in diving medicine from the Diving Diseases Research Centre (DDRC) from where the module will be delivered.

Diving Diseases Research Centre (DDRC) Healthcare

Group of divers holding a rope underwater.

Module code

EMM715

Credits

20

FHEQ Level

Level 7 – masters degree

Location

Blended learning approach with face to face delivery at Plymouth

Module details

This module is suitable for any healthcare professional looking to gain the knowledge and skills required for working within a commercial or recreational dive setting.

Learning outcomes

To develop a critical understanding of diving accidents; identifying contributing factors and demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the systems which can be used to reduce risk.
To demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of injuries which may occur as a result of a change of pressure, specifically decompression illness and barotrauma, and develop a systematic approach to diagnosis.
Display a practical understanding of the complexities involved in the evacuation of a diver casualty, including first aid/ pre-hospital care management, multidisciplinary communication and logistical considerations.
Critically examine the principles of the treatment of dive accidents including recompression/ hyperbaric oxygen provision.

Summary of module content

Learn to assess a diver, including remote assessment, and formulate a differential diagnosis considering their medical and diving history.
Synthesise a treatment plan, using supporting industry standards such as those outlined in the US Navy Diving Manual, to treat an injured diver.
Recognise the limits of the evidence and appraise new evidence with regards to the treatment of diving accidents, particularly relating to the use of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT).
Develop practical experience in the treatment of diving accidents through case discussions and high fidelity clinical scenarios.
Reflect on personal performance and the performance of others in the multidisciplinary team in clinical scenarios.

This module is taught through a mixture of practical sessions, lectures and interactive seminars. This is supplemented through self-directed learning, supported tutorials and completion of practical and written exams.

Admissions information

Additional information and documentation required for the application process.

Application forms.
Change of name forms.
Pre-course information.
Downloadable guides.
Student card.

Visit Professional Development Unit (PDU) admissions for full details.

Admissions information Additional information and documentation required for the application process.Access to application forms, download guides and confirmation information. Visit our admissions homepage.

Module dates

It is run across two week blocks in the spring/summer terms, between February and March, with exams at the end of April. The first block is a short introduction to the theory of the module and the second block is taught face to-face at DDRC on the Plymouth Science Park.

Occasionally delivery dates might be subject to change – always check with the module lead or Professional Development Unit. 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.

Entry requirements

Completion of the teaching on ‘EMM713 Fundamentals of Diving Practice’ will be expected of all applicants. You will normally be a healthcare professional with a first degree or a related academic degree. BSc (Hons) at 2:1 or above, or European first cycle equivalent. Clinicians who achieved a lower grade from their first degree or without a degree but with appropriate experience may still be eligible to apply.

Overseas students require IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent required.