Clinical decision making and diagnostic reasoning for Advanced Practice (masters level) (APP771)

Develop your complex decision making skills
CPD for healthcare professionals
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Key features

Entry on to this 20 credit masters-level module must follow on from the successful completion of module APP770 – Advanced assessment for clinical practice or equivalent.
The practitioner will develop a cognitive approach to apply theories and clinical decision making to patients seen in practice. The aim will be to underpin this approach with high-level judgements in complex decision across a broad and generic range of presentations, incorporating comprehensive health assessments and appropriate, well-proportioned and a safe management plans. This will include exploration of various investigations and their interpretations, pharmacology therapeutics, conservative advice and safety netting.  
There is a focus on interdisciplinary learning to develop the skills needed to make safe, sound clinical decisions within a range of clinical settings, when consulting with patients and clients with diverse health needs across all healthcare settings.
At the end of the module, the learner will be able to complete a systematic and structured consultation including history taking, physical examinations and developing an appropriate and reasoned management plan, relating findings to the ultimate goal of clinical decision making.  
Module code

APP771


Credits

20


FHEQ level

Level 7 – masters degree


Location

Blended learning approach with face to face delivery in Plymouth

Heart

Course details

The successful achievement of the learning outcomes of this module will enable you to:
  • critically examine the concept of managing clinical complexity demonstrating extensive critical knowledge and understanding to inform the decision making process
  • obtain, analyse and interpret the patient history, presenting symptoms, physical findings and diagnostic information to develop appropriate differential diagnosis justifying the findings in relation to relevant anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology
  • demonstrate critical thinking and diagnostic reasoning skills in decision making; interpreting investigations to determine a diagnosis
  • promote and use an evidence-based approach to patient management that critically evaluates and applies research and guidance negotiating complex pathways that are required when integrating critical thought and ethical considerations relevant to management of patient/client needs
  • evaluate the context of risk and development of quality, patient/client safety and clinical governance agenda critically reflecting upon student’s individual development.
Module dates
Delivery 1
18 September, 2, 14, 28 October, 11, 25 November, 9 December 2024, 13 January and 24, 25 February 2025.
Delivery 2
6, 20 January, 3, 17 February, 3, 17, 31 March, 28 April and 9, 10 June 2025.

(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 – for further information please contact the Professional Development Unit.
Assessment
There are two parts to the assessment for this module:
  1. a written case study
  2. an OSCE.
(Please note that these assessment details are provisional – if you require further information please contact the module lead or the Professional Development Unit).
This module can be studied as a standalone module or towards the following programmes:
Please contact the Professional Development Unit for further information.
NHS England Centre for Advancing Practice Workplace Supervision for Advanced Clinical Practice 
 

Applying for this module

Applicants to APP771 must complete a joint module application form. 
Please ensure that the form is completed in full. 
Failure to fully complete the form will result in your application being delayed which could affect your place on the module. 
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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.

Our students say...

The combination of expert input into the clinical component and the opportunity to focus on a wide range of systems has been invaluable.

Entry requirements

To be considered for a place on this module you must:
  • be a registered health and social care practitioner or health and social care worker
  • ideally be in possession of previous study at degree level
  • have successfully passed APP710  (Advanced Assessment in Clinical Practice) or equivalent.
Individuals without a degree may be eligible to apply providing they have appropriate practice-related experience relevant to the programme. 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