PMMCP7-Introduction to neurology

Module Provider: Pharmacy
Number of credits: 5 [2.5 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring / Summer module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites: Pre-requisites: Registered as a pharmacist with GPhC or PSNI and working at an approved pharmacy practice site
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2019/0

Email: a.kamboh@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module focuses on the principles of medicines optimisation in neurology.  Topics will include Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, dementia and stroke.

The module can be studied stand-alone or students can transfer onto the Joint Programmes Board Postgraduate Diploma in Foundation Pharmacy Practice or the MSc in Advancing Healthcare Practice.  Practitioners will be supported to reflect on their experiences by developing a professional portfolio of their learning which is mapped to the Royal Pharmaceutical Society Foundation Pharmacy Framework.  Practitioners who wish to develop their knowledge in the therapeutic area via a similar module structure are able to complete further study through modules PMMDP1, PMMDP2 and/or PMMDP3.

Aims:

To develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours required to effectively manage patients with neurological disease.  Students will combine academic learning with workplace-based learning and self-directed study to enable them to apply their knowledge to real patient cases.

Assessable learning outcomes:

Knowledge:

1. Discuss the aetiology, risk factors and preventative factors for the disease state


2. Describe the commonly used medicines, their place in therapy and the treatment targets for the disease state


3. Apply pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic principles to the design of appropriate treatment regimens for the medicines used in the disease state


4. Describe the common adverse drug reactions, drug interactions and patient interactions that may affect the choice of treatment regimen for the disease state


5. Describe the role of non-medicine treatment options for the disease state


6. Identify mechanisms to improve patient concordance

Skills

1. Demonstrate the core skills of clinical decision making


2. Apply evidence-based medicine (EBM) to individualise patient care, referring to relevant guidelines and, where necessary, primary literature


3. Critically review the management and monitoring of patients with the disease state


4. Consult effectively with patients, carers and the multidisciplinary healthcare team, respecting diversity and confidentiality

Behaviours

1. Continually advance own knowledge, skills and behaviours through continuing professional development and life-long learning

Additional outcomes:

Outline content:

This module will focus on supporting practitioners to apply a range of clinical and scientific knowledge to solve common, medication-related, problems.  Therapeutics and evidence-based medicine topics will focus on Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, dementia and stroke.  Emphasis will also be placed on minimising the risk associated with medication use.

Global context:

This module is focused on the UK healthcare system.  Whilst it is mapped to the Royal Pharmaceutical Society’s Foundation Pharmacy Framework, this framework is also linked to the International Global Competency Framework and practitioners who wish to work overseas can consider how their developing knowledge, skills and behaviours can be mapped to both frameworks.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

This module will use a range of teaching and learning methods.  The University teaching is based around one face-to-face workshop using a mixture of presentations and problem-based/case-based learning facilitated by the programme team, specialist pharmacists and other healthcare professionals.  The workshops are underpinned by directed learning via Blackboard and self-directed learning, where practitioners are required to use a range of sources to gain information to support the development of their knowledge and skills.

Students are encouraged to complement their study through workplace-based learning where practitioners will undertake activities to develop their knowledge, skills and behaviours.  This will be guided by the professional portfolio of learning.

This module is studied over two to six months, and there may be more than one cohort per year, therefore the distinction of hours by term is not possible.  The hours shown for autumn term below are spread over the entire module.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

1. Professional portfolio of learning
   
   
   
   • Portfolio contents review
   
   
   
   


2. Written case study
   
   
   
   • Using the set template, approximately 2,000 words in length
   
   
   
   

Formative assessment methods:

1. Workplace-based assessments during experiential learning


2. Group discussion of case-based learning


3. Optional formative feedback on draft written case study

Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Assessment requirements for a pass:

1. The written case study must be passed at 50% with all essential criteria met


2. The professional portfolio of learning must be passed at 50% and contain all mandatory content

Reassessment arrangements:

Reassessment will usually be arranged within a three-month period.  Where required, and determined to be achievable, it will be arranged promptly so as not to delay any further study.  Individualised timings may be required depending on the specific requirements for reassessment.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1. Printing and binding Students can submit most of their portfolio online.  Currently library costs for printing are 5p a sheet for black and white. A simple ring binder can be purchased from stationers for around £3.

Last updated: 29 October 2019