Latest Module Specifications
Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026
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Description The Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy module equips MSc Physiotherapy students with in-depth knowledge and clinical expertise in managing cardiorespiratory conditions. Covering anatomy and physiology of the pulmonary and cardiovascular systems and conditions like COPD, asthma, heart failure, and acute respiratory disorders, it emphasizes physiological mechanisms, evidence-based interventions, and clinical reasoning. Students will develop assessment and treatment skills across the lifespan, integrating theory with practical application. Learning is reinforced through clinical placements in diverse healthcare settings, fostering multidisciplinary collaboration and patient-centered care. The module focuses on safe, holistic management, ensuring students can deliver effective, evidence-based physiotherapy interventions tailored to individual patients needs. The module aligns with the CORU Standards of Proficiency for Physiotherapists and upholds the CORU Code of Professional Conduct and Ethics for Physiotherapists to ensure ethical and high-quality professional practice. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Learning Outcomes 1. On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to: Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the pathophysiology of common cardiorespiratory conditions and their impact on respiratory and cardiovascular function. 2. On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to: Apply clinical assessment techniques, including auscultation, spirometry, and exercise testing, analyse hemodynamic and ventilatory parameters in critically ill patients and the impact of pharmacological interventions on respiratory and cardiac function and exercise capacity. 3. On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to: Apply safe and effect physiotherapy management strategies in critical care, surgical care, and acute respiratory conditions across hospital and community settings. 4. On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to: Implement evidence-based interventions to improve respiratory function and physical capacity, including airway clearance techniques, breathing exercises, non-invasive ventilation and physiotherapy adjuncts, and cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation. 5. On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to: Develop individualized care plans, integrate patient education and self-management strategies, and modify treatment based on patient progress. 6. On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to: Work effectively within the multidisciplinary healthcare team to provide holistic care for cardiorespiratory patients. 7. On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to: Demonstrate an understanding of ethical and professional considerations, including patient autonomy, informed consent, and best practices in care. 8. On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to: Critically appraise current research and apply evidence to clinical decision-making to enhance patient outcomes. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml |
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Indicative Content and Learning Activities
Pathophysiology of Common Cardiorespiratory Conditions Interactive lectures with case-based discussions. Small-group problem-based learning (PBL) sessions on disease progression and patient case studies. Virtual or cadaveric anatomy workshops focused on the cardiopulmonary system. Clinical Assessment & Analysis of Haemodynamic and Ventilatory Parameters Practical workshops on auscultation and spirometry. Case-based scenario discussions using real patient data. Physiotherapy Management in Critical Care & Acute Settings Simulation training with deteriorating patient scenarios. Clinical reasoning exercises using video vignettes. Evidence-Based Interventions for Respiratory & Cardiovascular Function Skills lab sessions for hands-on practice. Literature appraisal workshops to evaluate recent research. Patient video sessions where individuals with chronic respiratory conditions share their experiences. Individualised Care Planning & Patient-Centred Approaches Role-playing scenarios focusing on motivational interviewing and shared decision-making. Development of case-based treatment plans in groups. Digital health and telehealth application workshops. Multidisciplinary Team Working & Holistic Care Interprofessional education (IPE) sessions with nursing students. Simulated MDT case conferences and patient-centred care planning exercises. Simulation-based team training in complex patient care. Ethical & Professional Considerations in Cardiorespiratory Care Ethics debates and reflection exercises on real-world dilemmas. Case study discussions on patient consent and capacity. Research & Evidence-Based Practice in Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy Journal club with facilitated discussions on recent studies. Audit and quality improvement project presentations | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List Books:
Articles: None | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other Resources
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