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Module Specifications

Archived Version 2018 - 2019

Module Title
Module Code
School

Online Module Resources

NFQ level 9 Credit Rating 10
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Description

This module enables professionals to develop enhanced knowledge and practical skills to improve the management of people with chronic skin disorders. It is suitable for practitioners with a special interest in dermatology who want to consolidate their professional competencies and diagnostic skills. It will examine the best available evidence to support treatment of a variety of commonly occurring chronic dermatological conditions including acne, eczema and psoriasis, hair and nail disorders. The module focuses on managing the delivery of appropriate dermatology care in primary and secondary care settings and promoting health and self help for patients with skin conditions.

Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of aetiology, histopathology and clinical features of chronic skin conditions.
2. Conduct a comprehensive patient assessment to determine therapeutic interventions warranted.
3. Critically examine relevant epidemiology, screening, prevalence and risk factors for chronic skin conditions.
4. Critically analyse the evidence base for contemporary treatment regimes for chronic skin conditions.
5. Critically appraise the psychological impact of chronic skin conditions including quality of life and symptom management considerations.
6. Critically evaluate the role of evidence-based practice, clinical audit, research and quality improvement initiatives to inform clinical decision-making.



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Lecture24Face to face engagement
Online activity16Synchronous and asynchronous engagement with module tasks
Independent Study210Clinical supervision in practice, Student motivated activities including: Skill acquisition, reflective practice, observation of colleagues practice, Opportunistic learning activities within the workplace.
Lecture24Face to face contact
Total Workload: 274

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

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Key areas
• Epidemiology, prevalence and risk factors of chronic skin conditions. • Aetiology, histopathology of common skin conditions. • Holistic patient assessment/examination incorporating subjective and objective data, recognised tools and grading systems/protocols. • Therapeutic management of commonly presenting skin conditions. • Treatment regimes and therapies including topical immune-suppressants, light therapy and oral antibiotics. • Psychological support for people with chronic skin conditions. • Evidence-informed care, clinical guidelines/protocols, research and audit. • Contemporary medico-legal issues / clinical Governance. • Service provision - developing/managing dermatological services.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment% Examination Weight%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
Unavailable
Indicative Reading List

  • Bobonich M & Nolan M: 2015, Dermatology for Advanced Practice Clinicians., Lippincott Williams and Wilkins., Philadelphia.,
  • Bickley, L.: 2016, Bates' guide to physical examination and history-taking, 12th Edition, Wolters Kluwer., Philadelphia, 978-149635029
  • Doughlas G, Nicol F and Robertson C (eds): 2014, Macleod’s Clinical Examination., 13th Edition, Churchill Livingstone Elsevier., Edinburgh,
  • Jarvis C: 2015, Physical Examination and Health Assessment, 7th Edition, Elsevier, Missouri,
  • Moore T and Cunningham S (Eds.): 2017, Clinical Skills for Nursing Practice, Routledge., Oxford,
  • McCance, K. & Huether, S.: 2014, Pathophysiology: The biologic basis for disease in adults and children, 7th Edition, Elsevier Mosby., St.Louis,
Other Resources

None
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