This module examines the ways in which the scope of palliative care can be extended to improve the quality of life and death of people with dementia and other non-malignant diseases. The underpinning philosophy of this module will be based on the principle of person-centred care; communication and reframing what is traditionally labelled as ‘difficult behaviours’ to expressions of needs, desire and distress.

By undertaking this module, participants will have the opportunity to explore areas related to the challenges of palliative care provision for non-malignant conditions such as cardiorespiratory, renal, liver, and neurodegenerative conditions using a palliative care approach will be explored.

Available as a standalone module: Yes

Attendance (Please note, this is subject to change for future intakes)

Dates: For attendance information, please see the top of this page. Please note, if the module is full or closed for the intake(s) this academic year, dates may not appear. 

Venue: LSBU Havering (Study Day 1) | MS Teams (Study Day 2&3) | Saint Francis Hospice (Study Day 4)

Typical intake(s): Semester 2

Career Benefits

This module provides students with comprehensive knowledge and skills required to understand the challenges and complexities of providing high quality end of life care for people with dementia and other non-malignant conditions. Possessing a broad and deep understanding of the theory and skills required to contribute to the delivery and management of care for people with advanced non-malignant conditions, students will be well positioned to assume clinical roles in a variety of clinical settings.

Assessment

• 3000 word essay

Assessment/submission date: See attendance dates

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and Understanding: 

• Review and discuss the pathophysiology pertinent to common advanced non-malignant conditions and its impact on patient care.

Intellectual skills:

• Critique the knowledge and evidence base which underpins the principles of palliative care, and evaluate their impact on improving quality of life and death amongst patients with advanced non-malignant conditions.
• Analyse the current national policies and guidelines relevant to dementia and other non-malignant conditions, and evaluate their effectiveness to improve practice and service development.

Practical Skills:

• Demonstrate person-centred care tailored to meet the needs of people with advanced non-malignant diseases.

Transferable skills:

• Contribute to the multi-disciplinary team’s decision-making in planning, implementing and evaluating care provided to people with advance non-malignant conditions within a contemporary palliative care context.