Cost
Delivery method
Length of module
It runs over approximately 12 weeks
Estimated hours of study
200 hours
Entry requirements
Learners who work directly with People Affected by Cancer (PABC)
Academic credits and level
20 credits at level 6 or 7
Course availability
Apply nowCourse summary
The Principles of Acute Oncology module is designed for all healthcare professionals who look after acute oncology patients and it is aligned with the Acute Oncology Knowledge and Skills Framework (UKONS 2018) as well as the RCN/UKONS/HEE (2022) Career Pathway and Education Framework and the four pillars of Advanced Clinical Practice (HEE, 2017). The Acute Oncology patient pathways span primary, urgent, and acute care settings and with this perspective in mind, we explore acute events related to treatment (such as toxicity) as well as those arising from cancer itself (such as an obstruction or compression). We also explore the impact of conditions related to Malignancy of Unknown Origin.
This module examines common pathways and protocols when applied to practice. This module also challenges students to critically explore their role as oncology health care professionals as well as the impact they can have on the care of Acute Oncology patients and their families. Within this, we consider complexity as well as leadership, ethics, and the professional dimensions of acute oncology practice.
This module is suitable for Nursing and AHP who work with oncology patients who are receiving treatment as well as those who are working towards or are currently in a specialist Acute Oncology role.
We implement a variety of methods in this blended module, and they include an overview of case studies, group working, online activities, and face-to-face simulated Acute Oncology scenarios in a simulation laboratory.
I’m more confident when I’m looking after patients because now I understand how cancer and its treatment can lead to the patient becoming acutely ill. The module team were very supportive and always there for advice.
This module is in association with:
Entry Requirements
Please view the Admissions Policy before applying.
Key topics
Core module content:
- Exploration of the Acute Oncology Patient Pathway and routes of entry.
- Critical review of the Acute Oncology Service – Identifying roles and responsibilities.
- Acute Oncology associated Policy, Protocols and Guidelines.
- Introduction to systematic assessment and differential diagnosis and the ABCDE assessment in an emergency.
- Exploration of:
- Core treatment related emergencies (including Sepsis and AKI)
- Core cancer related emergencies (including MSCC and Malignancy of Unknown Primary MUO)
- Decision-making, communication and leading in acute oncology.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the module at Level 6 you should be able to demonstrate achievement of the following learning outcomes:
- Illustrate how cancer and cancer treatment can lead to a patient becoming acutely unwell and using the evidence base, identify the common oncological emergencies
- Justify the strategies used in assessment of this patient group and examine the principles of the emergency management of acute oncological events
- Identify acute oncology patient pathways and interpret the relevant evidence, policy, and protocols into clinical practice
- Determine and evaluate the dimensions of professional role development, incorporating communication and leadership skills in acute oncology and its impact on the care of acute oncology patients
On successful completion of the module at Level 7 you should be able to demonstrate achievement of the following learning outcomes:
- Critically examine how cancer and cancer treatment can lead to a patient becoming acutely unwell and synthesise the evidence base of the common oncological emergencies
- Justify the strategies used in assessment of this patient group and determine the emergency management of complex acute oncological events
- Identify acute oncology patient pathways and propose how the key policies, guidelines, and protocols influence the delivery of complex clinical care
- Synthesise the dimensions of professional role development in acute oncology and analyse its impact in both the direct care of acute oncology patients and in the wider context of the service
Dates
On-line live interactive sessions on: 9, 16 January and 13 February 2025
Face to face visit to a Simulation Lab, Chelsea on: 6 February 2025 TBC
Submission date: Poster with Annotations 18 March 2025
Assessment
- Level 6: Poster and Annotated Bibliography
- Level 7: Poster and Annotated Bibliography
Student support
Tutorials with the module leader or personal tutor are available if students require additional help with the planning and writing of their assignments. Email and telephone support are also available from the module leader/personal tutor.
The Royal Marsden School uses an online environment called Moodle which students must access during their studies to support and enhance our courses. The site provides resources and communication tools. All students will be provided with a username and password to access module specific sections as well as general learning support such as study skills and library resources. Students also have access to the David Adams Library and Electronic Resource Centre.
To get the best from the live video-conferencing sessions and enable you to participate fully you should have access to a computer or laptop with a camera and microphone. If you have any concerns or need help, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Related pathways
This stand-alone module also forms part of these pathways: