This module on the B.Sc. in Clinical measurement is designed for those taking Respiratory Physiology as a major and minor subject for awarding of their level eight qualification. The aim of this module is to increase the conceptual and applied understanding of the role of the Clinical Physiologist in Respiratory and Sleep Diagnostics. It also aims to further develop those skills required to perform clinical measurements in the field of Clinical Respiratory physiology to provide diagnostic information. Students should become knowledgeable in relation to advanced practice elements of this field of clinical investigations and have the ability to integrate relevant auxiliary clinical information to inform their practice. This module consists of both taught material and a 12 week placement in an appropriate Clinical Respiratory & Sleep Diagnostics Department. On completion of this module a student should have developed a conceptual and applied understanding of the role of the acquisition of Respiratory measurements in the evaluation of a patient’s condition. A student should acquire the necessary skills to enable them to work in a Respiratory laboratory environment.
Routine Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs): Spirometry, Lung volumes by plethysmography (or alternative to method learned in year 3), Diffusing capacity, Bronchodilator response, Baseline oxygen saturation.
Clinical evaluation and assessment of patients suspected of Respiratory disorders. History taking. Lung function appropriate to the diagnosis of neuromuscular disease.
Exercise physiology tests including: 6 Minute walk tests and Full Cardiopulmonary exercise testing. Bronchial provocation testing: Indirect and Direct challenge methods.
Metabolism and respiration: Indirect Calorimetry Respiratory Mechanics: Forced Oscillation Technique (Impulse Oscillometry) Sleep diagnostics: Clinical evaluations and assessment of patients with suspected sleep disorders. Polysomnography (Role of EEG, methods, technical considerations, interpretation of results) Polygraphy (Limited sleep studies), overnight oximetry, NIV methods. Innovative home sleep diagnostic testing. Sleep Therapy.
Detailed Technical evaluation of the technologies and consumables used in advanced lung function and Sleep disorders testing. Calibration and quality assurance procedures: PFT equipment; Sensors and analysers, calibration gases, test gases, measurement algorithms, and reference values. CPET equipment; metabolic cart, calibration gases, ergometry, exercise ECG, pulse oximetry, BP, the importance of Biocalibration Bronchial provocation systems and Nebulisers (Calibration and quality control of medication delivery devices)
This module includes Specialist Lectures on Respiratory and Sleep disorders and the treatment of Sleep Disorders. Topics covered include Clinical exercise/Metabolic tests; Bronchial provocation testing; Respiratory mechanics; use of radiology and lung function in the diagnosis of respiratory disorders.
Lectures and self directed learning.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Formal Examination | 100 |