Overview
The United Kingdom NHS Cervical Screening Programme (NHSCSP) was developed in 1988 to provide systematic screening of women for pre cancerous changes in the cervix. A complex multi-faceted programme involving several elements of the health care service it continues to evolve across all its aspects in response to various drivers including research, new technology and clinical governance issues. It is well recognised that the main requirement for its success relies on women attending regularly to have their cervical sample taken. This vital element means that clinicians, and in particular nurses who take the vast majority of samples, are absolutely central to the continued success of the programme. Implicit within the quality guidelines for the NHSCSP is the requirement for all sample takers to be properly trained to undertake the skills required for this sensitive role.
This module will draw upon the theoretical aspects relative to programme screening for disease in well women but specifically it will empower clinicians with the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to provide a holistic cervical screening service for their population of women.
Content and Modules
What will I study?
The screening programme
Historical perspective
Aim of screening programme and progress of programme
Justification for screening for disease
Epidemiology, pathogenesis and risks of cervical cancer
Limitations of screening
National & local organisation of programme
Eligibility for screening including age/intervals/opting out/exclusions
Quality standards
Professional issues
Role of health care professionals
Clinical supervision
Critical appraisal
Consultation and communication issues- health belief
Consent –including women from ethnic minorities and those with learning difficulties
Accountability, legal and ethical issues in practice
Infection control, health and safety issues in practice
Documentation
Practice protocols and audit
Resources- space/equipment/human/time
Clinical issues
Anatomy & physiology
Cervical sampling technique- Practical session
Assessment of the cervix
Problem sampling
Abnormal results & follow up
Laboratory perspective
Colposcopy & treatment
Liquid base cytology/ conventional smear sampling
Current research
How will I be assessed?
There are 2 parts to the summative assessment:
Part 1: Practice
For the practice part students are required to produce a portfolio of evidence within a given timescale.
The portfolio will include:
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27 records of cervical screening consultations
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Reflective accounts of placements
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An audit of practice
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A final clinical assessment to be undertaken between weeks 20 and 24.
Practice assessment criteria are aimed at ensuring safe practice and a satisfactory level of competence. The practice element is therefore assessed as achieved/not achieved.
NB: A clinical record book is supplied containing all necessary templates for recording clinical data identified above.
Part 2: Theory
Students are required to critically analyse 2 case studies from practice. Analysis should relate to the learning outcomes for the module. (Word Limit 2500)
Both theory and practice parts must be passed for the credits to be awarded. The module mark will be based on the theory section.
Submission dates: Theory: End of the semester in which the module is taught.
Practice: Week 24 (Longer time is allocated for all practice elements to be achieved)
If you are already registered on a diploma or degree programme it is advisable to inform your course leader that you will be undertaking this module. This will enable your course leader to undertake the vital task of tracking your academic journey.
Further Information
Site of attendance: UCS Ipswich
Dates of attendance:
11/09/12
25/09/12
09/10/12
23/10/12
13/11/12
27/11/12
Should you require any further information about this module please contact the Module Leader:
Elaine Vincent
T: 01473 338539
E: e.vincentucs.ac.uk|