PGCert Interventional Radiology

Why study at Buckinghamshire New University?

Teachers at BNU consist of expert staff with a combination of academic knowledge and industry experience. You’ll be able to acquire specialist knowledge in Interventional Radiology, with the opportunity to go on a work placement. 

Benefit from access to expert faculty, industry insights, and hands-on learning opportunities in a state-of-the-art educational environment. We have established strong connections with leading healthcare providers and industry specialists. 

We offer access to specialised facilities, including advanced imaging equipment and simulation labs. Our learning programmes are flexible and practice-based, designed specifically for working professionals. 

What facilities can I use?

Gain access to advanced imaging equipment in interventional radiology, including cardiac catherisation, fluoroscopy, ultrasound, CT, MRI and RNI, as well as simulation labs for practical, hands-on learning. You will also utilise Electronic Patient Records (EPR) and other related radiology software systems.

Separate modules may appeal to other specialisms and disciplines, i.e. endoscopy, emergency nurse practitioners, dental nursing, stroke ACPs, operating department practitioners and physiotherapists.

Access to online learning platforms and support services such as "Ask a Librarian" and laptop loan schemes.

What will I study? 

You will be able to discuss and negotiate with the course team any subjects you feel unsure about and delve deeper into these topics.

We will study effective mentoring and coaching, supporting and promoting a healthy educational culture in the Interventional Radiology (IR) environment, important for working alongside more junior roles. Resilience and self-care: building resilience, soft skills, and strategies for welfare management of both self and others. Examples of leadership develop your leadership skills for individuals, teams, and systems, including boosting your impact on the service user experience and interprofessional teamwork.

Gain conflict resolution methods for resolving conflicts and minimising mistakes, with a focus on reflection and debriefing including WHO processes and NHS Patient Safety Incident Response Frameworks. We will study duty of care, candour, and procedures in interventional radiology, covering both major (angioplasty, embolization) and minor procedures (biopsies, drains, central line insertion).

Gain understanding of vascular and non-vascular anatomy and pathology, as well as image interpretation across various imaging modalities (CT, MRI, Ultrasound, and more). Study the application of IRMER and IRR17 regulations, with emphasis on radiation safety in clinical procedures. Care considerations from pre-procedural to post-procedural stages, including recovery and handling medical emergencies.

Familiarisation with interventional radiology equipment, CRIS, PACS, EPR systems, and the preparation for procedures, as well as Infection control practices, sterile techniques, and management of surgical equipment. Study sedation and incident management: Understanding sedation protocols, managing reportable incidents, and using frameworks like PSIRF and After-Action Reviews (AAR).

How will I be taught and assessed?

A blend of online and in-person teaching methods, including lectures, practical workshops, and case-based learning. You benefit from flexible learning designed for working professionals. Workshops include contributions from clinical experts and multidisciplinary team interactions.

A range of assessments will also be used to test your understanding of the subject matter:

• Portfolio of evidence on practical experience gained in interventional radiology, procedures, patient care, and emergency management.
• Case studies on healthcare policies, ionising radiation safety, legislation and clinical applications, and use of contrast agents.