Stroke Care

Credits: 20 credits at Level 6 and 7.

Why study this subject?

This module enables you to gain knowledge and understanding of the care of an individual who has had a stroke. The role of the health care practitioner in various environments will be explored.

Why study at Buckinghamshire New University?

Led by our experienced and supportive staff, this short course is open to healthcare professionals from any field who work with patients who have experienced a stroke.

You'll be supported to gain a deeper understanding of the risk factors contributing to a stroke, before acute interventions are explored and analysed.

Therapeutic interventions are examined in relation to the management of physical symptoms and provision of best practice. The function of the multi-professional team will also be explored, including specialist roles and accountability in practice.

Decision making will be discussed in relation to the management of the patient’s care including legal and ethical issues, evidence-based practice, use of protocols and resource allocation.

Rehabilitation, education of patients and relatives and follow up and support groups are also considered.

You'll be equipped with strategies that promote awareness of high-quality care, which in-turn will influence patient safety and satisfaction.

You'll be encouraged to explore theory related to all of the above issues. In addition, those attending this module will explore their own practice and critically reflect on how patient satisfaction, compassionate care and team performance can be improved.

Over the 15 weeks, we'll cover areas such as:

• anatomy and physiology of the brain
• stroke demographics, risk factors and primary and secondary prevention
• acute management of stroke including thrombolysis
• recognition of deteriorating patient: signs linked to pathophysiology and intracranial dynamics
• speech and swallowing dysfunction
• nutritional assessment and support
• mobility
• Visual disturbances
• continence care and management
• care of the dying patient
• legal and ethical issues including assessment of competency
• psycho-social needs of patients and families focused on rehabilitation and discharge home
• decision making and leadership skills
• development of team-working and conflict management
• what’s it like to be a patient?’ – practical session simulating patient experience
• current research relating to stroke care and management.

This course is available at degree (Level 6) and master’s (Level 7) level.

After completing this course, you can progress onto our BSc (Hons) Professional Practice and MSc Professional Practice programmes.

When will this course run?

This course runs on Thursdays from 10-5pm.

Taught fully online for 2021-22 Semesters 1 and 2.