This module will provide an overview of the patho-physiology and impact of the most common long term conditions identified either through the Quality and Outcomes Framework or other government initiatives. It will enable health care assistants to demonstrate underpinning knowledge and skills to support patients and registered professional staff in their own work settings e.g. general practice, in the community. This module will enhance clinical skills in monitoring long term conditions. There will be a strong emphasis on disease prevention and the promotion of self care within these patient groups.

The long term conditions include:

- Introduction to Long Term Conditions
- Diabetes mellitus
- Cardiovascular Disease including: Coronary Heart Disease - Hypertension, Heart Failure,
Atrial Fibrillation, Stroke and Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIA)
- Respiratory diseases - Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), asthma
- Obesity
- An awareness of other long term conditions.

Summative assessment:
A portfolio of evidence to reflect achievement of learning outcomes 1, 2 and 4 - 2000 word limit.

A competency booklet and workbook to address learning outcome 3 - Pass/fail

The portfolio will include:
a case study referenced to literature to reflect the achievement of learning outcomes 1, 2 and 4 will include as an appendix, a patient friendly leaflet max A4 to explain one or more long term conditions discussed in the case study to reflect the achievement of learning outcome 3.

Formative Assessment:
Pre-course self assessment about long term conditions self-marked marked in classroom setting to indicate knowledge at the start of the course. Repeated at the end of the course to show progression and check learning. Tutorial and group work.

Both elements of assessment must be passed.

Library facilities
Internet access
Access to NHS library
Blackboard
Mentor in clinical practice
Laptop and projector

NVQ Level 2 Care or The role of the health care assistant in the community Level 0 module from Staffordshire University or demonstrate an understanding of studying at an academic level with experience of working in a health or social care setting.

Students must be working in a primary health care setting e.g. general practice, out of hours or within a community health team or a social care setting e.g. nursing home

Applicants will need the support of their employer and to identify a named mentor/assessor who is a registered health care professional with a recognised governing body e.g. NMC.

Contact Hours: (40)
31 hours Interactive Lectures
6 hours Group discussion
3 hours Question and answer sessions

Independent Study Hours: (110)
80 hours Clinical Practice developing and demonstrating skills
30 hours Assessment preparation

Patient/carers involvement will be included through the course

Carnier, J. (2010) Managing Long Term Conditions in Primary Care. London. Routledge.
Lloyd, C. & Heller, T. (2012) Long Term Conditions Challenges in health and social care.
Margereson, C. & Trenoweth, S. (2010) Developing Holistic Care for Long Term Conditions. London. Routledge.
Nicol, J (2011) Nursing Adults with Long Term Conditions. Exeter Learning matters.