1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of effective communication and assessment skills in accordance with the potential physical and psychological needs of the service-user
Knowledge and Understanding

2. Apply specific clinical investigations and effectively utilise clinical therapeutic equipment in accordance with the potential physical and psychological needs of the service-user
Application
Problem Solving

3. Interpret and record the information obtained from clinical assessments and investigations
Application
Communication
Problem Solving

4. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of fundamental patient treatment, referral and management plans/pathways in accordance with appropriate evidence-informed guidelines
Knowledge and Understanding
Learning

5. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of practice which is cognisant of the potential hazards and risks associated with emergency and unscheduled care, and which engenders safety for the clinician, colleagues, carers, and service-users
Knowledge and Understanding

This module will introduce you to the underpinnings of paramedic practice, exploring an introduction to the clinical skills that paramedics use on a daily basis.

The module will include subjects such as:
• An exploration of the Professional, Statutory and Regulatory bodies – looking at the role of the College of Paramedics and the Health and Care Professions Council.
• Assessing risk (Conflict resolution, Infection prevention and control, sharps management, personal protective equipment, scene safety)
• Awareness of hazardous materials and the decontamination process.
• The principles of using manual handling techniques and equipment.
• Basic assessment skills of all physiological areas: Cardiovascular, Respiratory, Neurological, Gastrointestinal, Musculoskeletal, Inclusive of both medical and traumatic complaints.
• Communication skills and history taking models (Including past medical history, social history, drug history, family history.)

• The principles of a primary and secondary survey (including an understanding of physiological observations and vital signs)
• Basic and intermediate life support.
• Recognition of the critically-ill patient.
• The principles of collaborative working with other clinicians and services.
• The preparation of equipment to support a senior clinician.
• A brief understanding of how evidence and research implements paramedic practice, as well as an exploration of protocols and guidelines.
• The implementation of patient treatment, management, and referral plans.
• The use of therapeutic equipment and drug administration to manage the physical and psychological needs of the service-user.
• An introduction to how the behaviour of an individual can affect paramedic practice.
• The importance of documentation.
• Team working strategies.
• Formulating a working diagnosis from physiological observations and clinical examination.
• Develop an understanding of the theory behind assessments, clinical decision-making, and clinical reasoning.
• The scope of paramedic practice.


Throughout each of our sessions we will be exploring how assessments and clinical skills need to be adapted across the age-range and during pregnancy. These subjects will give you a good underpinning structure for advancement into Level 5.

Theory content will be introduced through lead lectures (approx. 62 hours) and will be supplemented by instructional videos delivered online via the university Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).

Theory sessions will then be complimented by practical sessions (approximately 68 hours), incorporating supervised and unsupervised clinical skills training. In these sessions you will put into practice the theory that you have learnt and be given opportunity to practice particular key skills in preparation for placement in the Introduction to Applied Clinical Skills module.

Throughout these sessions you will be divided into skills groups and will be expected to take part in simulated learning where you will be expected to participate in the role of a clinician and may be asked to take on the role of a simulated patient to facilitate the learning of others. You will be given the opportunity to formally consent to participate in this manner prior to the commencement of this module; if you do not wish to consent alternative arrangements will be made to facilitate your learning.

BLABER, A. Y. & HARRIS, G. (2011) Assessment Skills for Paramedics. Maidenhead: McGraw Hill
GREGORY, P. & WARD, I. (Eds) (2010) 'Sanders' Paramedic Textbook. UK Edition. London: Mosby Elsevier
PILBERY, R., LETHBRIDGE, K. (2016) Ambulance Care Practice. Bridgwater: Class Professional Publishing

VLE
IT resources
Library resources
Clinical skills labs

Enrolled onto the following award;
BSc(Hons) of Science in Paramedic Science

In this module you will gain an insight into the theory of basic assessment skills and treatment options that a paramedic may use. You will consolidate this knowledge with practical clinical skill sessions.

Assessment in this module will be through two different methods.

The practical element of this module will be examined via 35 minutes of Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs). These OSCEs will cover all of the Learning Outcomes (1, 2, 3, 4, 5) and will be divided into two separate examinations:

1. Basic Life Support – This will examine your ability to perform BLS to an appropriate standard and will be assessed towards the end of your first university block, prior to starting your first ambulance placement.

2.. Electrocardiogram (ECG) Interpretation – This will examine your ability to interpret 3-lead ECG rhythms and will ensure that you have an appropriate knowledge-base and level of understanding to be able to advance to more advanced 12-lead interpretation later in the course. This will also take place during your second university block.

While these OSCEs are not graded, you are required to obtain a pass in each to complete this module.

The graded element for this module is obtained through a 15 minute Viva Voce (weighted 100%). This is an oral exam where you will be presented with a clinical scenario and will be expected to talk through and discuss all the relevant aspects of your assessment, develop a diagnosis and provide a treatment plan.