Pathophysiology and Management of Musculoskeletal & Rheumatic Disease Spring 2027 (NMHS42640)

Overview of the course

This course is designed to equip nurses caring for patients with rheumatic diseases with the necessary theoretical knowledge of the discipline of rheumatology. It is part of the UCD Graduate Diploma in Chronic Illness Management and is being offered in partnership with UCD. This course is now also being run as a standalone module, subject to demand.

The aim of this module is to enable students to develop a sound understanding of the theoretical knowledge associated with rheumatic disorders.

CPD credits:  10 ECTS, accredited by UCD

This course is Level 9 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ).

Who this course is for

This course is open to Registered General Nurses with a minimum of one year post-registration experience.

Topics will include

On completion of this course participants should be able to:

• Appraise philosophy and principles of rheumatology nursing as applied to individualised patient centred care

• Apply a critical perspective to the scientific basis of rheumatic diseases; the immune response, the inflammatory response, immunogenetics and the haematological and biochemical changes associated with rheumatic diseases

• Evaluate the difference between inflammatory, non-inflammatory and soft tissue rheumatological disorders and discuss the clinical features and progress of the main rheumatic disorders in adults and children, with reference to radiographic findings associated with rheumatic diseases

• Organise and demonstrate the ability to carry out a rapid musculoskeletal joint assessment and display an awareness of methods of joint examination, with the ability to differentiate between joint effusion, bony or soft tissue swelling or mechanical deformity

How you will learn

This course is delivered via blended learning, incorporating a mix of interactive online lectures, self-directed learning and in-person classes.

Assessment

Assessment of students involves an oral PowerPoint presentation and a written assignment.

Dates

The next course will run from January to May 2027. It includes 3 in-person days, which will take place on Mondays (exact dates TBC).

More information can be found on the UCD website.