CPD Managing the Deteriorating Patient | Level 7 (Postgraduate)

Studying this module is essential for developing the advanced knowledge and critical skills required to recognise and manage the deteriorating patient safely and effectively. It enables learners to critically explore the presentation of deterioration across neurological, respiratory, renal and septic systems, including compensatory mechanisms that may mask early warning signs. Through an evidence-based approach, students interpret escalation processes and analyse factors influencing responses, including human, organisational and communication issues.

The module also examines barriers to recognition, early warning systems, national patient safety incidents and out-of-hospital management. This learning is vital to improving patient outcomes, strengthening clinical judgement and enhancing patient safety across diverse primary, secondary and community healthcare settings.

The application of theory is enhanced by simulated practice in the university's state of the art simulation facilities.

The module will run for 15 weeks and commence in April and run on a Wednesday. 

This module is delivered face to face and uses simulation to enable students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world clinical practice, strengthening decision-making, escalation skills, and patient safety awareness. The module takes place at the School of Nursing, Public and Allied Health, Tithebarn Building, (L2 2ER), in the heart of Liverpool city centre. 

Postgraduate Complexities in Acute Medicine and Surgery

You can also undertake this course as part of a combined award of Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert) Complexities in Acute Medicine and Surgery.

The PgCert comprises three 20 credit modules:

1. Acute Medicine: Presentations and Management 
2. Acute Surgery: Presentations and Post Operative Management 
3. Managing the deteriorating patient 

For further information about this award please visit the course page.

 The module will cover:

• Presentation of the deteriorating patient
• Early warning systems and red flags
• Interpretation of signs and symptoms related to the deteriorating patient across a range of systems
• Compensatory mechanisms and how they mask presentations
• Barriers to recognition of deterioration
• Factors that influence incidents relating to deterioration including human, communication, education and training, organisational, equipment and resources. 
• Why processes fail and national patient safety incidents
• Escalating concerns 
• Organisational responses - MET teams and outreach
• Management and escalation in an out of hospital setting

• Undergraduate degree

  Applicants should hold a BA/BSc (Hons) degree in a relevant subject at a 2:2 level or higher. We also welcome applications from those who can demonstrate appropriate professional registration and/or experience in a relevant clinical specialty.

To apply for this programme, you are required to complete an LJMU CPD application form. You will need to provide details of your qualifications and current employment.

Assessment for this module consists of a 3,000-word academic essay in which students critically analyse the management and escalation of care for a deteriorating patient, applying evidence-based practice, patient safety principles, and relevant literature to demonstrate clinical reasoning and critical evaluation.