Paediatric Intensive Care Nursing

Consisting of three modules of study – Foundations of Paediatric Intensive Care Nursing, Care of the Child with Respiratory Compromise, and Nursing Interventions for the Child in Paediatric Intensive Care - that are taken over a year.

On completion of the three modules, the learner will achieve a Qualification in Specialty (QIS) for Paediatric Intensive Care Nursing, mapped against the Paediatric Critical Care Society standards (2021), to provide assurance of standardisation and national application. The learner can then use the credits to create a Post Graduate Certificate in Paediatric Intensive Care.

Module 1 - Foundations of Paediatric Intensive Care Nursing

The major focus of this module of study will be the application of essential physiology of the major body systems and the systematic assessment of the critically ill child or young person. Underlying pathophysiology and reasons for admission of the child to the paediatric intensive care unit will be explored. Knowledge underpinning a systematic assessment will be developed through critical review of relevant theory and reflective accounts of clinical experience.

Module 2 - Care of the Child with Cardiac and Respiratory Compromise

The focus of this module is cardio-respiratory support therapy and nursing management of the child with cardiovascular and/or respiratory compromise. Teaching and learning will explore conditions and situations leading to respiratory and circulatory compromise and its impact on the child and family. There will be strong emphasis on cardiovascular support and mechanical ventilation and its application in the clinical setting. On completion of this module, you should be able to apply theory to enhance your practice.

Module 3 - Nursing Interventions for the Child in Paediatric Intensive Care

This module will focus on the continuing management of the infant, child or adolescent requiring paediatric intensive care. A systems-based approach will be used to explore care pathways to manage the specific physiological changes, which may be experienced by children or young people. Discharge planning and the implications for ongoing care that the child or young person and family may require will be considered. The profound impact that the paediatric intensive care experience may have on the child or young person and family will also be examined. Implicit throughout is the consideration of ethical, legal and professional issues

Booking and further information

For more information and application details, please contact the GOSH module lead: Alison.Irwin@gosh.nhs.uk