AC6717 - Respiratory Disorders

What will I learn on this module?

This module is aimed at registered healthcare professionals who care for patients with respiratory disorders across all healthcare settings. The primary focus is on the normal anatomy and physiology of the respiratory system and an exploration of the altered pathophysiology of both acute and chronic respiratory disorders. Topics include, but are not limited to:

• Asthma and COPD
• Tuberculosis
• Lung transplantation
• Cystic Fibrosis
• Pulmonary Embolism
• Pulmonary rehabilitation
• Smoking cessation
• Pneumonia
• Pneumothorax
• Occupational lung disease
You will develop a comprehensive understanding of the care and treatment of these disorders, including assessment, investigations, and management. The module integrates the importance of inter-professional working and highlights the scope of healthcare provision for respiratory disorders, including the psychological impact on patients and their families.
The assessment for this module is a 3000-word case study on a chosen acute or chronic respiratory disorder. This will allow you to demonstrate your knowledge and understanding, critically analysing the condition and reflecting on best practices and implications for patient care.

How will I learn on this module?

During this module, you will explore the normal anatomy and physiology of the respiratory system before applying this knowledge to the altered pathophysiology of acute and chronic respiratory disorders. Key topics covered include:
• Respiratory pathophysiology
• Respiratory failure and its management
• Asthma and COPD
• Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) in respiratory care
• Respiratory history taking and physical examination
• Tuberculosis
• Lung transplantation
• Analysing clinical evidence and research
• Cystic Fibrosis
• Pulmonary Embolism
• Pulmonary rehabilitation
• Smoking cessation
• Pneumonia
• Pneumothorax
• Occupational lung disease

You will learn through a combination of interactive lectures, seminars, and directed study, delivered by lecturers and practitioners with specialist respiratory practice experience. As healthcare professionals, you will be expected to actively engage in the learning process, participate in group work, and apply what is taught to your practice setting. You will be encouraged to share your expertise and debate practice issues, enabling you to make evidence-based recommendations to improve patient care. To support your learning, you will have access to Blackboard (Bb) Ultra, which provides flexibility in accessing module information and resources between taught sessions.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

You will receive robust academic support throughout this module. The Module Leader, who has extensive experience in specialised respiratory care and maintains close links with clinical practice areas in the UK, will be your primary point of contact.
Support includes:
• Scheduled timetabled group sessions at university
• Formative feedback throughout the module
• Access to individual tutorials for summative assessment
• Sessions delivered by specialist lecturers and practitioners
• Access to library and student support services for study skills support via Blackboard Ultra, helpline, and email enquiry services
Additionally, you will be encouraged to utilise online resources and e-learning tools provided through the module site to enhance your learning experience and support your academic development.

What will I be expected to read on this module?

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.

What will I be expected to achieve?

Knowledge & Understanding:
1. On completion of the module, you will be expected to understand the principle structures of the respiratory system and their physiological function.
2. On completion of the module, you will critically explore the complex pathophysiology underpinning acute and chronic respiratory disorders.
3. On completion of the module, you will critically examine the management of patients with respiratory disorders.

Intellectual / Professional Skills & Abilities:

4. On completion of the module, you will critically analyse the contemporary evidence underpinning the care delivery and management of respiratory disorders.

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA)

5. You will appreciate the key attributes of complex respiratory issues and apply theory to practice settings.

How will I be assessed?

Formative assessment
Formative assessment will take place during scheduled sessions throughout the module. These assessments will be informed by your engagement in various learning activities, including:
• Group presentations on selected respiratory disorders
• Interactive case study discussions
• Practical workshops on respiratory assessment techniques
• Participation in seminars and group debates

Feedback on your performance in these activities will be provided by the module tutor. This feedback will be timely and constructive, aiming to support your learning and development as you progress through the module. The module tutor will offer insights into your understanding of the material, your ability to apply knowledge in practical scenarios, and your collaborative skills within group settings. This ongoing feedback will help you to identify areas for improvement and prepare effectively for the summative assessment. (MLO 1-5).

Summative assessment
The summative assessment strategy is designed to ensure that you have the comprehensive knowledge to recognise and provide appropriate care for patients with a chosen respiratory disorder. This will be achieved through an online electronic submission of a 3000-word case study.

Content Requirements:
• Pathophysiology: A detailed discussion of the pathophysiology of the chosen respiratory disorder, including its underlying mechanisms and impact on the respiratory system.
• Evidence-Base: A critical exploration of the current evidence base for the management of the disorder. This should include an analysis of the latest clinical guidelines, treatment options, and inter-professional approaches to care.

Submission Details:
The case study must be submitted electronically through the university's designated online platform by the specified deadline.

Feedback:
• Feedback on your case study will be provided electronically.
• It will include detailed comments on your understanding of the pathophysiology, the quality of your critical analysis, and the application of evidence-based practices.

Additionally, the feedback will offer development advice to support your future academic work, helping you to identify strengths and areas for improvement. (MLO 1-5).

Pre-requisite(s)

To undertake this module, you must hold a valid current professional registration (i.e.: NMC / GMC / HCPC)

Co-requisite(s)

N/A

Module abstract

The Respiratory Disorders module is essential for registered healthcare professionals seeking to advance their expertise in respiratory care. This module explores the intricate anatomy and physiology of the respiratory system and the pathophysiology of conditions such as Asthma, COPD, and Tuberculosis. Benefit from Research-Rich Learning with the latest evidence-based practices and engage in Technology Enhanced Learning through interactive lectures and online resources. The module’s comprehensive assessment strategy includes a 3000-word case study, ensuring you can apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios. Feedback will be tailored to enhance your future academic and professional endeavours. Our module stands out with high student satisfaction rates and state-of-the-art facilities. Gain critical skills in respiratory assessment, inter-professional collaboration, and evidence-based management, opening pathways to advanced roles in respiratory care and improving patient outcomes. Join us to elevate your professional journey in respiratory healthcare.

Course info

Credits 20

Level of Study Postgraduate

Mode of Study 1 year Part Time

Department Nursing, Midwifery & Health

Location Coach Lane Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Start September 2025 or January 2026

Fee Information

Module Information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing. 

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.  

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

 

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