Course Details in 2026/27 Session


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Module Title Introduction to Clinical Practice in Anaesthesia
SchoolSchool of Medical Sciences
Department Birmingham Medical School
Module Code 01 22128
Module Lead Professor T Clutton-Brock
Level Honours Level
Credits 30
Semester
Pre-requisites
Co-requisites
Restrictions PGDip and MSc in Physician Assistant (Anaesthesia) Studies
Exclusions
Description The module is designed to introduce students, some of whom will not previously have worked in the health service, to the layout and function of the hospital in general and the operating department in particular. They will be introduced to the members of the operating department team, the roles they fulfil and their interactions with each other and with personnel in wards etc.

The module will also introduce them to:
  • the basic equipment of the operating department and to major safety issues for patients and themselves
  • medical law and ethics with particular reference to the operative and peri-operative period
  • basic anatomy, physiology and pharmacology
  • disease processes and common medical conditions
  • basic principles underpinning surgical management
  • physical examination and the rationale for / interpretation of simple investigations
  • historical perspective on the development of anaesthesia
  • scientific principles underpinning the administration of general, local and regional anaesthesia
  • the pharmacology of anaesthetic drugs and the induction and maintenance of anaesthesia and on recovery from anaesthetic
In addition, students are taught the clinical skills of IV cannulation, infusion and drug administration, airway assessment and basic life support and will develop / refine the communication and basic practical skills required for the role.In addition, students are taught the clinical skills of IV cannulation, infusion and drug administration, airway assessment and basic life support and will develop / refine the communication and basic practical skills required for the role.
Learning Outcomes By the end of the module the student should be able to:
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the risks inherent in the function of the operating department and anaesthetic room function and the responsibility of all for their own and others' safety;
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the importance of good relationships and clear and timely communication for effective teamwork and good patient care;
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the principles good patient care in the operative and perioperative care, including ethical and legal issues;
  • Demonstrate an understanding of anatomy, physiology, pathology and pharmacology which will support continuing development as a specialist practitioner;
  • Demonstrate competence in physical examination and, when monitoring physiological status, the capacity to critically assess variations from the norm;
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the scientific principles and practical issues guiding induction, maintenance and termination of anaesthesia and the care of the post-operative patient in the recovery room and on the ward;
  • Demonstrate understanding of and competence in resuscitation to Basic Life Support standard as defined by the Resuscitation Council.
Assessment 22128-04 : 8 month MCQ : Exam (School Arranged) - MCQ (Multiple Choice Questions) (100%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions Assessment:

MCQ Examination 75%; Portfolio Case 25%. RITE (Record of in-training experience), Supervisor assessment, BLS competence assessment.

Reassessment:

Single resit for MCQ. Ability to carry Block Progression Sign off to next Block only
Other None
Reading List