Faculty of Health

Acute stroke care is a rapidly changing field with new investigations and treatments emerging. This module will address acute stoke unit care, thrombolysis, advanced imaging (e.g. CT angiography, perfusion/diffusion imaging, MRI, transcranial Doppler) and interventional treatments (e.g. intra-arterial thrombolysis and thrombectomy) and integration of clinical practice with research. It aims to respond to the need for healthcare professionals who can rise to the challenge of rapid changes in stroke care. This module will provide technical updating and personal development for those involved in front line stroke services by using small group teaching, on-line exams and practice in audit to enhance service delivery.

This module aims to develop the knowledge, skills and critical abilities to enable participants play a leading role in care of acute and hyperacute stroke in a changing health environment.

Undergraduate degree or equivalent in a healthcare related discipline, and active involvement in stroke services.

Through a mix of key note talks and lectures from experts in the field , small group work and on-line and self directed study students will cover aspects of cerebral anatomy, diagnosis and management of acute and hyperacute stroke, including imaging for stroke and thrombolysis; practice with the principles and practice of setting up and auditing stroke services.

1.       2-hour unseen exam.  Case based assessment of ability to diagnose the severity and prognosis of stroke by the use of standard tools.  Assessment of competency will be by web or paper based clinical case scenarios including identification of key diagnostic features on CT/MRI images of the brain and cerebral circulation.

2.       1500-word audit.  Students will carry out an audit of an aspect of thrombolysis care in their professional area demonstrating the ability to set appropriate standards and make recommendations for practice.