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Faculty of Science & Health

NS5077 Chronic Skin Conditions

Course Summary

This is a level 9 (Masters Level) 10 ECTS credit module. It can be taken on a stand alone basis
or as part of the Graduate Certificate in Dermatology programme*. Delivered fully online,
theoretical, and clinical skills content facilitated by expert clinicians are further supported
through clinical supervision in the learner’s work environment. Learning activities will include
synchronous & asynchronous lectures/tutorials offered across a 12 week semester starting
September 2022 (exact schedule will be available in August 2022).

Who Should Attend?

Nurses/Midwives with a Special Interest in Dermatology who want to consolidate their
professional competencies, diagnostic skills and examine the best available evidence to support
treatment of commonly occurring chronic dermatological conditions such as acne, eczema and
psoriasis, hair and nail disorders. The module focuses on managing the delivery of appropriate
dermatology care in acute and community-based settings and promoting health and self-help for
patients with skin conditions. Candidates will be required to furnish a completed ‘Engagement
Agreement for Clinical Supervision Process’ from their employing authority/line manager prior to
module commencement. This form accompanies the module application form.

Topics to include:

  • Introduction to chronic skin conditions
  • Epidemiology, prevalence and risk factors of chronic skin conditions
  • Aetiology, histopathology, immunology of common skin conditions psoriasis, eczema, urticaria, acne
  • Holistic patient assessment/examination incorporating subjective and objective data, recognised tools and grading systems/protocols
  • Therapeutic management including of commonly presenting skin conditions
  • Psychological support for people with chronic skin conditions
  • Evidence-informed care, clinical guidelines/protocols, research and audit
  • Contemporary medico-legal issues / clinical Governance
  • Service provision - developing/managing dermatological services
Benefits to Practitioners

This module aims to equip candidates with the requisite knowledge, skills, attributes and
capabilities to meet the needs of clients who have chronic skin conditions. It supports existing
and expanding professional roles in practice providing an opportunity for accredited learning to
assist in formal career advancement structures and requirements (where applicable). This may
include expansion of existing practice.

Module Assessment

The module will be assessed by completion of a portfolio of evidence comprising: Competency
assessment of skills, Evidence-based case study, an MCQ and Reflective practice. There is no
written examination.

Cost of Module

€500

Graduate Certificate in Dermatology* (DC741) applicant information including fees please refer
to the DCU Fees Office web page.

Deadline for Applications

Completed applications including your CV, signed ‘Engagement Agreement for Clinical Supervision Process’ from their employing authority/line manager/ Intern coordinator, a passport size photo in JPEG format and a copy of your certificate of professional registration should be submitted science@dcu.ie by 5pm, Friday 24th June 2022 (extended to Friday 8th July @ 5pm)

For an application form please email: science@dcu.ie

For further information on the module please contact: Dr Therese Leufer, email: therese.leufer@dcu.ie or
Ms Fidelma O’Dowd (RANP-Dermatology), email: fidelmaodowd@beaumont.ie