Therapeutics in Audiological Science Practice

Details

Title

Therapeutics in Audiological Science Practice

Type

Stage One

Module code

HPS208

Requirement

Compulsory

Module objective

Medicines legislation does not currently allow Clinical Scientists to prescribe as either supplementary or independent prescribers. However, there are situations where medicines can be given by another professional following the directions of a prescriber referred to as patient specific directions. Provider organisations should have arrangements in place which enable these legal requirements to be implemented. This therapeutics module is included in this HSST curriculum to provide the underpinning knowledge and understanding of a range of therapeutics utilised within Audiological Science practice to support Clinical Scientists in HSST to work with other clinicians and healthcare professionals within the multi professional team. 

By the end of this module Clinical Scientists in HSST will be able to analyse, synthesise, evaluate and apply knowledge of appropriate audiological -specific therapeutic interventions relevant to clinical practice including non- medication-based therapeutic and preventative interventions within the scope of practice of a Consultant Clinical Scientist.

Knowledge and understanding

By the end of this module Clinical Scientists in HSST will analyse, synthesise, evaluate and apply their knowledge with respect to:

• the legal framework for the supply and administration of medicines.
• the indications, contraindications, side effects, interactions and dosages of commonly used drugs.
• the range of adverse reactions to commonly used drugs, including complementary medicines.
• the effect that drugs can have on clinical examination and formal assessment of the vestibular system
• the drugs requiring therapeutic monitoring and be able to interpret results.
• the use of medications appropriate for use in pregnancy, and during breast feeding.the roles of regulatory agencies involved in drug use, monitoring and licensing (e.g. National Institute for Clinical Excellence [NICE], Committee on Safety of Medicines [CSM], Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency and hospital formulary committees).
• tools used to promote patient safety in prescribing, including electronic clinical record systems and other IT systems.
• the effects of age, body size, organ dysfunction and concurrent illness on drug distribution and metabolism relevant to practice.
• the roles of regulatory agencies involved in drug use, monitoring and licensing (e.g. National Institute for Clinical Excellence [NICE], Committee on Safety of Medicines [CSM], Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency and hospital formulary committees).

Technical and clinical skills

Although not undertaking independent prescribing of medications, by the end of this module Clinical Scientists in HSST will be expected to critically reflect and apply in practice a range of clinical and communication skills to advise, communicate effectively and refer appropriately to relevant clinicians and other healthcare professionals and within the multiprofessional team:

• review the continuing need for, effect of, and adverse effects of long term medications relevant to the Consultant Clinical Scientists practice and refer to medical or other healthcare professional colleagues as appropriate.
• recognise and anticipate avoidable defined drug interactions, including with complementary medicines and refer as required.
• provide comprehensible explanations for the use of drugs to the patient and to carers when relevant; understanding the principles of compliance in ensuring that drug regimens are followed and refer as required.
• if appropriate, advise on non-medication based therapeutic interventions and preventative health interventions and refer as required.
• reflect on the challenges of applying research to practice in relation to these areas of practice and suggest improvements, building on a critique of available evidence.

Attitudes and behaviours

By the end of this module Clinical Scientists in HSST will be expected to evaluate their own response to both normal and complex situations demonstrating the professional attributes and insights required of a Consultant Clinical Scientist working within the limits of professional competence referring as appropriate to senior staff and will:

• recognise the benefit of minimising the number of medications and interventions taken by a patient to a level compatible with best care.
• ensure that there is clear information for patients about stopping drugs prior to vestibular testing.
• remain open to advice from other health professionals on medication issues.
• ensure information is shared promptly and accurately with a patient’s health providers, including between primary and secondary care.
• participate in adverse drug event reporting processes.
• remain up to date with therapeutic alerts, and respond appropriately.