Andrology

Details

Title

Andrology

Type

Stage Two

Module code

HPS312

Requirement

Compulsory

Module objective

By the end of this module the Clinical Scientist in HSST will be able to critically analyse, synthesise and apply their knowledge in the clinical setting and demonstrate the initial clinical assessment of the patient presenting with male sexual dysfunction and sub-fertility. They will also be able to recognise, deliver and report on the appropriate physiological test to address the findings from initial clinical assessment and apply a detailed knowledge of management options available to the supervising clinician based on the investigative findings, whilst critically evaluating their own response to both normal and complex situations using the professional attributes and insights required of a Consultant Clinical Scientist.

Knowledge and understanding

By the end of this module the Clinical Scientist in HSST will be able to critically analyse, synthesise and critically apply their expert knowledge with respect to andrology including:

•  the functional anatomy of the genitalia and reproductive tract in men.
• the clinical presentation of common andrological disorders, including as a minimum, erectile dysfunction and sub-fertility.
• the pathophysiology of erectile dysfunction.
• the epidemiology and risk factors for erectile dysfunction.
• the physiological investigations appropriate for assessing erectile dysfunction including:
  • cavernosography.
  • cavernosometry.
  • nocturnal tumescence testing.
  • doppler ultrasound scanning of the penis
  • angiography.
• the possible management options for erectile dysfunction including:
• the pharmacology pertaining to erectile function.
• the mechanism of action of commonly prescribed drugs used in the management of erectile dysfunction.
• other treatments including:
  • vacuum pumps.
  • intra-cavernosal and intra-urethral prostaglandins.
  • surgical penile implants

Technical and clinical skills

By the end of this module the Clinical Scientist in HSST will be able to demonstrate a critical understanding of current research and its application to the performance and mastery of the following technical skills appropriate to delivery of the physiological investigations above including:

• calibration of equipment used for physiological measurements in andrology.
• aseptic technique.
• test preparation.
• performance of each investigation.
• cleaning, disinfection and sterilisation.
• quality control/quality assurance

By the end of this module the Clinical Scientist in HSST will be expected to critically reflect and apply in practice a range of clinical and communication skills to advise and communicate effectively with patients, relevant clinicians and other healthcare professionals and will:

• take an appropriate and relevant clinical history and critically assess the clinical question.
• make appropriate decisions about specialist investigations.
• explain and justify the rationale for the investigation, its risks and benefits to the patient.
• obtain written informed consent.
• interpret clinical data
• produce diagnostic quality clinical reports.obtain written informed consent.
• 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 the Clinical Scientist in HSST will be expected to critically evaluate their own response to both normal and complex situations consistently 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:

• maintain the highest standards of professional behaviour including a prioritisation of the patient’s dignity during intimate examinations.
• work within personal limitations and know when to ask for help, especially with regard to clinical issues.
• use effective judgement and decision-making skills.
• work effectively in a multi-disciplinary team and demonstrate leadership where appropriate.
• manage time and prioritise workload e.g. balance urgent and important demands.
• apply ethical principles, safety, confidentiality and consent.
• be committed to and support continuous improvement of urodynamic services, with particular reference to auditing practice, evidence based practice, innovation, new and improved technologies.