Master of Philosophy in Paediatric Critical Care

Purpose

The purpose of the qualification is to graduate paediatric critical care specialists capable of delivering comprehensive, cost-effective patient care to children (including infants and neonates) who have suffered a life threatening illness or injury, or who require major elective surgery. In addition, the graduates will be equipped to play a leadership role in the development and running of paediatric critical care units in South Africa. They will also be able to provide training in paediatric critical care to a wide range of health professionals who may be called upon to care for critically ill children.

Rationale

The training programme aims to allow certification (according to the requirements of the Health Professions Council of South Africa) as a registered subspecialist in Paediatric Critical Care.

Entry Requirements

A candidate shall not be admitted to the programme, unless he/she (a) submits proof that he/she, prior to commencing with education and training in the relevant subspecialty, has complied with all the requirements for registration as specialist in the primary or one of the primary specialities listed against the relevant subspecialty; (b) has been registered as a specialist in that field; and (c) has been appointed against a Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA)-approved training number.

This qualification comprises two focus areas namely

• Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Paediatric Critical Care Part 1 (PED7027W) Level 9, 120 Credits.
• MPhil in Paediatric Critical Care Part 2 (PED7028W) Level 9, 60 Credits.

1. Develop a sound theoretical understanding of the pathological and physiological processes relevant to the critically ill infant or child, practical skills in management of these patients, including the ability to perform procedures such as vascular access, airway control and mechanical ventilation in critically ill children.
2. Understanding and experience of the practical application of ethical principles regarding resources allocation and management of end of life issues.
3. Understand the principals involved in management of a critical care service including processes to ensure quality management and patient safety.
4. Develop an understanding of clinical research processes and the use of research based evidence to guide clinical practice.

Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome

• Demonstrate required knowledge and procedural skills as per the curriculum of the relevant College of Medicine. A logbook is required by the Colleges of Medicine and this provides evidence of adequate practical exposure and skill in clinical
• Demonstrate advanced scholarship or research in the field.

Integrated Assessment

The examination consists of two parts. The examination in Part I consists of one or more written paper(s) and/or such practical and/or oral examinations as the examiners may require. The examination in Part 2 (for those candidates who wish to obtain the Degree) consists of a dissertation.