Course Details

West African College of Clinical Physiology Sciences (WACCPS)

Duration: 12 Months

Target Audience: Graduates of Human Physiology and recognized health related health sciences

1. Programme Overview

1.1. Programme Title:

Professional Certification in Critical Care Physiology

1.2. Programme Objectives:

• To develop expertise in monitoring and supporting failing organ systems
• To train specialists in advanced life support technologies
• To enhance physiological monitoring in critical care settings
• To promote evidence-based critical care practice

1.3 Expected Competencies:

• Graduates will be able to:
• Operate and interpret data from critical care monitoring systems
• Manage mechanical ventilation and hemodynamic support
• Conduct specialized critical care diagnostics
• Assist in the Implementation of organ support strategies

2. Programme Structure

9 months intensive training + 3 months clinical immersion

2.1 Core Modules

Module 1: Foundations of Critical Care (Months 1-2)

• Systems physiology in critical illness
• Pathophysiology of shock states
• Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome
• Pharmacology in critical care

Module 2: Monitoring Technologies (Months 3-5)

• Hemodynamic Monitoring:
• Arterial lines, CVP, pulmonary artery catheters
• Pulse contour analysis
• Respiratory Monitoring:
• Ventilator waveform analysis
• EIT (Electrical Impedance Tomography) basics
• Neurological Monitoring:
• ICP monitoring
• Cerebral oximetry

Module 3: Introduction to Intervention Strategies (Months 6-8)

• Mechanical ventilation management
• Renal replacement therapies
• ECMO principles and monitoring
• Nutritional support in critical illness

Module 4: Clinical Immersion (Months 9-12)

• ICU rotations (medical, surgical, cardiac)
• Emergency response training
• Quality improvement project

3. Teaching Methodology

• Daily simulation drills
• Bedside teaching rounds
• Multidisciplinary case conferences
• Journal clubs

4. Assessment Framework

1. Technical Skills:

• Ventilator management competency
• Hemodynamic crisis simulations

2. Clinical Decision Making: Complex case analyses

3. Research Component: Clinical audit project

5. Professional Career Pathways

• ICU physiologist
• Critical care specialist
• Emergency response team member
• Hospital acute care coordinator

Accreditation:

International Education Accreditation Council (IEAC)

Approved by: WACCPS

This program addresses West Africa's critical shortage of trained intensive care professionals while incorporating global best practices with local relevance. Apply Now