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.