Management of the Lower Limb in Practice

Overview

Management of the Lower Limb in Practice is an in-depth, clinically orientated course developed to equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge and practical competencies required to holistically assess and manage patients presenting with lower limb ulcerations, lymphoedema and associated skin conditions. Lower limb wounds remain a significant burden to both patients and healthcare systems, and optimal outcomes depend on accurate assessment, appropriate compression therapy and evidence-based wound care interventions.

This course aims to equip the health professional with the necessary knowledge to holistically assess and manage the patient with lower limb ulcerations as well as Lymphoedema and other associated skin conditions for optimal healing.

Brochure

Prerequisite

To enrol in this course delegates must hold one of the following health care qualifications:

• Degree/Diploma in Nursing with a registration as professional nurse at the SANC according to the Nursing Act, Act No. 33 of 2005.
• Professional registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) in terms of the Health Professions Act, Act 56 of 1974.

      And completed one of the following:

• Short course in Wound Care by FPD.
• Holistic Wound Management by UFS.
• More than 3 years practical experience in the field of wound care.

Aim of of the course:

• To equip the health professional with the necessary knowledge to holistically assess and manage the patient with lower limb ulcerations as well as Lymphoedema and other associated skin conditions for optimal healing
• To empower individuals through evidence-based, up-to-date knowledge that is applicable to the day-to-day practice.

Successful candidates will be competent in:

• Improved knowledge and skills regarding the physiology and anatomy behind the formation of lower limb ulcers.
• Performing a lower limb assessment including vascular and lymphoedema assessment.
• Performing a manual Ankle brachial pressure index (ABPI).
• Classification of compression therapy systems available.
• Practical application of the different compression bandage systems available in South Africa.
• Implementing a treatment plan specific to the prevention and management of lower limb ulcers and lymphoedema.
• Wound bed preparation in the treatment of lower limb ulcers including debridement, infection control, moisture control and edge advancement utilising the wound bed preparation guideline.
• Utilising advance technologies in treating the lower limb.

Target Audience

The course is designed for Health Professionals such as MBChB, BCur or equivalent, Diploma in Nursing, BScHons Podiatry, BPharm, BSc Physiotherapy, BSc Occupational Therapy and other Allied Health Professionals postgraduate. The course does not exclude company representatives who would benefit from the knowledge acquired in their field of work. In the case of a representative with no clinical background the certificate will be an attendance certificate only and will not allow the representative to practice as a wound care clinician.

Evaluation

Formative Assessment is done through:

• Case study representation and group sessions.
• 4 Hour practical session after completion of module at and accredited Wound Care Facility.

Summative Assessment is done through:

• Pre- and post-course test. Minimum pass rate for post-test is 75%.
• Final Eloquent examination to be written online after completion of all the various courses. Minimum Pass rate is 75%.