PG Credit Clinical Biochemistry CPD / Course details

This unit will provide trainees with an understanding of paediatric biochemistry and the disorders and conditions common to paediatrics. Trainees will appreciate the technical challenges of paediatric biochemistry including the differences in sample types, reference ranges and physiology and that children are not just “small adults”. Trainees will gain experience in the investigation of inborn errors of metabolism focusing on the more common, acute presenting disorders. Additionally, those relevant to the investigation of developmental delay and dysmorphism, and endocrine disorders relevant to the paediatric population.

The unit aims to:

•    Critical understanding of the key differences between paediatric and adult patients in interpretating biochemistry results for diagnosis and management of various paediatric conditions.
•    Provide students with a knowledge and understanding of the biochemical basis and physiological consequences of inborn errors of metabolism.
•    Provide students with an in-depth appreciation and understanding of key paediatric investigations.

This unit employs a range of teaching and learning approaches including lectures, tutorials, case studies/presentations, problem-based learning and data analysis and interpretation exercises. Mobile Learning (M-learning) is also used to provide interactive tutorials and formative assessment.

•    Evaluate the biochemical differences between adults and children.
•    Critically evaluate the design, operation and performance of biochemical techniques used in paediatric biochemistry.
•    Discuss the clinical and laboratory investigation of a neonate with developmental delay and/or dysmorphism.
•    Evaluate the clinical and laboratory investigation of an infant presenting with: hypoglycaemia, hyperammonaemia, jaundice, metabolic acidosis or sudden unexpected death in infancy.
•    Apply integrative knowledge of appropriate investigative strategy for most common, acute presenting but potentially treatable disorders with emphasis on the organic acid, amino acid, urea cycle and fatty acid oxidation disorders.
•    Discuss the clinical and laboratory investigation for paediatric endocrine disorders.
•    Convey complex biochemical information to inform the multidisciplinary team about cause and consequences of conditions caused by genetic defects.
 

•    To critically analyse and objectively interpret data obtained from the biochemical investigation of neonates and children.
•    Employ a combination of reflection and critical thinking to design strategies for the investigation of neonates and children who fail to thrive.
 

•    Retrieve, manage and collate information from primary and secondary sources.
•    Present information clearly in the form of verbal and written reports.
•    Communicate complex ideas and arguments in a clear and concise and effective manner.
•    Manage personal workload and objectives to achieve optimal personal performance.
•    Work effectively either as an individual or part of a team.
 

•    Effectively utilise a range of information sources including information technology / health informatics.
•    Demonstrate capacity for self-learning and independent thinking and to utilise problem solving skills.
•    Demonstrate effective communication skills (verbal and written).
•    Be able to set priorities and link these with effective time management. 
•    Critically evaluate their personal performance both as an individual and within a team.
•    Demonstrate skills in working collegiately and effectively with others as a member of a team.
 

MCQs/short answer exam: 80%

Assignment: 20%

Formative case presentations, data interpretation exercises, interactive tutorial using mobile technology and practice exam questions.