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Pharmacology for Prescribers

This module encourages the student to enhance their knowledge of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics and therapeutic uses of drugs. This generic knowledge will be related to the students’ area of practice through placement experiences where the student is able to work alongside a practice supervisor and practice assessor/designated medical practitioner. The content adheres to the standards set out in the Competency Framework for all Prescribers (Royal Pharmaceutical Society, 2021), the Standards for Prescribing Programmes (Nursing and Midwifery Council, 2023) and the Standards for Prescribing (Health and Care Professions Council, 2019).

The module is one of the core modules that makes up the Prescribing Programme at DeMontfort University, together with the module Applied Prescribing (PRES 5005). Upon successful completion of both modules the qualification allows the nurse, midwife or allied health professional to prescribe independently or in a supplementary capacity from the British National Formulary as both an independent and supplementary prescriber (NMC recorded qualification V300 or HCPC IP/SP). 

Both Pharmacology for Prescribers and Applied Prescribing modules are taught concurrently over 2 academic semesters; applicants must apply for both modules upon application (PRES 5006 and PRES 5005).

Entry Criteria

• You must be a nurse (level 1) or midwife registered with the NMC or a physiotherapist/podiatrist/ paramedic/ therapeutic radiographer/ dietician or diagnostic radiographer registered with the HCPC.
• You must possess 120 credits at level 5 (or equivalent) for degree level study or a degree at 2:2 or above (or equivalent) for master’s level study.
• You must have been on the relevant professional register for a minimum of one year.
• You must be competent in: patient assessment, diagnostics, planning and evaluation of care. Ideally you should possess a course such as the Consultation and Physical Examination Skills Module (PCPH 3054).
• Your practice assessor must sign to confirm that you have these skills prior to starting the course.
• If English is not your first language you must complete the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). You must provide an IELTS certificate to confirm a minimum score of 7.0, in reading, listening and speaking as well as a level 6.5 in writing or provide evidence of previous degree level study at a UK university.
• You must have the support of two prescribers: one to take on the role of practice assessor and the other to take on the role of practice supervisor.
• You must have the support of a prescriber willing to take on the role of continuing professional development facilitator on qualification.
• You must, if applicable, have managerial and non-medical prescribing lead support (for self-employed candidates this is not required but a professional reference is required instead).
• Your placement area must have an educational audit in place. If your placement does not have educational audit, this must be completed prior to you starting the course.
• You must complete a good health good character form.
• You must have an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check covering adults and children within 3 years of start of the course. (A basic certificate is not sufficient).
• You must be interviewed by the prescribing team.