Paediatric SCRIPT

The programme comprises 20 modules, covering a wide range of therapeutic areas in medical and surgical specialties. Examples include: renal disease and fluid management; gastroenterology, hepatology and nutrition; and paediatric emergencies.

The modules contain a formative pre- and post-test helping learners determine their baseline knowledge and progress. Scenario-based activities are used throughout.

Aims and objectives

The overall aims of the learning are:

• To promote safe, effective, and rational prescribing for children.
• To improve prescribing competency of paediatricians.
• To reduce medication errors and improve patient safety.
• To provide an engaging platform for continuing professional development.

Curriculum

The modules are all structured in the same way, starting with a brief overview of the content, the learning outcomes, and a pre-test of 10 questions that is required to be completed prior to the module commencing. The module content is then divided into sections, intended to be completed in the order it appears on screen, but with the ability to move in and out of content. This allows for just-in-time learning, and also facilitates the use of the modules as a reference source later on.

The modules end with a post-test of 10 questions, so the learner can assess their knowledge acquisition and competence, as well as a section on further reading. There are two introductory modules on utilising the British National Formulary and the Principles of Prescribing in Paediatrics, both of which are recommended to be taken first, although not mandated.

Learning Outcomes

Each module has a pre-defined set of learning outcomes. However, in general by the end of the course, the learner should be able to:

• Describe the specific challenges of prescribing for children of various ages.
• Discuss how medication errors occur in paediatrics and their potential impact on patient safety.
• Describe the legal requirements and good practice standards for prescribing, and strategies to reduce the risk of error.
• Know where to look for reputable, evidence-based information relating to prescribing and therapeutics.
• Discuss the importance of monitoring for, and reporting any adverse effects from medicines.

The modules are authored/peer reviewed by a multidisciplinary team, involving paediatricians, pharmacists and nurses. The content is formally reviewed every two years, and continuously updated in-between time should changes in prescribing practice/ guidance occur.

Commissioned by Health Education West Midlands, SCRIPT was awarded a National Patient Safety Award in 2013.

Access the course online here.

Project Lead: Dr Helen Goodyear

Organisation: Health Education West Midlands