Certificate in Understanding Cancer Support
Course Overview
This is a very informative and interesting short course, which provides comprehensive tuition of a wide variety of aspects of cancer care. It is a valuable course for health and social care workers as well as those wanting to increase their knowledge of cancer specifically.
Key Information
Course Length
Learning Method(s)
Online materials
Online assessment
For Individuals
Cost and Funding Information
Funded Course
Yes
Study this course
This unit looks at normal and cancer cells, their functions and differences, and how cancer cells can spread around the body. Different categories of cancer are considered, along with their prevalence in the UK. Risk factors are discussed, and national policy and strategy on cancer care. Awareness and attitudes are considered along with survival rates and life expectancy.
Unit 2 – Introduction to the Diagnosis and Treatment of CancerUnit 2 looks at the signs and symptoms of a range of cancers, and how some other conditions may mask symptoms. Self-checks and screening tests are described, then further tests used in diagnosis. Clinical pathways are identified along with staging and grading systems used. The impacts of diagnosis are considered, both physical and psychological. Then key aspects and potential side effects of treatment are covered. Also, the complex area of informed choices about care and treatment are discussed, with support issues and dilemmas faced.
Unit 3 – Introduction to Cancer Care and SupportThis unit considers the contribution of family, carers and the cancer care team. Local and national support organisations are identified, and how to access support for individuals and their families. The impact of cancer upon daily life is considered in a variety of ways, as well as the legal rights of individuals in the UK. Benefits and coping strategies are also discussed. Long term effects of living with cancer are covered, along with management of the condition. Different attitudes and views on death and dying are discussed, and the differences between ‘end of life care’ and ‘palliative care’ are covered in some depth, including Advance Care Planning.
Unit 4 – Introduction to End of Life and Bereavement CareIssues of mental capacity, advocacy and decision-making are discussed, along with sources of support. Loss and grief are considered in some depth, with the stages of grief described as identified by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross. Factors which can affect the intensity and duration of the grief journey are looked at, with different responses to grief explained. This unit concludes with ways to manage feelings and support available.