Motor Neurone Disease
Level:
CPD
Duration:
3 hrs
Course code:
TD/2025/09053
Max group:
12
Understanding, diagnosing, and supporting individuals with Motor Neurone Disease
Course Summary
Motor Neurone Disease
The Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Essentials course is designed to provide healthcare professionals, caregivers, and support workers with the essential knowledge and skills to understand, manage, and support individuals living with Motor Neurone Disease. This comprehensive course explores the causes, symptoms, progression, and treatment options of MND, while emphasizing the importance of person-centered care, symptom management, and the role of multidisciplinary teams. Through case studies and practical examples, participants will learn how to enhance the quality of life for individuals with MND, while addressing the emotional, physical, and psychological challenges associated with this condition. Key Learning Objectives: Understand the Basics of Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Define MND and explain the different types, including Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Identify the causes, risk factors, and genetic predispositions associated with MND. Understand the pathophysiology of MND and how it affects motor neurons in the body. Recognize the Symptoms and Diagnosis of MND Learn to identify common symptoms of MND, including muscle weakness, spasticity, and dysphagia. Understand how MND is diagnosed, including clinical examination, imaging, and genetic testing. Recognize the importance of early diagnosis and intervention in managing the disease. Understand the Progression of MND Explore the stages of MND and how the disease progresses over time. Learn about the impact of MND on physical, cognitive, and emotional functioning. Understand the variability in symptom progression and the role of personalized care planning. Supportive Care and Symptom Management Explore strategies for managing common symptoms such as pain, muscle weakness, and respiratory issues. Understand the role of multidisciplinary teams (e.g., physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists) in supporting individuals with MND. Learn about assistive technologies and home adaptations to improve quality of life. Explore nutrition and hydration management in advanced stages of MND, focusing on dysphagia and feeding challenges. Emotional and Psychological Support Understand the psychological impact of MND on patients and their families, including anxiety, depression, and grief. Learn how to provide emotional support to individuals with MND and their caregivers. Explore the role of palliative care and advanced care planning in supporting patients through the progression of MND. Multidisciplinary Teamwork and Care Coordination Understand the role of the healthcare team in managing MND, including physicians, nurses, and allied health professionals. Learn about the importance of coordinated care and the benefits of integrated services. Understand the importance of supporting caregivers and providing respite care. Legal and Ethical Considerations Discuss ethical issues in MND care, such as decision-making capacity, advance directives, and end-of-life care. Understand legal considerations, including the Mental Capacity Act and the role of advanced care planning. Practical Approaches and Case Studies Engage with real-life case studies to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations. Discuss common challenges in MND care and explore solutions to improve outcomes for patients. Develop skills in communicating effectively with individuals with MND and their families. Target Audience: This course is designed for healthcare professionals, social workers, caregivers, and support workers who are involved in the care of individuals with Motor Neurone Disease. It is suitable for those seeking to improve their knowledge and skills in managing this complex, progressive condition.
Course Contents
Introduction to Motor Neurone Disease (MND)
Overview of Motor Neurone Disease (MND)
Types of MND: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Primary Lateral Sclerosis (PLS), Progressive Muscular Atrophy (PMA), and Bulbar Onset MND
Key statistics, causes, and risk factors associated with MND
The global impact of MND on individuals, families, and communities
Pathophysiology and Diagnosis of MND
Understanding the biology of MND: how motor neurons are affected
The process of neurodegeneration in MND
Recognizing early signs and symptoms of MND: muscle weakness, spasticity, speech and swallowing difficulties
Diagnostic approach: clinical examination, electromyography (EMG), imaging techniques, and genetic testing
The role of differential diagnosis in distinguishing MND from other neurological disorders
Stages and Progression of MND
Overview of disease progression: early, middle, and late stages
How symptoms evolve over time: motor, respiratory, and cognitive changes
The impact of MND on daily living and quality of life
Prognosis and the variability of disease progression in different individuals
Symptom Management and Supportive Care
Managing common symptoms of MND: muscle weakness, spasticity, cramps, and pain
Respiratory management: interventions for dyspnea, ventilation, and end-of-life considerations
Nutritional support and managing dysphagia (swallowing difficulties)
Assistive technologies and mobility aids: wheelchairs, speech-generating devices, and home modifications
The role of physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, and dietitians
Psychological and Emotional Impact of MND
Understanding the psychological effects of MND on patients and families
Common psychological challenges: depression, anxiety, and anticipatory grief
Communication strategies for discussing difficult topics, such as prognosis and end-of-life care
Providing emotional support and counseling to patients and their families
Addressing caregiver burnout and providing resources for family support
Multidisciplinary Care Approach
The importance of a multidisciplinary team (MDT) in MND care
Roles of key healthcare professionals: neurologists, nurses, respiratory therapists, dietitians, psychologists, and social workers
Coordinating care across different services and settings
Person-centered care and individualized care planning
Benefits of regular MDT meetings for reviewing care plans and symptom management
Palliative and End-of-Life Care
The role of palliative care in MND management
Understanding end-of-life issues in MND: advance care planning, patient autonomy, and decision-making capacity
Managing end-of-life symptoms: pain, respiratory distress, and psychological support
Ethical dilemmas in MND care: consent, assisted ventilation, and the right to die
Supporting families during the end-of-life process: emotional and practical considerations
Legal and Ethical Considerations in MND Care
Understanding the Mental Capacity Act and its relevance to MND patients
Advance directives, living wills, and powers of attorney
Ethical decision-making in care: managing choices around life support, nutrition, and ventilation Legal rights of MND patients and their families
The importance of ethical practice in delivering compassionate care
Assessment
The instructor conducts a single written assessments at the end of the course. Upon successful completion, learners will receive a three-year Level 3 Award in Principles of Safeguarding and Protecting Children, Young People or Vulnerable Adults (Level 6 in Scotland). No external assessors are required for this qualification.
Duration
The course requires a minimum of 7 hours, distributed over the day. While it is ideal to complete the course in one day, we can adjust the schedule to suit your specific needs, as long as the course is completed within 3 weeks of starting and each training session lasts at least two hours.
Certification Validity
This qualification has no formal expiry, however regular CPD and updates are recommended.
Further Information - Course Numbers
A maximum of 12 students can be accommodated on this course and all candidates must be a minimum of 18 years of age to qualify.
Assessment method: Activities, test paper.
Pre-requisite: None
Suggested progression:
recommended refresher training and CPD;