Certificate in Adult Respiratory Nursing Practice
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NEXT INTAKE: JANUARY 2026
Course Overview
Respiratory diseases are responsible for significant health and economic burden in terms of both the individual and society at large i.e. disability, premature death and financial/economic considerations. Respiratory diseases make up three of the six most common causes of death globally with COPD ranked 4th, lower respiratory tract infection (including pneumonia) 5th and cancers of the trachea, bronchus and lung 6th (WHO 2021). By 2030, the WHO estimates that four respiratory diseases (pneumonia, tuberculosis, lung cancer and COPD) will account for about one in five deaths worldwide. Whether at a primary, secondary or tertiary level the non-specialist nurse has a particular role to play in providing evidence-based healthcare to individuals with respiratory disease. Increasingly it is recognised that focused, systematic and collaborative care can change the course of recovery, symptom impact, quality of life and even survival.
This programme aims to enhance nurses’ evidence-based knowledge, skills, and competencies to address the challenges of supporting individuals with acute or chronic respiratory conditions. Nurses participating in this programme will critically evaluate the assessment and management of respiratory conditions within their practice, enabling them to deliver timely, optimal, collaborative, and compassionate care that improves client outcomes and quality of life
What makes this course different
This programme is approved by the NMBI (Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland).
This programme is suitable for nurses from various disciplines including those working in the Intellectual Disability and General settings
Course Delivery and Modules
The programme is delivered using a blended learning approach, which includes face-to-face lectures (approx 4 full days) on campus in DkIT, live online lectures (from 09.00hrs to 17.00hrs) recorded lectures as well as directed and independent study.
Days the programme will be delivered (subject to change)
27th Jan - Face to Face to DkIT
10th Feb - Live online lectures
24th Feb - Live online lectures
10th March - Face to Face to DkIT
24th March - Live online lectures
13th April - Face to Face to DkIT
28th April - Live online lectures
5th May - Face to Face to DkIT
This dynamic certificate programme is designed for healthcare professionals seeking to deepen their knowledge and enhance their clinical practice in adult respiratory care. Through a blend of theoretical exploration and practical application, participants will:
- Explore Respiratory Disorders in Depth
Gain a comprehensive understanding of the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and progression of common and complex respiratory conditions affecting adults. - Develop advanced skills in conducting comprehensive health histories and physical assessments for individuals with respiratory conditions.
- Deliver Evidence-Based Care and Management
- Critically evaluate and apply the latest research and clinical guidelines to provide safe, effective, and person-centred care for individuals with respiratory illnesses.
- Understand the Lived Experience of Respiratory Illness and empower individuals to manage chronic respiratory conditions effectively.
- Critically explore the concepts of health and wellness in the context of respiratory disease and its impact on individuals’ lived experiences. Develop strategies to support holistic care and improve quality of life.
Fees and Funding
Fees
Entry requirements
Participants must be:
- Registered Nurse with NMBI
- Currently employed in health care provision
- Applicants will normally hold a level 8 qualification.
- Applicants who do not have a level 8 qualification may apply for entry to the programme in accordance with the procedures outlined in the DkIT Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy. Learn more about RPL at DkIT
- Due to the blended learning delivery within this course students should have access to a PC / Mac, a headset with a mic, and a broadband internet connection from home, so as to be able to fully participate in the course
- Basic IT skills essential
- Applicants may be interviewed
- Applicants should have a minimum of 1 years post registration experience
How to apply
Register your interest here
Apply for this course using our online applications system as per below. Please submit the following documents with your application:
- Copy of CV
- Copy of NMBI registration
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Disclaimer: All module titles are subject to change and for indicative purposes only. All courses are delivered subject to demand and timetables are subject to change. Elective Module options will only run subject to student numbers. The relevant Department will determine the viability of each elective module option proceeding depending on the number of students who choose that option. Students will be offered alternative elective modules on their programme should their preferred elective option not be proceeding. Award Options for Common Entry Programmes: The relevant Department will determine the viability of each award option proceeding depending on the number of students who choose either option. If the numbers for one of the Award options exceed available places, students for this option will be selected based on Academic Merit (highest grades).