ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Nutritional Support in Critical Care (Dip Critical Care Nutrition)

The ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Nutritional Support in Critical Care (Dip Critical Care Nutrition) is an advanced qualification designed for learners aiming to specialise in the complex and high-demand area of critical care nutrition. This programme provides in-depth knowledge of nutritional assessment, support strategies, and interventions for patients in intensive care and other critical care settings. Learners will explore the physiological, metabolic, and clinical considerations essential for delivering safe and effective nutrition therapy to critically ill individuals.

Through this diploma, learners will develop the skills to assess nutritional status, design tailored feeding plans, and implement evidence-based nutritional support protocols in collaboration with multidisciplinary healthcare teams. The course emphasises the importance of understanding critical illness metabolism, enteral and parenteral feeding techniques, and monitoring strategies to optimise patient outcomes.

The programme is particularly relevant for healthcare professionals, including dietitians, nurses, and clinical practitioners, seeking to enhance their expertise and professional credibility in nutritional support for critically ill patients. Learners will gain practical insights into managing complex nutritional needs, responding to complications, and applying clinical guidelines in real-world critical care environments.

Completing this Level 6 diploma not only expands professional knowledge but also contributes to Continuing Professional Development (CPD), strengthening career prospects in hospital settings, critical care units, and specialist nutritional support services. By combining theoretical understanding with practical application, learners will be equipped to deliver high-quality, evidence-based nutritional care that supports patient recovery and improves clinical outcomes.

Course overview

Level 6 Diploma in Nutritional Support in Critical Care (Dip Critical Care Nutrition)

To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Nutritional Support in Critical Care (Dip Critical Care Nutrition), learner must meet the following entry requirements:

  • Age Requirement: Learners must be at least 19 years old at the time of registration.
  • Educational Background: A recognised qualification at Level 5 or equivalent in nutrition, dietetics, health sciences, nursing, or a related clinical discipline is required. Applicants with alternative qualifications may also be considered if they can demonstrate relevant professional knowledge and experience.
  • Work Experience: While not mandatory, learners with prior experience in healthcare, critical care, or clinical nutrition will be better prepared to engage with the advanced clinical and scientific content of the programme. Relevant experience ensures learners can apply theory to practice effectively in high-acuity environments.
  • English Proficiency: Learners must demonstrate sufficient proficiency in English to fully participate in training and assessments. Non-native English speakers are expected to hold an English language qualification equivalent to IELTS Level 6.0 or above, or provide evidence of prior education or professional work conducted in English.
  • Additional Requirement: Learners should have access to a reliable internet connection, a computer or smart device, and any necessary software to engage with online, blended, or centre-based learning materials.
  • Centre Requirements: Centres delivering this qualification must ensure they have appropriately qualified and experienced staff, access to up-to-date critical care and clinical nutrition resources, and the facilities required to support high-quality teaching, assessment, and learner success.

This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Nutritional Support in Critical Care (Dip Critical Care Nutrition), consists of 6 mandatory units.

  1. Advanced Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism
  2. Nutritional Assessment in Critical Care Patients
  3. Enteral and Parenteral Nutrition Support
  4. Management of Nutrition-Related Complications
  5. Evidence-Based Practice and Research in Critical Care Nutrition
  6. Professional Ethics, Communication, and Multidisciplinary Collaboration

Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:

Advanced Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism

  • Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of macronutrient and micronutrient metabolism in critically ill patients.
  • Analyse the physiological and biochemical changes during critical illness and their impact on nutritional requirements.
  • Apply advanced nutritional concepts to optimise energy and nutrient delivery in intensive care settings.
  • Critically evaluate current research on metabolism and nutrition in critical care.

Nutritional Assessment in Critical Care Patients

  • Conduct thorough nutritional assessments using validated clinical tools and techniques.
  • Analyse biochemical, anthropometric, and dietary data to identify malnutrition or nutrient deficiencies.
  • Develop personalised nutrition support plans based on patient condition, metabolic status, and clinical guidelines.
  • Evaluate the reliability and limitations of different assessment methods in critically ill populations.

Enteral and Parenteral Nutrition Support

  • Plan, implement, and monitor enteral and parenteral feeding protocols safely and effectively.
  • Identify appropriate feeding routes and formulations according to patient needs and clinical status.
  • Recognise and manage potential complications associated with artificial nutrition support.
  • Apply evidence-based guidelines to optimise patient outcomes.

Management of Nutrition-Related Complications

  • Identify common nutrition-related complications in critically ill patients.
  • Apply problem-solving strategies to manage metabolic, gastrointestinal, and feeding complications.
  • Integrate multidisciplinary approaches to prevent and address clinical challenges.
  • Evaluate the impact of interventions on patient recovery and nutritional status.

Evidence-Based Practice and Research in Critical Care Nutrition

  • Critically appraise scientific literature to inform clinical decision-making.
  • Design and conduct small-scale research or audits relevant to critical care nutrition.
  • Apply statistical and qualitative analysis methods to interpret clinical and research data.
  • Use research findings to develop and improve nutrition support protocols in practice.

Professional Ethics, Communication, and Multidisciplinary Collaboration

  • Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct in all aspects of clinical nutrition practice.
  • Communicate complex nutritional information effectively with patients, families, and healthcare teams.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver coordinated nutrition care.
  • Reflect on professional practice to continually enhance competence and patient outcomes.

The ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Nutritional Support in Critical Care equips learners with specialised knowledge and practical skills essential for advanced clinical practice. Completing this diploma opens a range of professional and academic pathways, enabling learners to enhance their career prospects, contribute to high-quality patient care, and engage in continuing professional development (CPD). This qualification provides the foundation for leadership roles, specialist positions, and further academic study in critical care nutrition and related healthcare fields.

Career Advancement Opportunities

Learners can pursue senior or specialist roles in clinical nutrition and critical care settings, including:

  • Critical Care Nutrition Specialist in hospital or intensive care units (ICUs)
  • Clinical Dietitian or Nutrition Advisor specialising in acute care
  • Critical Care Nurse with advanced nutrition responsibilities
  • Health and Wellness Consultant focusing on nutritional support in clinical settings
  • Trainer or Mentor for healthcare professionals in nutritional support and critical care practices

Academic Progression

This diploma offers a pathway to further study and specialisation:

  • Level 7 postgraduate qualifications in Clinical Nutrition, Critical Care, or Health Sciences
  • Advanced research opportunities in critical care nutrition, metabolic support, or dietetics
  • Professional certifications in specialised areas such as enteral and parenteral nutrition, ICU nutrition, or metabolic care

Professional Development and CPD

The qualification supports ongoing professional growth:

  • Enhances Continuing Professional Development (CPD) through acquisition of advanced skills and knowledge
  • Keeps learners updated with evidence-based clinical nutrition practices and industry standards
  • Strengthens professional credibility and positions learners as experts in critical care nutrition

Entrepreneurial and Consultancy Opportunities

Learners may also explore independent or consultancy roles:

  • Establishing private consultancy services in clinical or critical care nutrition
  • Developing and delivering tailored nutrition education and support programmes for healthcare teams
  • Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to provide integrated patient care solutions

FAQs

This course is designed for learners aiming to specialise in nutritional support within critical care settings. It is ideal for healthcare professionals, including dietitians, nurses, and clinical practitioners, who wish to enhance their knowledge, develop practical skills in enteral and parenteral nutrition, and advance their careers in critical care nutrition.

Learners must be at least 19 years old and ideally hold a Level 5 qualification or equivalent in nutrition, dietetics, nursing, or a related clinical discipline. Prior experience in healthcare or critical care is recommended but not mandatory. Learners must demonstrate English language proficiency (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent) and have access to the required digital resources.

ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Nutritional Support in Critical Care (Dip Critical Care Nutrition) is 60 Credits training program. As this Training program have mandatory assessment which will be conducted through Approved Training Centers.

ICTQual AB allows to offer Level 6 Diploma in Nutritional Support in Critical Care (Dip Critical Care Nutrition) in various formats, including online, in-person, or a combination of both. Participants can choose the format that best fits their schedule and learning preferences. But final decision is made by ATC.

Yes, ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Nutritional Support in Critical Care (Dip Critical Care Nutrition) consist of 6 mandatory assessments . These assessments are designed to evaluate participants’ comprehension of course material and their capacity to apply concepts in practical situations. It is mandatory to pass assessments with a minimum score of 75%