Physiological Sciences

Profile of clinical neurophysiology

Clinical neurophysiology is one of the disciplines included in the healthcare science professions. Neurophysiologists are specialist practitioners who investigate the function of the nervous system in order to diagnose and monitor neurological disorders. Investigations are carried out in dedicated environments, in intensive care settings and in the operating theatres and require close communications with patients of all ages and the multidisciplinary team. Clinical neurophysiology provides an innovative career pathway which encourages lifelong development. Neurophysiology is a fast growing area of development where increasingly high technology and computerisation are employed, but where practitioners still work very closely with patients and the medical profession. Neurophysiologists need to possess a sympathetic manner to deal with patients of all ages and their carers. They require excellent communication skills, with the ability to provide support and reassurance to people of all abilities, who may feel frightened or vulnerable. A high degree of accuracy and careful attention to detail are important qualities for neurophysiologists.

Scope of Service Delivery

Neurophysiology is usually based in hospitals and linked to neurological centres. Departments vary in the number and type of investigations carried out. Some of the more specialised techniques that may be carried out include:

• Long-term ambulatory EEG monitoring
• Telemetry
• Sleep studies
• Monitoring during surgical procedures
  

Entry Requirements

Two 'A' levels at grade C minimum in science based subjects, which may include Mathematics or A first Degree (Hons) in a science based subject.

Education and Training

‘A' level entry will require a 4-year training period leading to a BSc Honours Degree in Clinical Physiology (Neurophysiology). This is usually a four-year vocational degree course, which can be accessed in various parts of the country on either a part or full time basis. During the 4-year training period, the student practitioner will be salaried.

For first-degree entrants to the profession, top-up courses will be provided and will be dependent on the entrant's prior knowledge. Practical training and assessment will be required to become a qualified basic practitioner.