Graduate Certificate courses and single subjects. Postgraduate Studies 2015

Transcription

1 Graduate Certificate courses and single subjects Postgraduate Studies 2015

2 ACN Advancing nurse leadership Australian College of Nursing (ACN) is the national professional organisation for all nurse leaders: Nurses with an interest in leadership. Nurses aspiring to leadership roles. Nurses in leadership roles across the Australian health system. ACN is an advocate for the nursing profession, advancing the skills and expertise of nurses to provide leadership in their contribution to the policy, practice and delivery of health care. To learn more: w: e: p: * *call charges may apply

3 Contents ACN contacts 2 Foreword 3 ACN membership 4 ACN education 6 Course information 7 Eligibility criteria 11 Enrolments 12 NSW Ministry of Health-supported places 14 Important dates 15 Fees and payments 16 Graduate Certificate courses 19 Acute Care Nursing 21 Aged Care Nursing 24 Breast Cancer Nursing 26 Cancer Nursing 28 Child and Family Health Nursing 30 Critical Care Nursing 33 Drug and Alcohol Nursing 35 Leadership and Management 37 Musculoskeletal and Rheumatology Nursing 39 Neonatal Nursing 41 Nursing Practice 44 Orthopaedic Nursing 47 Paediatric Nursing Studies 49 Perioperative Nursing 53 Stomal Therapy Nursing 55 Subject descriptors 57 Postgraduate Studies 2015

4 ACN contacts Course information and enrolment t: freecall: (charges may apply) f: e: Library t: f: e: Membership t: freecall: (charges may apply) f: e: ACN corporate partners With thanks to the support of our corporate partners Corporate partner Insurance partner All information in this handbook is correct at the time of publishing and is subject to change without notice Australian College of Nursing Published by Australian College of Nursing 1 Napier Close, Deakin ACT 2600 t: canberra@acn.edu.au ABN < 2 > Postgraduate Studies 2015

5 Foreword I am pleased to present the Australian College of Nursing (ACN) Postgraduate Studies 2015 Graduate Certificate courses and single subjects handbook. ACN is a Higher Education Provider, registered and accredited by the Tertiary Education Quality Standards Agency (TEQSA) Australia s independent national regulator of the higher education sector. The past twelve months have seen the awarding of seven years accreditation of 15 graduate certificate (GC) courses to ACN by TEQSA. This handbook contains an overview of each of the 15 GC courses and nearly 80 subjects offered by ACN as well as subject overviews, important dates and how to apply. Students may study the GC courses to achieve a tertiary award in their specialty or may choose to study single subjects. Single subjects will enable students to develop in-depth knowledge in a specific subject area. Most single subjects studied may be credited towards a GC. ACN courses are offered in both distance education (DE) and online modes, allowing students the flexibility to study while balancing work and family life. All students are fully supported by education staff and tutors who are committed to facilitating the learning experience. If you are a member of ACN you may receive substantial reductions in course fees as well as the entitlement to a range of discounts on ACN products and services and access to the Katie Zepps Library, the largest dedicated nursing library in the Southern Hemisphere. Our specialist library staff will provide you with electronic access to books, journals, database searches, interlibrary loans and much more. For more details about all other ACN educational opportunities, please visit our website at Adjunct Professor Debra Thoms FACN (DLF) Chief Executive Officer Postgraduate Studies 2015 < 3 >

6 ACN membership ACN is the national professional organisation for all nurse leaders: Nurses with an interest in leadership, nurses aspiring to leadership roles and nurses in leadership roles across the Australian health system. The leadership capabilities of all nurses play a critical role in the delivery of health services to the Australian community. ACN is an advocate for the nursing profession, advancing the skills and expertise of nurses to provide leadership in their contribution to the policy, practice and delivery of health care. ACN encourages and supports nurses to develop and grow to become nurse leaders who are able to contribute by providing professional, economic and health perspectives. General benefits > ACN Fellows and Members may use the postnominals applicable to their membership category. > ACN publications (free of charge subscriptions to The Hive and Collegian) and regular updates and newsletters. > Discount on ACN CE courses, ACN conferences and ACN CPD workshops. > ACN Grants and Awards. > Access to 3LP (ACN s Life Long Learning Program), a web-based health care learning environment for ACN members that: - assists nurses to develop and maintain the highest standards of professional excellence - encourages nurses to plan, implement and evaluate their professional development - assists nurses in maintaining a customised professional e-portfolio. > Access to the largest dedicated nursing library in the Southern Hemisphere, the Katie Zepps Nursing Library for database and literature search services both on location or online. > Various discount opportunities for members including Guild Insurance for professional liability, Toga Hospitality, and Elsevier Australia. < 4 > Postgraduate Studies 2015

7 Regional, national and global professional activities ACN has a presence in regional, national and international activities, providing members with a range of opportunities to represent, influence and advance nursing. ACN provides members with the opportunity to: > Connect with nurses in their geographical area through ACN s Regions and in their area of expertise through ACN s Communities of Interest networks. > Network at ACN events, expos and member only events. > Save with lower member registration fees for ACN events. > Liaise with other health industry and professional organisations. > Provide input on nursing professional and political issues. > Engage in advocacy at state and federal levels with health departments and ministers. > Contribute to policy and discussion papers on issues that affect the nursing profession. > Access comprehensive historical and archival collections. > Raise their professional profile through representing ACN on relevant committees. > Stay abreast of international issues as ACN is a member of the International Council of Nurses and represents Australian nurses in international nursing policy development and reform. For more information on membership benefits, categories and fees please call ACN s membership team on freecall or check out the membership section on the website: Fees are listed in the membership brochure and application form online. Postgraduate Studies 2015 < 5 >

8 ACN education Graduate Certificate courses and single subjects Our GC courses prepare nurses for a rewarding career in the health and community services sector. We offer coursework programs that are academically challenging and professionally relevant, in an environment that encourages independent learning and interaction amongst peers, supported by tutors and nurse educators. The courses provide the knowledge, skills and attitudes directly suited to working in specialist areas of health care and are designed to meet contemporary industry needs. GC qualifications awarded by ACN are of an equivalent standard to qualifications at other Australian higher education institutions, including universities. ACN s courses may be recognised by universities, enabling advanced standing towards higher degrees, under the Australian Qualifications Framework. Students have the option of undertaking a single subject from our GC courses. Continuing Professional Development program ACN offers an extensive range of short courses that attract continuing professional development (CPD) hours. The CPD calendar and handbook are published twice a year in January and June, and are available at To request s updating you on upcoming CPD courses contact studentservices@acn.edu.au. Registered Training Organisation courses Other courses offered by ACN include nationally-accredited training courses, such as Certificate IV in Training and Assessment and courses for enrolled nurses. Further information on these courses is available at or by contacting studentservices@acn.edu.au. < 6 > Postgraduate Studies 2015

9 Course information Course delivery and attendance ACN offers a flexible learning environment, with modes of delivery including DE online, face-to-face and professional experience placements. ACN s online learning platform is CNnect and can be accessed via login and password at via Education > Current students or directly at cnnect.acn.edu. au. Students should confirm with ACN, the dates and times for any face-to-face workshop sessions and professional experience placements prior to making any leave or travel arrangements. Subjects All the GC subjects are supported by subject specific learning guides, resources, the virtual online classroom and relevant, work related assessment. Students have the option of undertaking a single subject from our GC courses. This is useful for people who wish to develop in-depth knowledge in a specific subject area, or those who want to sample a GC subject prior to enrolling in a full GC course. Not all GC subjects are offered as a single subject option. Relevant subjects that have been satisfactorily completed as single subjects may be credited towards up to 50 per cent of a GC (subject to entry requirements, satisfactory academic performance and timely enrolment in a GC course). Structure of courses The GC courses are professional development programs for nurses currently employed in the health care sector. They are designed to be undertaken part-time. In order to graduate, students must successfully complete all the requirements for the course. The courses are usually structured around a number of core (compulsory), specialty and elective subjects. Each GC course comprises of four subjects, each equivalent to 150 student hours and worth six credit points (total of 24 credit points). Usual part-time progression means students study two subjects each semester. Students wishing to vary this study pattern need to do so in accordance with the Student Management Policy. Course duration Normal course duration is conducted over two 20-week semesters; two subjects per semester. A single subject comprises 150 hours over one semester. Postgraduate Studies 2015 < 7 >

10 Workload It is recommended that students study hours per week. The actual amount of time will be determined by individual learning needs and the sequence of assessment items. Course sequence The core, specialty and elective subjects indicated for each course are found at ACN website edu.au/postgraduate, under Education > Future students > Postgraduate courses tab. Courses are designed to build and develop students skills and knowledge. As the student progresses through the course they are encouraged to think more widely and more critically. All students at this level are required to demonstrate an understanding of evidence-based practice and basic research principles. Students are responsible to check their enrolment is correct regarding the sequence of subjects, prerequisites and co-requisites as required for their specific GC. Course completion Students must satisfy all the stipulated requirements for their course and pay any outstanding debts to be eligible to complete their course. Students are advised to contact Student Services for further advice or assistance with determining and confirming their eligibility for completion. GC courses must be completed within three years. Student resources ACN requires all students to have a current address and access to a computer and the Internet. Recommended minimum system requirements PC 512MB RAM 6GB HDD 300MHz Processor 1280 X 1024 resolution display preferred (notebooks may operate on other resolutions) Windows XP or later operating system CD/DVD drive Speakers (either inbuilt or external) and microphone (preferably external) Internet Explorer 10 plus or Firefox or Chrome Ability to save file in Microsoft Office format Mac 512MB RAM 6GB HDD Intel based processor 1280 X 1024 display OSX 10.5.x or later CD/DVD drive Speakers (either inbuilt or external) and microphone (preferably external) Safari or Firefox or Chrome Ability to save file in Microsoft Office format < 8 > Postgraduate Studies 2015

11 CNnect IT support ACN provides CNnect IT support for students (during business hours) to assist them to access and utilise CNnect. On CNnect, you will find the Student Management Policy, resources, discussion forums, links to websites, study and assessment timetables and subject information and assessment books relevant to your course. Contact details for CNnect IT support can be found on the CNnect website at cnnect.acn. edu.au. Study skills workshops Students are encouraged to attend the writing and study skills workshops conducted during February and July each year. The half-day workshops include valuable information on academic writing, referencing and assessments. Further details are available on the website, or by contacting Student Services via Katie Zepps Library As an ACN student, you also have access to the library. Workshop/subject/course cancellation ACN reserves the right to cancel a workshop/subject/course if there are insufficient enrolments. A full refund will be made of all fees paid. Where subjects are unavailable in a GC course, students may be required to choose an alternative elective subject or defer to the next semester where the subject is offered. A decision to cancel a workshop/subject/course will be made ten working days prior to workshop/subject/course commencement and students will be notified of their options. Advanced standing/recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and credit transfer Applications for advanced standing/rpl and credit transfer must be made in writing on application to the course and must include supporting documentation. Advanced standing/rpl and credit transfer cannot be sought for more than 50% of a GC course. Students seeking advanced standing/rpl* and credit transfer on any basis other than ACN subjects will be charged a fee. Successful applications will have fees adjusted as determined by ACN. Students who have been granted advanced standing for ACN subjects leading to an exemption from one subject (six credit points), will not be charged for the subject. Credit transfer will generally only apply for studies undertaken within the last five years. *Fees may apply. Postgraduate Studies 2015 < 9 >

12 Transcripts Students receive their Academic Transcript free of charge on completion of all the requirements of their course. There is a charge for the issue of a replacement ACN testamur and award certificates. Contact Student Services for details. Library fines Fines imposed by the library will result in the imposition of sanctions and may halt your progression within a course. These sanctions remain until such time as proof is received that the debt has been paid. If a sanction is imposed, a student is: > not permitted to receive a result in any course or subject completed > not permitted to enrol, re-enrol or vary enrolment in any course or subject completed > not permitted to graduate from any course or receive a transcript or testamur. ACN policies and guidelines The policies and guidelines of ACN have been written to provide guidance on the responsibilities of students to their studies. Students should read and be familiar with the policies and guidelines, especially the Student Management Policy, which can be found on our website at Student complaints and appeals ACN is committed to providing a learning and working environment in which complaints are responded to promptly, with minimum distress and maximum protection to all parties. All students and staff have a responsibility to contribute to the achievement of a productive, safe and equitable study and work environment. The Student Management Policy outlines what a complaint or grievance is and contains information about how to make a complaint or appeal and the process associated with appeals. < 10 > Postgraduate Studies 2015

13 Eligibility criteria Admission to GC courses is based on academic merit and selection. In addition, applicants must satisfy any prerequisites or additional requirements specified for particular courses, including ACN s general eligibility criteria. General eligibility criteria All applicants seeking admission to GC courses and single subjects are required to: > hold a Bachelor of Nursing or registered nurse* equivalent qualification. > be currently registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) or the equivalent registering authority in your country of origin > have a minimum of one year postgraduate experience > be currently employed in an appropriate clinical setting. * For single subject enrolment, consideration may be given for applicants who are not registered nurses on an individual basis. Professional experience placement (clinical placement) requirements Clinical placements are a significant and sometimes mandatory component of a number of courses at ACN. For these courses, all students will be required to obtain the following, prior to placements commencing: > Undertake a National Criminal Record Check. > Show proof of vaccination and immunisations relevant to the state or territory where the clinical placement is being undertaken. > Satisfy and comply with any other requirements (Working with children check, Student Declarations, Code of Conduct, etc.) needed by the individual health facilities and relevant to the state or territory government s facilities where the professional experience placement is being undertaken. All clinical placements must be arranged by ACN. The student is responsible for any fees and costs associated with meeting the mandatory requirements outlined above. Students who require more information on this should contact clinicalplacement@acn.edu.au. International applicants International applicants will need to provide evidence of proficiency in English. Enrolment in, or successful completion of, a course at ACN does not entitle students to practice nursing in Australia. Students wishing to practice nursing in Australia must seek registration and/or assessment for eligibility to register through the NMBA. Postgraduate Studies 2015 < 11 >

14 Enrolments Enrolments for GC courses and single subjects are made through Student Services. Application forms can be obtained online at How to apply 1. Seek course advice If you would like advice on which course you should attend or whether you meet the selection criteria for a particular course, please refer to the course descriptions on the website at or contact the Course Coordinator or Student Services at ACN on freecall (charges may apply) or Submit an application form Available on the website at Forward the completed form to ACN before the closing date (where vacancies exist, late enrolments may also be considered). 3. Await confirmation of enrolment letter Following the closing date for a course, the Course Coordinator and the Course Selection Committee will review enrolments. Successful applicants will be sent a confirmation of enrolment letter detailing any outstanding payment, dates, venue and course requirements. 4. Accept your position Your position must be accepted in writing. Students are required to return the signed and completed Acceptance of Position form to confirm their place (sent with confirmation of enrolment letter). Students wishing to withdraw or defer after submitting an acceptance of position MUST notify ACN in writing and before the census date. < 12 > Postgraduate Studies 2015

15 Deferred enrolment Students who have requested a deferral are sent a letter of confirmation detailing the dates and subjects that they have deferred into. Please be advised that NSW Ministry of Health (MOH)-supported students are generally unable to defer. Re-enrolling in courses and subjects will incur a recommencement fee and will occur only after the student to complete section of the confirmation of deferral letter has been returned. Enrolment in subjects Following admission, students are required to identify the subjects that will constitute their enrolment. Please refer to the course outlines at for the core/elective/specialty subjects for GC courses. Correct enrolment in subjects is the responsibility of the student. Additions and deletions can be made to an enrolment by contacting Student Services before the Census Date. Failure to notify ACN of withdrawal from a subject before the Census Date can result in subject failure and incurs financial liability. Students should be aware that it is their responsibility to notify Student Services to ensure that: > their personal details, postal address and contact telephone numbers are correct, and that ACN is informed of any changes as they occur > their enrolment details are correct > they are registered into activities (online, CNnect, etc.) > their subject enrolment is consistent with the completion rules of the course. Postgraduate Studies 2015 < 13 >

16 NSW Ministry of Health-supported places Nurses employed by the NSW MOH who meet the eligibility criteria can apply for GC courses that are supported by NSW MOH. These positions are not available for those on 457 visas and those employed on casual basis. How to apply 1. Seek course advice Please refer to the course descriptions on the website at or contact the Course Coordinator or Student Services at ACN on freecall (charges may apply). 2. Complete the NSW MOH application Available from your nursing administration or on the website at Both you and your Nursing Unit Manager must complete the relevant sections and forward the application form to your Director of Nursing and Midwifery, by the advertised closing date. Priorities will be assigned to applicants by the Local Health District/Network, based on Local Health District/Network needs. 3. Submit an application form The completed application will be forwarded to ACN by the Local Health District/Network before the closing date (where vacancies exist, late enrolments may also be considered). 4. Student selection A panel compromising ACN and NSW MOH representatives will convene in November and June of each year to determine student selection for NSW MOH-supported courses. Selection is made according to the priorities and workforce needs of Local Health Districts/ Networks (provided the applicant meets the course admission criteria). 5. Await confirmation of selection letter Following student selection, successful applicants will be sent a Confirmation of Selection Letter, detailing requirements for accepting the offer. Directors of Nursing and Midwifery at the Local Health Districts/ Networks are advised in writing of the outcomes within one week of the selection process occurring. 6. Accept your position Your position must be accepted in writing. Students are required to return the signed and completed Acceptance of Position form to confirm their place (sent with confirmation of selection letter). Please note: NSW MOH-supported students generally cannot defer and students are expected to complete the course within 12 months. < 14 > Postgraduate Studies 2015

17 Important dates ACN is required to set a Census Date for each course it offers. The Census Date is: > the date students become financially liable for any subjects in which they are enrolled > the final day students can withdraw from a subject without financial liability (minus an administrative fee) and academic penalty > the final day ACN is allowed to accept upfront payments for full fee paying students. For more detailed information on semester dates see the appropriate GC course page on the website at Academic calendar 09 Feb 26 Jun 2015 SEMESTER (FEB) 31 Oct 2014 Closing date for 2015 Semester (Feb) enrolments for NSW MOH-supported applicants 9 Jan 2015 Closing date for 2015 Semester (Feb) enrolments for all other Graduate Certificate applicants 9 Feb 2015 Semester (Feb) commences 20 Feb 2015 Census Date Semester (Feb) (5 pm) 27 Mar 2015 Closing date for Semester (July) new enrolments for NSW MOH-supported applicants 5 Jun 2015 Closing date for 2015 Semester (July) new enrolments for all other Graduate Certificate applicants 26 Jun 2015 Semester (Feb) ends 27 Jul 2015 Semester (Feb) grade release day 27 Jul 11 Dec 2015 SEMESTER (JULY) 27 Jul 2015 Semester (July) commences 7 Aug 2015 Census Date Semester (July) (5 pm) 16 Oct 2015 Closing date for 2016 Semester (Feb) enrolments for NSW MOH-supported applicants 11 Dec 2015 Semester (July) ends 18 Jan 2016 Semester (July) grade release day 8 Jan 2016 Closing date for 2016 Semester (Feb) enrolments for all other Graduate Certificate applicants 8 Feb 2016 Semester (FEB) commences Postgraduate Studies 2015 < 15 >

18 Fees and payments The course fee covers education materials, educator/tutor support and assessment marking where applicable. The course fee also has an administration fee included. Course fees do not cover the supply of recommended and prescribed texts, or salary supplementation for face-to-face components. Course fees may be tax deductible. Speak with your tax advisor for further details. Course fees are payable on acceptance of a position in a course. Students have the option of paying in full or part payments; full, up-front payments will receive a discount. See below for payment options. > Up-front will mean a total of $5,750; each subject costing $1,438. > Two subjects per semester will mean a total payment of $6,050; each subject costing $1,513. > One subject per semester will mean a total of $7,000; each subject costing $1,750. > All payments are due four weeks before the start of each subject. > Failure to pay course fees by course commencement date will result in the cancellation of course enrolment. > All requests to withdraw from a course/subject must be made in writing to ACN. > All students will be required to pay a recommencement fee if their program of study is varied due to extenuating circumstances. > All courses are subject to a non-refundable accounting fee. < 16 > Postgraduate Studies 2015

19 Upfront fee schedule ACN offers a discount to students who pay the course fee upfront. These discounted prices are effective from 1 January 2015 and were correct at the time of printing; however, fees are subject to change without notice. Please enquire about course fees at the time of application. All fees are in Australian Dollars (AUD). Type of course Non-refundable administration fee Fee balance Total course fee with discount Graduate Certificate courses for $ $5, $5, students residing in Australia Graduate Certificate courses for $ $5, $6, students living overseas Single subjects $ $1, $1, How to pay Payment details can be submitted on a Course Application Form via Visa and MasterCard or by sending a cheque or money order. Payments via EFTPOS can be made by contacting Student Services or the Sydney office accounts department. Online banking is also available. Payment details will be on your invoice. ACN also offers a Payment Plan Option, with flexibility in fee payment choices available to eligible students. It means that you may be able to pay your tuition fees via instalments. Students are reminded that fees are payable in advance. Students supported through scholarship or alternative arrangements must submit these details on application. GC applicants will be invoiced. Single subject applicants are requested to make payment on application. Refund policy Applicants are advised to familiarise themselves with the Cancellations and Refunds Policy at edu.au/policies. Postgraduate Studies 2015 < 17 >

20 Withdrawal from a course or subject Notification of a student s intention to withdraw either before or after the commencement of a course/ subject must be made in writing. Withdrawal by telephone or by implication is not acceptable under any circumstances. Withdrawals prior to Census Date are subject to a non-refundable administrative fee as outlined in the fee schedule. If withdrawal occurs after Census Date there is no refund. See the Student Management Policy and the Cancellations and Refunds Policy at Recommencement fees A recommencement fee is charged when a student has been granted deferral and is wanting to reenrol. This fee covers the administration involved with re-enrolling, contracting a tutor and marker and the ongoing support required for students. Re-enrolment to a course will only occur once the recommencement fee is paid. Students supported by way of scholarship or NSW MOH are also liable for this fee. Collection of unpaid fees Students with outstanding fees who have received notification of the amount owing will be referred to the appropriate debt recovery agency for recovery action. Please note that students will be liable for recovery costs incurred. < 18 > Postgraduate Studies 2015

21 Graduate Certificate courses

22 Graduate Certificate courses All GC course information and subject descriptors can be found on the website at Graduate Certificate Acute care nursing Aged care nursing Breast cancer nursing Cancer nursing Child and family health nursing Critical care nursing Drug and alcohol nursing Leadership and management Musculoskeletal and rheumatology nursing Neonatal nursing Nursing practice Orthopaedic nursing Paediatric nursing studies Perioperative nursing Stomal therapy nursing Please note: courses/subjects may not be available as advertised each semester Semester available Medical/surgical stream (Feb and July) Renal stream (Feb and July) (Feb only) (July only) (Feb and July) (Feb and July) Cardiac stream (Feb and July) Emergency stream (Feb and July) Intensive care stream (Feb and July) (July only) (Feb and July) (July only) Intensive care stream (Feb only) Special care stream (Feb only) (Feb only) (Feb only) General stream (Feb and July) Emergency stream (Feb and July) Oncology stream (July only) Intensive care stream (Feb only) Child and adolescent mental health stream (July only) (Feb only) (July only) < 20 > Postgraduate Studies 2015

23 Graduate Certificate in Acute Care Nursing Award GradCertAcuteCareNurs Course code Mode of delivery Course duration Distance education/online Two semesters at 20 weeks/semester February intake July intake Course dates 9 February 2015 to 11 Dec July 2015 to 24 June 2016 NSW Health supported course Course overview The Graduate Certificate in Acute Care Nursing is designed to enhance the skills of nurses across a broad number of disciplines. This course provides registered nurses with the knowledge and skills as a specialist in acute care nursing practice. The content is directed to participants current roles, directions and career aspirations and equips participants with the knowledge, skills and attitudes needed to deal confidently with the diverse nature of health care and the multifactorial nature of illness and illness prevention. The Graduate Certificate in Acute Care Nursing offers two specialist streams: Medical/surgical nursing The focus of learning in this medical/surgical (generalist) stream is the nursing management of adults admitted to health care facilities with acute episodic medical-surgical conditions. Students analyse and apply their knowledge and problem-solving skills to clinical case scenarios based on commonly encountered medical-surgical problems. The subjects provide students with an opportunity to extend their ability to undertake increasingly complex nursing activities in a range of medical and surgical care settings. Students study three core subjects and select one elective subject. Renal nursing This stream offers opportunities for the registered nurse to enhance their knowledge and clinical expertise to the level required in a specialised renal environment. The course focuses on adults experiencing alterations in renal function and provides a comprehensive theoretical platform with a strong clinical focus. It encompasses a problem solving approach to the management of patients in all stages of chronic kidney disease and acute kidney injury. There is particular focus on systematic renal assessment, pre-dialysis preparation, renal replacement therapies, and contemporary trends in renal nursing. Please note to undertake this stream students must be working in a haemodialysis unit. Students select four core subjects. Postgraduate Studies 2015 < 21 >

24 Learning outcomes At successful completion of the course students should be able to: 1. demonstrate provision of competent interpersonal and clinical care to patients through the acquisition, application and communication of specialist knowledge and skills which reflect professional and ethico-legal integrity 2. identify, appraise and apply research evidence to inform nursing practice and develop professional responsibility and accountability commensurate with the specialist role 3. critically evaluate available knowledge in relation to complex situations to guide the assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation of evidence-based nursing care 4. collaborate with the multidisciplinary team in provision of effective therapeutic relationships and continuity of care within the context of acute care nursing practice 5. consider strategies when caring for a culturally and linguistically diverse population and reflect on the health care team s ability to meet the nursing and communication needs of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people 6. create an effective clinical learning environment through demonstrating mentorship and the propagation of specialised knowledge and technical skill 7. demonstrate leadership through participation in policy development, service provision and quality improvement within the specialist context. Graduate outcomes Graduates of this course will: > enhance their professional, social and ethical understanding in a specialist area of practice > extend their general theoretical preparation in nursing knowledge and research to apply skills in clinical decision making and prioritisation in the acute care nursing environment > provide leadership and exert a positive influence on the health of the community and workplace > reflect on learning experiences, including an analysis of their own learning needs and outcomes to develop lifelong learning in the context of specialist nursing practice. < 22 > Postgraduate Studies 2015

25 Eligibility General eligibility requirements outlined on page 11 AND Renal nursing stream applicants must be currently employed in a haemodialysis setting AND professional experience placement requirements on page 11 for relevant subjects, as listed below. Subjects Streams Subject code Subject name Medical/ surgical 277 Stress response and health breakdown C C 038 Principles of acute care nursing C 115 Principles of renal nursing E C 233 Principles of renal replacement therapy E C 920 Professional practice in acute care nursing C C 036 Respiratory nursing E 050 Wound management E 054 Assessment of the older person E 092 Symptom management in advanced disease states E 113 Assessing and managing adult pain E 117 Principles of infection control E 187 Communication applied strategies for health care professionals E 243 Medical imaging E Renal C=Core E=Elective Postgraduate Studies 2015 < 23 >

26 Graduate Certificate in Aged Care Nursing Award GradCertAgedCareNurs Course code Mode of delivery Course duration Distance education/online Two semesters at 20 weeks/semester February intake Course dates 9 February 2015 to 11 Dec 2015 NSW Health supported course Course overview The Graduate Certificate in Aged Care Nursing studies the complex needs of the older person being cared for within diverse health care environments. The aim of this course is to strengthen and develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes of nurses caring for the older adult. The course provides an advanced grounding in methods of research, in addition to developing the theoretical and practical aspects of management, clinical practice and education in aged care nursing. The single subjects in this course draw upon the student s nursing experience in aged care and combine this experience with theory, current research and best practice guidelines to enhance the student s specialist knowledge and skills, critical thinking and analysis abilities and clinical decision-making within aged care environments. Learning outcomes At successful completion of the course students should be able to: 1. integrate specialist knowledge, assessment skills and information to support an improved standard of client care 2. demonstrate enhanced clinical decision making skills using multiple modes of enquiry and collaborative approaches 3. establish and maintain effective therapeutic relationships with aged care clients, families, professional colleagues and stakeholders 4. demonstrate professional leadership and educational skills 5. critically analyse literature and develop evidence-based practice in aged care 6. promote the aged care nurse s role within the multidisciplinary team 7. advocate for aged care clients within all aged care environments. < 24 > Postgraduate Studies 2015

27 Graduate outcomes This course is designed to provide graduates with critical, analytical and integrative thinking skills to extend their problem solving and clinical decision making abilities. Graduates of this course will: > develop skills in locating, appraising and integrating information from research and nursing practice, providing them with a foundation for evidence-based nursing > extend their knowledge, skills and attitudes within their context of practice by adopting lifelong learning and reflective practice philosophies > enhance their professional, social and ethical understanding of contemporary aged care nursing practice. Eligibility General eligibility requirements and professional experience placement requirements are outlined on page 11. Subjects Subject Subject name code 054 Assessment of the older person C 055 Clinical issues in the care of the older person C 903 Professional issues in aged care nursing C 045* Continence management E 050 Wound management E 053 Healthy ageing E 064 Dementia care E 113 Assessing and managing adult pain E 117 Principles of infection control E C=Core E=Elective *Special considerations/mandatory requirements 045 Professional experience placement 40hrs Postgraduate Studies 2015 < 25 >

28 Graduate Certificate in Breast Cancer Nursing Award GradCertBreastCancerNurs Course code Mode of delivery Course duration Distance education/online Two semesters at 20 weeks/semester July intake Course dates 27 July 2015 to 24 June 2016 Scholarships are made available by the McGrath Foundation to study this course. Course overview This course is designed to provide graduates with the principles of breast cancer nursing in order to improve their knowledge and skills for the provision and coordination of evidence-based breast cancer care. The aim is to encourage professional and ethical understanding of clinical practice development for the improvement of patient outcomes. The course aligns with the Specialist Breast Nurse Competency Standards and associated educational requirements (NBCC 2005) and the National Professional Development Framework for Cancer Nursing (EdCaN 2009). It responds to industry requirements by preparing graduates for specialist breast cancer nursing roles within the wide scope of breast cancer care. Through critical analysis and reflection students are given the opportunity to evaluate their clinical and educational requirements to promote professional development for specialist breast cancer nursing care and lifelong learning. The course also supports development in clinical leadership roles such as clinical nurse specialists, clinical nurse consultants or breast cancer nurse coordinators. The course focus includes the continuum of breast cancer care, evidence-based practice, future trends and the impact of breast cancer on individuals, their families and communities. Learning outcomes This course is designed to develop an understanding of breast cancer nursing with a strong clinical focus. It enables students to: 1. demonstrate specialist knowledge that informs evidence-based breast cancer nursing practice for the provision and coordination of patient care 2. develop specialist clinical practice and advance their clinical decision making skills for the assessment and management of patients with breast cancer 3. engage in and maintain effective therapeutic relationships with patients, their significant others and other members of the multidisciplinary care team < 26 > Postgraduate Studies 2015

29 4. develop professional and educational leadership skills to provide support for other clinicians and provide an overall contribution to the multi-disciplinary breast cancer care team 5. critically analyse current literature and nursing practice to provide evidence-based contemporary care for patients diagnosed with breast cancer 6. examine their ability to reflect on personal and professional values and attitudes in relation to the care of patients with breast cancer and their families and carers. Graduate outcomes Graduates from this course will be recognised as having specialist knowledge relevant to breast cancer. Graduates of this course will: > contribute to the community of breast cancer nursing at a specialist level > provide professional and ethical understanding in practice development > demonstrate critical analysis and reflection to become lifelong learners in the specialty of breast cancer nursing. Eligibility General eligibility requirements outlined on page 11. Subjects Subject Subject name code 112 Breast cancers C 279 Breast cancer treatments C 280 Continuum of care in breast cancer nursing C 092 Symptom management in advanced disease states E 187 Communication applied strategies for health care professionals E 217 Chemotherapy and other systemic treatments in cancer care E 916* Professional practice in breast cancer nursing E 113 Assessing and managing adult pain E C=Core E=Elective *Includes optional Breast Cancer Nursing Practicum Postgraduate Studies 2015 < 27 >

30 Graduate Certificate in Cancer Nursing Award GradCertCancerNurs Course code Mode of delivery Course duration Distance education/online Two semesters at 20 weeks/semester February intake July intake Course dates 9 February 2015 to 11 Dec July 2015 to 24 June 2016 NSW Health supported course Course overview This course is designed to provide graduates with the principles of cancer nursing to improve knowledge and skills for the provision and coordination of evidence-based cancer care. The aim is to encourage professional and ethical understanding of clinical practice development for the improvement of patient outcomes. The course aligns with the National Professional Development Framework for Cancer Nursing (EdCaN 2009) and responds to industry requirements for flexible multifaceted practitioners who are able to practice in various cancer environments as well as preparing graduates for specialist cancer nursing roles within the wide scope of cancer nursing. Students engage in the planning, development and evaluation of their own clinical and educational requirements to promote lifelong learning through critical analysis and reflection of their student experiences. Graduates can use their extended knowledge in clinical specialties to develop their career pathway and can go on to seek employment in various specialist cancer nursing areas and leadership roles such as clinical nurse specialists, clinical nurse consultants or cancer nurse coordinators. The focus is on evidence-based practice for the prevention, diagnosis, pathology and treatments of cancer. The continuum of care is addressed from a multidisciplinary team approach from diagnosis, primary care to include follow-up care, survivorship and palliative care. Future treatment trends and the exploration of the impact on the individual, family and community are included. Learning outcomes This course is designed to develop an understanding of cancer nursing with a strong clinical focus. It enables students to: 1. demonstrate a specialist knowledge base within cancer nursing for the provision and coordination of cancer care 2. develop specialist clinical practice and advance their clinical decision making skills in the assessment and management of patients with cancer < 28 > Postgraduate Studies 2015

31 3. engage in and maintain effective therapeutic relationships with patients, their significant others and other members of the multidisciplinary care team 4. implement professional, educational and leadership skills to provide support for other clinicians and provide an overall contribution to the multi-disciplinary health care team 5. critically analyse current literature and nursing practice to provide evidence-based contemporary care for patients 6. examine their ability to reflect on personal and professional values and attitudes in relation to the care of patients with cancer and their families and carers. Graduate outcomes Graduates from this course will be recognised as having specialist knowledge relevant to cancer and haematology nursing. Graduates of this course will: > contribute to the community of cancer nursing at a specialist level > provide professional and ethical understanding in practice development > demonstrate critical analysis and reflection to become lifelong learners in cancer nursing practice. Eligibility General eligibility requirements outlined on page 11. Subjects Subject Subject name Cancer code 277 Stress response and health breakdown C 217 Chemotherapy and other systemic treatments in cancer care C 917 Professional practice in cancer nursing C 092 Symptom management in advanced disease states E 112 Breast cancers E 113 Assessing and managing adult pain E 185 Haematology nursing E 186 Blood and marrow transplantation E 187 Communication applied strategies for health care professionals E C=Core E=Elective Postgraduate Studies 2015 < 29 >

32 Graduate Certificate in Child and Family Health Nursing Award GradCertChild&FamilyHealthNurs Course code Mode of delivery Course duration Distance education/online/professional experience placement Two semesters at 20 weeks/semester February intake July intake Course dates 9 February 2015 to 11 Dec July 2015 to 24 June 2016 NSW Health supported course Course overview The Graduate Certificate in Child and Family Health Nursing (CFHN) aims to provide nurses with a sound understanding of child and family health nursing within a legal, moral and ethical framework that reflects current models of care and government policy and practice initiatives. The course is designed to engage students in the planning and evaluation of their own clinical and educational needs in an environment conducive to their learning and development to prepare them for work in this specialty nursing field. Contemporary CFHN practice is influenced by a global paradigm shift in CFHN knowledge, practice and theory. Research into infant mental health and brain development, the influences of the family, relationships and environment on the developing child and the importance of the early years of a child s life have all led to changes in the world view of child health and wellbeing. Assessing and facilitating child and family health and wellbeing within a culturally diverse Australian society requires an appreciation of the bio-psychosocial, cultural and emotional needs of the family, and the promotion of a nurturing and supportive environment in which children can thrive. Nurses working, or intending to work, in the specialty of CFHN require an in-depth understanding of primary health care and health promotion, family dynamics, structure and function, and consideration of the connections between the family, their community and health care providers. Health and developmental surveillance of infants and young children continues to be a major focus of contemporary CFHN services, but the expert model of the past has been replaced by a family partnership model that focuses on the provision of psychosocial support and for new parents as well as continuing to be a central point of access for families into community health services. < 30 > Postgraduate Studies 2015

33 Learning outcomes This course is designed to develop specific learning outcomes. Students will: 1. demonstrate the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to practice in the specialty of child and family health nursing that is benchmarked against professional child and family health nursing practice standards 2. develop an understanding of best practice models, policies and standards to provide contemporary, evidence-based practice within child and family health nursing service delivery 3. analyse and apply the principles of primary health care, health promotion and relationship-based nursing practice to facilitate optimal health and development of infants, young children and families 4. identify the key elements required to foster effective therapeutic relationships with infants, young children, families and communities within the professional boundaries of ethical nursing practice and health care responsibilities 5. discuss the importance of the role of the child and family health nurse, working in a strengths-based partnership model, in the promotion of healthy family functioning and child-parent attachment 6. demonstrate an awareness of, and sensitivity towards social, cultural, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, environmental and political factors that influence the practice of child and family health nursing 7. critically examine and apply current research to develop reflective, problem-solving and critical thinking skills in the context of contemporary child and family health nursing practice. Graduate outcomes This course is designed to provide graduates with the skills to be lifelong learners and thus able to extend their professional and ethical understanding and knowledge through critical analysis and reflection on practice within the contemporary child and family health environment. Graduates of this course will: > analyse, evaluate and develop ethical nursing practice in the context of specialist child and family health nursing > extend clinical and leadership skills through research and reflection to facilitate lifelong learning in the context of caring for infants, young children and their families > apply professional knowledge, skills and attitudes to contribute to the community of child and family health. Postgraduate Studies 2015 < 31 >