Section Page Number Welcome to the Department of Nursing & Midwifery Department of Nursing & Midwifery - About Us Welcome to the programme

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1 Section Page Number Welcome to the Department of Nursing & Midwifery 3 Department of Nursing & Midwifery - About Us 4 Mission Statement 4 Background 4 Faculty of Education & Health Sciences 5 Mission of Faculty of Education & Health Sciences 5 About Us 5 Welcome to the programme 6 BSc. (Nursing) General 6 BSc. (Nursing) Intellectual Disability 6 BSc. (Nursing) Mental Health 7 BSc. Midwifery 7 H.Dip Midwifery 7 Certificate in Nursing (Nurse/Midwife) Prescribing 7 Introduction to the programmes 8 BSc (Nursing) General 8 BSc (Nursing) Intellectual Disability 9 BSc (Nursing) Mental Health 10 BSc Midwifery 11 H.Dip Midwifery 12 Certificate in Nursing (Nurse/Midwife) Prescribing 12 Theoretical Attendance 13 Department of Nursing & Midwifery Support Structures 14 Advisor System 14 Student Representative Forum 14 Course Directors 14 Allocations Office 15 Faculty Support 15 Clinical Placement 16 BSc Nursing (General, Mental Health, Intellectual Disability) & BSc Midwifery 16 Clinical Allocations 18 BSc Nursing (General, Mental Health, Intellectual Disability) & BSc Midwifery 18 Clinical Allocations Team 18 Clinical Allocations Office website 19 Pre Placement [Clinical] Criteria 20 Health Screening 20 Vaccination Programmes 20 Garda Vetting 20 Competency Training

2 Moving & Handling 20 Basic Life Support Training 20 Support Structures for Students on Clinical Placement 21 Nursing & Midwifery Preceptors 21 Medical Preceptors 21 Clinical Placement Co-Coordinators 21 Faculty Supporting Practice Placements 21 Allocations Liaisons Officers (ALO s) 22 Clinical Allocations Office 22 Course Directors 22 Uniform & Allowances 23 Uniforms 23 Accommodation & Travel Allowances 23 Clinical Skills Laboratories 24 Introduction 24 Clinical Skills Laboratories Team 24 Access to the Clinical Skills Laboratories 25 Clinical Skills Laboratories Environment 25 Simulated Clinical Environment 25 Home Living Suite 25 Communication Suite 25 Self Directed Learning Room 25 Audiovisual Recording Facilities 26 Attendance, Participation and Assessment 26 Clinical Skills Website 26 Department of Nursing & Midwifery Staff 27 Procedure for making an appointment with Lecturers 28 Assignment Feedback & Viewing Scripts 28 Resources for Students 29 Department of Nursing & Midwifery Website 29 Moodle 29 Library 29 Other Information for Students 30 General Queries 30 Submitting Assignments & Competency Documents 30 Clinical & Theoretical Records 30 Student Academic Administration 31 Students Union & Class Reps 31 Student Counselling 31 Student Health Centre 31 Chaplaincy 32 Disability Support Services 32 Mature Student Support 32 Access 32 Sport, Recreation and Culture 32 Careers Guidance

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4 Welcome to the Department of Nursing & Midwifery Welcome to the Department of Nursing & Midwifery at the University of Limerick. We are pleased that you have chosen to study with us and hope that you find your time at the University of Limerick both pleasant and interesting. The purpose of this handbook is to provide you with general information on the Department of Nursing & Midwifery, your nursing / midwifery programme and on clinical placements. It is expected that you will use this handbook as a resource over the next four years. You will also need to regularly refer to the annually published University of Limerick Handbook of Academic Regulations and Procedures and the University of Limerick, Student Code of Conduct for additional important information. The Department of Nursing & Midwifery offers a wide range of study opportunities which emphasise a flexible and lifelong approach to study. The Department is committed to facilitating students personal and professional development within a supportive, respectful and flexible environment. We value, respect and attend to the aesthetic of learning, teaching and the educational environment. We strive to demonstrate the qualities of openness, balance, rigorous scholarship, research and respect for diversity and creativity. Successful completion of your programme of study will enable you to practice as a Registered Nurse or Midwife, utilising evidenced based practice in a wide range of health care settings. We do hope that you will find your programme of study and your time at the University of Limerick both stimulating and enjoyable. If you have any difficulty in understanding any of the content(s) of this handbook please contact any of the staff in the Department of Nursing & Midwifery. Dr. Pauline O Reilly Head Department Nursing and Midwifery - 4 -

5 Department of Nursing & Midwifery About Us Mission Statement The mission of the Department of Nursing & Midwifery is to: Graduate competent nurses and midwives to meet the health needs of people locally, nationally and globally and create and disseminate knowledge, through the provision of education, research and the pursuit of activities that impact on all individuals and communities within an evolving society. Background The University of Limerick was established in 1972 as the National Institute for Higher Education, Limerick, and was classified as the University of Limerick (UL) in With the river Shannon as the unifying focal point, UL is situated on a superb 324-acre campus that spans County Limerick on its south campus and County Clare on its north campus. UL is an independent, internationally focused University that provides graduate and postgraduate programmes to 11,000 students. The mission of the University is: To promote and advance learning and knowledge through teaching, research and scholarship in an environment that encourages innovation and upholds the principles of free enquiry and expression. The University of Limerick is committed to enhancing a learner-focused and connected curriculum, providing a learning environment in which students learn to work in multi-disciplinary teams, where they develop excellent communication skills, a capacity to think critically and acquire a broad set of graduate attributes as identified by the University of Limerick i.e. responsible, articulate, proactive, innovative and collaborative. Undergraduate and postgraduate programmes at UL are offered through four constituent faculties (Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences; Business; Education & Health Sciences; and Science & Engineering) and 27 academic departments. The University currently employs in excess of 1,600 academic, research, support, management, administrative, maintenance and technical staff

6 Faculty of Education & Health Sciences The Faculty of Education and Health Sciences (EHS) is an exciting development at the University of Limerick. The faculty was newly created in January 2008 as part of a substantive academic restructuring at the University. The Faculty of Education and Health Sciences includes the following eight departments: Education & Professional Studies Physical Education & Sport Sciences Medicine Physiotherapy Nursing & Midwifery Psychology Occupational Therapy Speech & Language Therapy The mission of the Faculty of Education and Health Sciences is to: Graduate highly informed, committed, and critically reflective scientists, teachers, and education and healthcare professionals and leaders. Create and disseminate knowledge that impacts on the social, educational and healthcare needs of people locally, nationally and globally. Create an optimum working environment that facilitates motivated faculty and staff to deliver innovative and relevant programmes with exemplary teaching practices Assisted by the Assistant Deans of Research and Academic Affairs and the Faculty Administrators, the Faculty of Education and Health Sciences is managed by the Dean of Faculty, who meets with heads of departments at monthly Faculty Management Committee meetings. About Us The Department of Nursing and Midwifery offers a wide range of study opportunities which emphasises a flexible and life long learning approach to study. The Department is committed to facilitating students personal and professional development within a supportive, respectful and flexible environment. The Department of Nursing and Midwifery was established as a new Department in the College of Science in Since its inception, the department has offered programmes in response to changing health care services needs, developments within Nursing and Midwifery and local needs analysis in HSE West. Unique components of the programmes offered within the Department of Nursing and Midwifery are the professional requirements and clinical placement components of programmes. The Department of Nursing and Midwifery works in close partnership with the Health Service Providers in the provision of Clinical Placements. All nursing and midwifery programmes must comply with the Requirements and Standards of Nurse Registration Education Programmes (An Bord Altranais 2005), Midwifery Registration Education Programmes (An Bord Altranais 2005). Bord Altranais agus Cnáimhseachais na heireann (Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland) is the regulatory body for the nursing and midwifery profession and the department works in collaboration with Bord Altranais agus Cnáimhseachais na heireann

7 Welcome to the programme The overall aim of the BSc Nursing (General, Intellectual Disability and Mental Health) programmes, BSc Midwifery programme and Higher Diploma in Midwifery programme is to prepare competent, critical, research-minded, analytical and reflective practitioners. The uniqueness of each programme is reflected in it s learning outcomes. The successful completion of each programme leads to an entitlement to register with Bord Altranais agus Cnáimhseachais na heireann, the professional body for Nursing and Midwifery in Ireland. BSc. (Nursing) General Programme The course is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to become confident, analytical and reflective practitioners who are able to make maximum use of resources including research in the day to day practice. The overall aim of the programme is to facilitate the development of an individual who is able to practice nursing based on a sound knowledge and understanding of factors affecting the health and wellbeing of those who require care. This knowledge will be acquired through study of nursing, biological sciences, social sciences and related disciplines. Anne Fahy, Course Director, BSc Nursing (General)Programme BSc. Nursing (Intellectual Disability) Programme You are welcome to the BSc. Nursing (Intellectual Disability) programme which is based on a philosophy of inclusion, empowerment and valuing people. The course aims to prepare you to work as a member of the multi-disciplinary team in providing holistic care for persons with an intellectual disability and their families. A wide range of clinical experiences are incorporated throughout the four years allowing you to integrate the knowledge you gain into practice and see first-hand the general and specific healthcare needs of this group of people. There are many subjects you will study over the four years such as genetics, pharmacology, ethical issues and disability care, anatomy and physiology, psychology and sociology, and research with other nursing and midwifery student colleagues. It is anticipated that at the end of four years you will graduate a competent, knowledgeable practitioner that will contribute to the successful delivery of healthcare for persons with an intellectual disability and their families. Rosemary Lyons, Course Director, BSc Nursing (Intellectual Disability) Programme - 7 -

8 BSc. Nursing (Mental Health) Programme The course is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to become an analytical and reflective practitioner able to provide a holistic them to integrate humanistic, scientific and research based principles enhancing their knowledge and understanding of the physical, emotional, cognitive, social and spiritual needs of persons with mental health problems. This knowledge will be acquired through study of nursing, biological sciences, social sciences and related disciplines. Competence in clinical practice which will be acquired though the study of nursing, biological sciences social sciences and related disciplines. Therese Hennessy, Course Director, BSc Nursing (Mental Health)Programme BSc. Midwifery Programme This knowledge will be acquired through the study of midwifery, biological sciences, social sciences and related disciplines. The philosophy of midwifery education is based on a wellness model of women centred holistic care. The programme aims to prepare a competent caring research minded analytical and reflective midwife practitioner who applies a systematic evidenced based approach to responding creatively and sensitively to the needs of pregnant women and their families. Students will be University based and will have early and balanced exposure through midwifery practice throughout the programme. Sandra Atkinson, Course Director, BSc Midwifery Programme Higher Diploma in Midwifery Programme The philosophy of midwifery education is based on a wellness model of women centred holistic care. The programme aims to prepare a competent caring research minded analytical and reflective midwife practitioner who applies a systematic evidenced based approach to responding creatively and sensitively to the needs of pregnant women and their families. The 18 month programme is full time and the student is both an employee of the Midwestern Regional Maternity Hospital and a student of the University of Limerick. Carmel Bradshaw, Course Director, Higher Diploma in Midwifery Programme Certificate in Nursing (Nurse/Midwife) Prescribing The Certificate in Nursing (Nurse/Midwife) Prescribing aims to prepare nurses/midwives as independent prescribers enabling nurses/midwives to provide patients with effective access to medications, and expands the role of nurses and midwives in progressing the health care needs of the future. The programme seeks to ensure the development of expert nurse/midwife prescribers to meet the complex service user s needs in a variety of care settings. All those involved in the organising and delivery of the programme look forward to working with you. Jill Murphy, Course Director, Certificate in Nursing (Nurse/Midwife) Prescribing - 8 -

9 Introduction to the programme BSc Nursing (General) The BSc Nursing (General) is a full-time four year degree offered by the Department of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Limerick in conjunction with the Health Service Executive West (Limerick, Clare and North Tipperary).On successful completion of the programme students will be able to present for registration with Bord Altranais agus Cnáimhseachais na heireann and practise as a Registered General Nurse (R.G.N.).The Department of Nursing and Midwifery has received approval from Bord Altranais agus Cnáimhseachais na heireann for the programme. The course is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to become confident, analytical and reflective practitioners who are able to make maximum use of resources, including research, in their day-to-day practice. The overall aim of the programme is to facilitate the development of an individual who is able to practice nursing, based on a sound knowledge and understanding of factors affecting the health and wellbeing of those who require care. This knowledge will be acquired through study of nursing, biological sciences, social sciences and related disciplines. Course Structure The Programme is offered full time over four years. The curriculum encompasses the development of theory and practice simultaneously, with the current programme structured, in line with An Bord Altranais Requirements and Standards for Nurse Education (2005) as follows: 69 weeks Theory 45 weeks un-rostered Clinical Placement 36 weeks Internship As our health services are constantly developing, nurses play a major contribution in developing and enhancing care to patients in acute and community settings. This programme provides graduates with the knowledge and experience to contribute effectively in community and health care services. Registered General Nurses may progress their careers through advanced nursing studies, allowing them to assume roles as clinical nurse specialists and advanced nurse practitioners, as well as roles in nursing education and research. The Course Director for this programme is Anne Fahy, (HS3-007) and is contactable at , anne.fahy@ul.ie - 9 -

10 BSc. Nursing (Intellectual Disability) The BSc Nursing (Intellectual Disability) is based on a philosophy of inclusion, empowerment and valuing people. This programme is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to become an analytical and reflective practitioner able to provide a holistic and caring approach to clients with an intellectual disability. The overall aim of the programme is to facilitate the professional and personal development of each individual student. It will enable them to integrate humanistic, scientific and research based principles enhancing their knowledge and understanding of the physical, emotional, cognitive, social and spiritual needs of persons with intellectual disabilities. This knowledge will be acquired through the study and practice of nursing, biological sciences, social sciences and related disciplines. The BSc Nursing (Intellectual Disability) is a full-time four year degree programme offered by the Department of Nursing & Midwifery, University of Limerick in conjunction with the Daughter of Charity Services. A wide range of clinical experiences are incorporated throughout the four years including early intervention, residential settings and community. On successful completion of the programme students will be able to present for registration with Bord Altranais agus Cnáimhseachais na heireann and practice as a Registered Nurse Intellectual Disability (R.N.I.D.).The Department of Nursing and Midwifery have received approval from Bord Altranais agus Cnáimhseachais na heireann for the programme. Course Structure The Programme is offered full time over four years. The curriculum encompasses the development of theory and practice simultaneously, with the current programme structured, in line with An Bord Altranais Requirements and Standards for Nurse Education (2005) as follows 69 weeks Theory 45 weeks un-rostered Clinical Placement 36 weeks Internship The government recognise the need for more services for people with intellectual disability and at present there is a shortfall in nurses qualifying in this area. As services for people with an intellectual disability have evolved in the past few years emphasis is placed on integration in schools, work and community. The R.N.I.D. is at the forefront in promoting and advocating for this integration. This programme provides graduates with the knowledge and experience to contribute effectively in Community and Health Care Services. The Course Director for this programme is Rosemary Lyons, (HS3-031) and is contactable at , rosemary.lyons@ul.ie

11 BSc Nursing (Mental Health) The BSc Nursing (Mental Health) programme is a full-time four year degree programme offered by the Department of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Limerick, in conjunction with the Health Service Executive West (Limerick, Clare, North Tipperary). On successful completion of the programme students will be able to present for registration with Bord Altranais and practise as a Registered Psychiatric Nurse (R.P.N.).The Department of Nursing and Midwifery has received approval from Bord Altranais agus Cnáimhseachais na heireann for the programme. The BSc Nursing (Mental Health) programme is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to become confident, critical, analytical and reflective practitioners capable of responding to the needs of persons with mental health problems and their families. This will be achieved through the integration of theory, reflection in and on practice, research awareness and a balanced exposure to clinical practice to ensure safe and competent mental health nurse practitioners at the point of registration. Mental health nurses work in a multidisciplinary team context providing holistic, recovery focused care in order to address the effects of mental illness on the biological, psychological and social aspects of the person s life. Specifically, mental health nursing is concerned with minimising the effects of mental illness in these domains and enhancing personal coping and well being through a range of evidence based therapeutic interventions. Central to mental health nursing is the patient /client relationship and the principle of collaborative care planning. In this context, each student will develop the ability to access, plan, implement and evaluate care to promote mental health and life skills competence in clients across the care continuum. Over the four years of this programme students will study a broad range of topics including for example biological and social sciences, law in nursing, pharmacology, research, management and nursing related to a whole range of mental health conditions. Students will also spend a significant amount of time over the four years in clinical placement and gain experience across a range of areas based in Limerick, Clare and North Tipperary. Course Structure The development of theory and practice occur simultaneously with the current programme structured, in line with An Bord Altranais Requirements and Standards for Nurse Education (2005) as follows 69 Weeks Theory 45 weeks unrostered Clinical Placement 36 weeks Internship The Course Director for this programme is Therese Hennessy (HS3-010) and is contactable at , therese.hennessy@ul.ie

12 BSc Midwifery The BSc Midwifery is a full-time four year degree programme offered by the Department of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Limerick in partnership with the Health Service Executive West (Limerick, Clare and North Tipperary). Clinical Placements will take place in the Mid-West and the South East Regions. On successful completion of the programme students will be able to present for registration with Bord Altranais agus Cnáimhseachais na heireann and practice as a Registered Midwife (R.M.).The Department of Nursing and Midwifery has received approval from Bord Altranais agus Cnáimhseachais na heireann for the programme. This knowledge will be acquired through the study and practice of midwifery, biological sciences, social sciences and related disciplines. The philosophy of midwifery education is based on a wellness model of women centred holistic care. The programme aims to prepare a competent caring research minded analytical and reflective midwife practitioner who applies a systematic evidenced based approach to responding creatively and sensitively to the needs of pregnant women and their families. Students will be University based and will have early and balanced exposure to midwifery practice throughout the programme. Course Structure The programme is offered over four years. The curriculum encompasses the development of theory and practice simultaneously, the current programme structured, in line with An Bord Altranais Requirements and Standards for Midwifery Education (2005) as follows 69 weeks theory 45 weeks unrostered Clinical Placement 36 weeks Internship The programme will provide graduates with the knowledge and experience to contribute effectively in the Health Service. There has been a shortage of qualified midwives and there is a need for an ongoing supply of midwifery practitioners, educated and enabled to provide safe, high quality maternity care. This initiative will go towards addressing national and international concerns related to recruitment and retention of midwives. The Course Director for this programme is Sandra Atkinson, (HS3-012) and is contactable at , sandra.atkinson@ul.ie

13 Higher Diploma in Midwifery Course Structure The programme is offered over 78 weeks with theory and practice acquired in tandem throughout the three semesters with further practice placements outside of semester. Students are afforded the opportunity to experience different models of midwifery care throughout Europe for one week in Semester 2. On successful completion of the programme students will be able to present for Registration as a midwife with Bord Altranais agus Cnáimhseachais na heireann. For those wishing to register as a midwife in other EU countries, a further 12 months of midwifery practice is required under EU regulations. The Course Director for this programme is Carmel Bradshaw, (HS3-009) and is contactable at , Carmel.Bradshaw@ul.ie Certificate in Nursing (Nurse/Midwife) Prescribing In Ireland the prescribing of medicinal products is a new role for nurses and midwives to meet the needs of patients/clients and the community in general. Collaboration with health service providers has ensured that the programme design facilitates flexible, student friendly access to learning. Students will be based in practice throughout the programme. Course Structure The programme will be offered over six months. Attendance will be monitored to meet the requirements of 28 days (168 hours) theoretical instruction and 12 days (96 hours) clinical instruction to ensure eligibility to register for the Certificate in Nursing (Nurse/Midwife) Prescribing. Theory and Practice Students are required to integrate the theoretical content of the programme into the clinical setting and thereby demonstrate an understanding and proficiency in their prescribing role. The theoretical element of the programme is facilitated through various methods of delivery to ensure learning is student centered and the synergy between the modules is understood. This process facilitates the students development of the parallel skills of reflection and critical analysis, and challenges them to engage in higher cognitive skills such as linking concepts and evaluating ideas. In the event of any absence from the clinical practice placement element of the programme it is important that the student notifies the medical practitioner serving as supervisor for clinical practicum or clinical instruction and the course director. The Course Director for this programme is Jill Murphy, (HS3-004) and is contactable at , jill.murphy@ul.ie

14 Theoretical Attendance (All programmes) Students are expected to attend 100% of the theoretical component of the programme. Students unable to attend a teaching session (lectures, tutorials, clinical skills laboratories) must inform the module leader and relevant lecturer teaching the session, of their absence by . Where persistent absences are identified the module leader will liaise with the Course Director of the respective programme. The module leader may instigate a formal meeting with the student to discuss non-attendance

15 Department of Nursing & Midwifery Student Support Structures The support structures for students are well established in the University of Limerick. The Department of Nursing & Midwifery prides itself on providing an individualised student-centred service. The support structures provided by the department to students are of a high standard and complement those provided by the wider University. Students should also refer to the Student Handbook which has been compiled to help you deal with all aspects of your academic progression through college. It contains all the procedural requirements that you must adhere to for the duration of your programme. The Student Handbook and the Handbook of Academic Administration is available online ( and you should consult this regularly as it will contain regular updates. Advisor System The UL academic adviser system plays a key role in ensuring that students adjust to the University environment and supports them to make the most of their potential while at the UL. Maria Bailey, Lecturer, is the Senior Adviser for the Department of Nursing & Midwifery who assigns an adviser faculty member, to each student. Students are encouraged by faculty to liaise with their adviser. Student Representative Forum The Student Representative forum comprises of class representatives (as identified by The Students Union) from every discipline for every cohort, Course Directors, Clinical Allocations Officer, the Students Union Representative and representatives from our Health Service Partners. The forum provides an opportunity for dialogue and discussion addresses issues affecting students and enhances links between students, the department and health service partners. The Department of Nursing & Midwifery actively supports the role of class representatives. Student representatives are provided with adequate notice of meetings and are strongly encouraged to attend. Where meetings occur during clinical placement, reps may be excused from placement following communication with the CNM/CMM and students are not expected to repay this time. Course Directors The quality of the student experience is fundamental to the role of Course Director in supporting students to become competent practitioners. Main roles of the Course Director include: Managing and overseeing the academic and practice elements of the programme and working closely with faculty, administration, Head of Department, Allocations Office, Health Service Providers and Bord Altranais agus Cnáimhseachais na heireann

16 Assisting in clarifying queries and concerns, helping students adjust to the University environment and supporting you to make the most of your potential while in UL and in developing as a student nurse/midwife. Acting as a source of advice and information on general student problems, including professional and personal problems, and in appropriate cases, makes referrals to other support structures such as the Writing Learning Centre, Science Learning Centre, Counselling Service etc. Makes representations on behalf of students Allocations Office The Allocations Team is available to assist in clarifying queries for students during theory time and also during clinical placement. The Allocations Office will be open for all enquiries (telephone or visit) between the hours of 11am-12pm & 2pm 3pm. Please correspond with the Allocations Office via or telephone outside of these hours. Faculty support Each member of faculty facilitates a weekly two hours drop in session for students during semester time. These sessions give students the opportunity to meet with a faculty member to discuss any queries you may have in relation to your programme / module. Designated drop-in times are displayed outside lecturers offices and students are welcome to drop in without an appointment during designated times

17 Clinical Placement BSc Nursing (General, Mental Health, Intellectual Disability) & BSc Midwifery The aim of clinical practice learning is to enable students develop the domains of competency and become safe, caring, competent decision-makers willing to accept personal and professional accountability for evidence-based nursing/midwifery care (An Bord Altranais, 2005). Periods of clinical placement occur throughout the four years of the BSc Nursing and Midwifery programmes, both unrostered (supernumerary) placement and internship placement. The schedule of placements, that is exact dates and length of placements are made available to students at the end of each academic year for the year into which they will progress. A sample template of the four years of the BSc Nursing & Midwifery programmes can be found on the clinical allocations office section of the Department of Nursing and Midwifery website. This is only intended only as a guide and should be viewed as such. Bord Altranais agus Cnáimhseachais na heireann (Nursing & Midwifery Board of Ireland) is the statutory body which provides for the registration, control and education of nurses and for other matters relating to nurses and the practice of nursing (An Bord Altranais The Code of Professional Conduct April 2000). You will be required to register with Bord Altranais agus Cnáimhseachais na heireann and the relevant registrations forms will be provided for you during the first week of your Nursing/Midwifery programme. Following your registration you will receive documentation from An Bord Altranais (Requirements & Standards for Registration Education Programmes 2005). It is vital that you familiarise yourself with this information particularly the Clinical Placement requirements for your chosen Nursing or Midwifery Programme which are summarised below but which can be viewed in full on Unrostered Clinical Placement time is modularised and as such you will receive a grade for each module, which does not affect your QCA. The essential component to successfully completing each module is attendance at 100% of your placement and successful completion and submission of relevant competency documentation which you will be provided with at the beginning of each year of your programme. Students who have not passed this module are provided with repeat placements to clear time deficits and attain competencies. As with all modules students cannot progress to the subsequent year of their programme until all components of clinical placement are successfully completed. Clinical placements for the BSc General, Intellectual Disability and Mental Health programmes are based in the HSE West (Limerick, Clare and North Tipperary) and for the BSc Midwifery programme, placements are based in the HSE West and HSE South (Waterford, Clonmel and Kilkenny)

18 Students on clinical placement are subject to the code of conduct of The University of Limerick and the relevant health service area in which they are placed. You are expected to adhere to and be familiar with The Code of Professional Conduct for each Nurse and Midwife 2000, The Guidance for Nursing Students (An Bord Altranais, 2008) / The Guidance for Midwifery Students (An Bord Altranais, 2008). It is expected that students respect all colleagues, patients and clients and behave in a professional manner while on placement

19 Clinical Allocations BSc Nursing (General, Mental Health, Intellectual Disability) & BSc Midwifery The allocations office is responsible for the organisation and co-ordination of your placements. This section of your handbook is intended to give you an introduction to the allocations team and some information relating to your placements. Information will be available and updated regularly on the clinical allocations office section of the Department of Nursing and Midwifery website. It is essential that you become familiar with the documentation and information available via this source information. The system, through your UL student address and the clinical allocations office website are our main means of communication and we cannot over emphasise the importance of reviewing your s and the website regularly to ensure you are aware of any new developments or changes. The allocations office also has a system of web texting students therefore it is important that you inform us of any change to your mobile number. The Allocations Office will be open for all enquiries (telephone or visit) between the hours of 11am-12pm & 2pm 3pm. Please correspond with the Allocations Office via or telephone outside of these hours. This information is only a snap shot and not exhaustive. Please make it part of your routine to check the relevant areas for other information during term time Clinical Allocations Team Name Role Office Phone Deirdre O Sullivan Allocations Officer HSG deirdre.osullivan@ul.ie Mairéad Hussey Assistant Allocations Officer HSG mairead.hussey@ul.ie Sheila Nolan Administrator HSG sheila.nolan@ul.ie Unrostered Clinical Placement modules are composed of periods of varying length. You may experience some disruption to your domestic or living arrangements during this time and we would ask that you anticipate this and plan appropriately. Please make the necessary travel arrangements to ensure that you are present and on time for your placement The process of allocating students is complex and requires a number of factors to be considered. We aim to have the allocations posted at the earliest possible

20 opportunity, normally four weeks before placement. These may be subject to change and students must review their / clinical allocations office website regularly as this is how any changes will be communicated. Student requests for a change of clinical placement location can only be considered in exceptional circumstances. Relevant forms can be downloaded from the Department of Nursing & Midwifery website. Attendance on placement is recorded in your Competency Assessment Portfolio & Attendance Record document which each student will receive prior to commencing their first clinical placement. An unrostered clinical placement week is 35 hours. It is the responsibility of the student to ensure that this book is completed correctly and returned to the Department of Nursing & Midwifery administration office (HSG-004) to ensure that they will receive a P (pass) grade for their clinical placement module. Failure to do so will result in students having to repeat placements. This will occur during vacation time and cannot be accommodated during theory time and is at the discretion of the Health Service providers. Please refer to and adhere to the Procedure and Guidelines for Recording Attendance while on Clinical Placement. Students must also adhere to health service protocols for reporting absence from clinical placement. On completion of your chosen programme the Allocations Office will be able to provide you with a record of the clinical placement undertaken during your programme should you need it for registration purposes abroad. Clinical Allocations Office Website The Clinical Allocations Office webpage is located on the main Nursing and Midwifery website at the following location In addition to the information outlined in this handbook, the Clinical Allocations Office webpage provides additional information regarding clinical placements and clinical placement allocations

21 Pre Placement [Clinical] Requirements As you have chosen to undertake a professional programme there are a number of requirements that you will need to undertake prior to being accepted for clinical placement modules. These are essential prior to undertaking your placement. Non completion may result in you not being allocated to, or accepted for clinical placement. Health Screening Health screening for BSc Nursing (General, Mental Health) & BSc Midwifery and Higher Diploma in Midwifery will be required and provided by The HSE West (Limerick, Clare & North Tipperary). BSc Nursing (Intellectual Disability) health screening is required and provided by The Daughters of Charity. Vaccination programme The vaccination programme for BSc Nursing (General, Mental Health) & BSc Midwifery will be required and provided by The HSE West (Limerick, Clare & North Tipperary) through the Occupational Health Department in The Mid-Western Regional Hospital. Information on the vaccination programme will be provided to you by The Occupational Health Department. BSc Nursing (Intellectual Disability) Vaccination programme is required and provided by The Daughters of Charity. Garda Vetting Garda Vetting for BSc Nursing (General, Mental Health) & BSc Midwifery, Higher Diploma in Midwifery programme will be required and undertaken by The HSE West (Limerick, Clare & North Tipperary) during orientation week and as may be appropriate throughout your programme as per relevant current HSE/Daughters of Charity Policy. BSc Nursing (Intellectual Disability) Garda Vetting is required and currently undertaken by The Daughters of Charity. Competency Training A Competency seminar will be provided for all BSc Nursing & Midwifery students in semester one prior to the commencement of the first clinical placement. Tutorials and lectures will be provided as appropriate throughout your programme as you progress. Moving & Handling M & H training will be provided prior to undertaking your first clinical placement and subsequently as per local policy arrangements at different points of your chosen programme. Basic Life Support BLS training will be provided prior to undertaking your first clinical placement and subsequently as per local policy arrangements at different points of your chosen programme. M & H and BLS certification will be provided to you by the trainers. It is your responsibility to retain this certification for your own records as duplicates will not be available. Attendance at this training is mandatory. Dressing comfortably for these training courses is advised. Non-restrictive clothing and flat shoes are required

22 Support Structures for Students on Clinical Placement Clinical Placement is your opportunity to experience nursing and midwifery and contribute as a member of a team. It is vital that you gain as much experience as possible from each placement. As such there are a range of support structures available to students to ensure you maximise these opportunities. Nursing and Midwifery Preceptors BSc Nursing (General) BSc Nursing (Intellectual Disability) and BSc Nursing (Mental Health) BSc Midwifery and Higher Diploma in Midwifery Nursing and Midwifery Preceptors are identified registered nurses and midwives within the practice area, who provide support, supervision and student assessments (An Bord Altranais, 2005). Medical Mentors Certificate in Nursing (Nurse/Midwife) Prescribing Medical mentors are identified medical practitioners within the practice area who provide support, supervision and student assessments. Clinical Placement Co-Coordinators Clinical Placement Co-ordinators (CPC s) work under the umbrella of the Nurse Practice Development Unit/Midwifery Practice Development Unit. The role of the CPC is to guide, support and facilitate student nurses/midwives learning whilst on clinical placements. This involves creating and supporting a quality-learning environment that enhances and increases students' clinical competence. They are available to assist students in maximising the available learning opportunities during clinical placements. The CPCs in conjunction with Clinical Nurse/Midwifery Managers and Preceptors endeavour to create and maintain an optimum clinical environment conductive to learning. CPC s provide support and guidance for staff in their role as preceptors and facilitate partnership between the Health Service Provider and the University of Limerick. During some placements students may not have CPC s and will have an identified support person with whom they can link for support. Faculty Supporting Practice Placements Each clinical placement location is supported by a member of faculty from the Department of Nursing & Midwifery. The supporting faculty member fosters the educational and practice links between the department and the practice placement site and provides educational support to students and the practice placement site. This information can be sourced from the Department of Nursing & Midwifery website

23 Allocations Liaisons Officers BSc Nursing & Midwifery Programmes (ALO s) There is one ALO for each discipline of nursing and midwifery. The ALO in the HSE/Daughters of Charity in partnership with the Allocations Office in the University of Limerick will manage clinical placements as relevant to their programme. Contact details for the ALOs are as follows: Programme Name Address & Phone BSc Nursing (General) Josephine Mackey 1 st Floor, Nurses Home, Mid Western Regional Hospital, josephine.mackey@hse.ie BSc Nursing (Intellectual Disability) BSc Nursing (Mental Health) Noelle McKenna Rachel Cleary Patricia Harrison Theresa O Sullivan Dooradoyle Limerick. St. Vincent s Centre, Daughters of Charity, Lisnagry, Limerick. School of Nursing, St. Josephs Hospital, Mulgrave Street, Limerick. BSc Midwifery Carol Desmond Limerick Regional Maternity Hospital Ennis Road Limerick. Clinical Allocations Office allocations@limdocservice.ie teresa.osullivan1@hse.ie carolm.desmond@hse.ie The allocations team continues to be a source of support for BSc Nursing & Midwifery students during clinical placement and are available to students at any stage during clinical placement. Course Directors The Course Directors will continue to act as a source of advice and information for students during clinical placement. It is important to note that while students are on clinical placement, they are entitled and encouraged to avail of the previously mentioned supports structures located both within the Department of Nursing & Midwifery and on campus when necessary

24 Uniform & Allowances - BSc Nursing & Midwifery Programmes Uniform Students on the BSc Nursing & Midwifery Programmes will be provided with information on the provision of and the policies relating to uniforms from the practice development units of the relevant health service partners on commencement of the BSc Nursing or Midwifery programme. Accommodation & Travel Allowances Currently, the Department of Health and Children provide some allowances to students for travel and accommodation costs occurred while on unrostered placements. These allowances are intended only as a contribution towards the cost of clinical placement as detailed in (Department of Health & Children, Circular 9/2004). All allowances are managed by the Allocations Liaison Officers for the relevant BSc Nursing or Midwifery programme and not by The University of Limerick. Further information on these allowances can be found on the Department of Nursing & Midwifery website with your placement information

25 Clinical Skills Laboratories Introduction The Clinical Skills Laboratories (CSL s) provide students with an opportunity to learn and develop the skills essential to nursing and midwifery practice within a supportive environment. During your time in the CSL s you will be introduced to a range of clinical skills essential for safe practice. While on clinical placement, you will have an opportunity to further develop these skills under supervision. As you progress through your programme, the time spent in the CSL s will enable you to develop your dexterity, build your confidence and increase your awareness of potential challenges faced in clinical practice, thereby enhancing your skills of analysis, critical thinking, problem solving and reflective practice. The development of these clinical skills is an integral part of your journey to becoming a competent and professional nurse or midwife. With regard to registered nurses and midwives the CSL provide an opportunity to enhance further skills and competencies in your practice area. Clinical Skills Laboratories Team Name Role Office Phone Liz Kingston Senior Clinical HS liz.kingston@ul.ie Skills Laboratories Coordinator Mairead Moloney Clinical Skills HS mairead.moloney@ul.ie Laboratories Coordinator Dr. Kevin Johnson Senior Audiovisual Technical Officer HS kevin.johnson@ul.ie The Clinical Skills Laboratories are located on the ground and first floor of the Health Sciences Building. The CSL s are open from 09.00hrs hrs, Monday to Friday. For enquiries, please contact mairead.moloney@ul.ie

26 Access to the Clinical Skills Laboratories To gain access to the Clinical Skills Laboratories section of the Health Sciences Building, students are required to swipe their student ID card. In order to successfully achieve this, you must have a valid student ID card on your person and swipe the metallic strip through the card reader located at the entrance to the Clinical Skills Laboratories. Once the system reads the card and validates it off the Universities Active Directory, you will be permitted access to the restricted area. To exit, simply push the button titled Press to Exit. Clinical Skills Laboratories Environment The Clinical Skills Laboratories comprise a number of simulated healthcare environments including a simulated clinical environment, a home living suite, a communication suite and a self directed learning room. Simulated Clinical Environment These environments simulate real healthcare settings, similar to the environments you might see on clinical placement, for example a medical ward in a general hospital or a postnatal ward in a maternity hospital. Home Living Suite The home living suite simulates the residences of individuals in a primary care setting, for example a person s home or a residential unit. It allows students to learn the skills associated with delivering primary care. The home living suite consists of a simulated kitchen, bedroom, bathroom and living room. Communication Suite The communications suite consists of the relaxation and multi sensory environment and four interview rooms. The relaxation and multi sensory environment has many purposes and is utilised by students and staff alike. This room allows you to experience and develop many skills, for example relaxation strategies, facilitating multi sensory sessions and reflective practice. There are four interview rooms within the suite. These rooms facilitate the development of your interpersonal and communication skills. These rooms can also be modified to simulate a clinical environment if required. Self Directed Learning Room Throughout your programme, you may wish to avail of the self directed learning room in order to practice, update and review clinical skills. Students may also use this room to prepare for assessments, exams and presentations or to make AV recordings. For further information, please refer to the clinical skills laboratories page of the Nursing and Midwifery website at the following location