Photo courtesy of Latrobe Valley Express

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1 Photo courtesy of Latrobe Valley Express Graduate Nurse & Midwifery Programs 2015

2 Our Shared Vision We will be a leading regional health care provider delivering timely, high quality accessible, integrated and responsive services to the Gippsland community. Our Core Values Person-Centred Care Working Together Excellence Integrity Our Strategic Direction Enhance services available to the community Improving service models Improving quality Enabling people Supporting education, training & research Building leadership Developing infrastructure Developing partnerships

3 Welcome We are very pleased that you are considering Latrobe Regional Hospital (LRH) for your graduate year. Latrobe Regional Hospital is the largest hospital in Gippsland and provides a broad range of experiences ideal for the beginning of your nursing career. We consider clinical support to be of the greatest importance to Graduate Nurses and Midwives. This includes orientation time and a preceptor in each rotation, extensive clinical educator contact, and a supportive culture at the hospital. There are excellent opportunities after the Graduate Nurse and Midwifery programs, for you to develop your career in many generalist or speciality areas. There is a comprehensive Discovery Program (a transition program) and extensive opportunities for further study. We welcome your interest, and look forward to your application. Kind regards Jennie Wood Graduate Nurse & Midwifery Program Coordinator Nursing & Midwifery Streams Linda Waters Psychiatric Nurse Consultant Mental Health Stream

4 CONTENTS Page 1. Aim of the Graduate Nurse & Midwifery Programs 1 2. Overview of the Graduate Nurse & Midwifery Programs a) Graduate Nurse Program 1 b) Collaborative Graduate Nurse Programs 1 c) Graduate Nurse/Midwife Program 2 d) Mental Health Stream Graduate Nurse Program 3 3. Information about the Graduate Nurse & Midwifery Programs a) Starting dates and sizes of intakes 6 b) Rotations 7 c) Clinical Support 9 d) Remuneration 10 e) Study Days 12 f) Assessment Your Application and our Recruitment Process a) Application / Cover Letter & Résumé 15 b) Interview 17 c) Notification of appointment Employment Opportunities after the Graduate Year Discovery Program, Ongoing Education and 22 Postgraduate Opportunities 7. Services Further information Where You Will Find Us Application Form 27

5 1. AIM OF THE GRADUATE NURSE & MIDWIFERY PROGRAMS To facilitate and support you, the beginning practitioner in your transition from student to Registered Nurse or Nurse & Midwife by providing a structured clinical support program within a theoretical framework Objectives of the program are to: Assist graduate nurses and midwives to provide excellent person-centred care Provide clear expectations of the roles of the graduate nurse and graduate midwife Provide clinical support for the graduate through preceptorship, assistance from clinical educators, and friendly encouraging culture at the hospital Provide support to all staff who are involved in supporting graduate nurses and midwives Provide a theoretical framework through study days and other educational opportunities. These will comprise topics to increase skill acquisition, consolidation of knowledge, critical thinking ability and development of professional skills Facilitate safe nursing and midwifery practice Enhance the recruitment of nurses and midwives to the hospital and to the Gippsland region Increase the retention of nurses and midwives in the hospital and the Gippsland region 2. OVERVIEW OF THE GRADUATE NURSE & MIDWIFERY PROGRAMS a) Graduate Nurse Program (Nursing Stream) There will be two intakes, a larger one at the end of January and a smaller one in mid-may. The program includes: A four-month rotation through a general acute unit (medical or surgical) or a rehabilitation unit Two further four-month rotations. One will be through a general acute unit, and the other will be in a specialist unit. The year will be supported by study days covering the core requirements for a graduate nurse. b) Collaborative Graduate Nurse Programs (Nursing Stream) Latrobe Regional Hospital (LRH) has combined with two other facilities to provide experience in areas that traditional graduate programs cannot provide. The programs have a strong focus on rural inpatient and community nursing care. The graduate practices health care provision through the trajectory of illness, including 1

6 primary/preventative health care, acute inpatient care, and care in the patient s own environment. The graduate receives clinical support from clinical educators and preceptors, and participates in formal paid study days, incorporating topics to enhance both clinical and professional development. Collaborative program between Latrobe Regional Hospital (LRH) and Yarram District Health Service (YDHS) The program has been developed to allow the new graduate to gain experience in two acute hospitals, one in a regional and the other in a rural setting, combined with a community rotation. The program consists of two, six-month rotations. Six months will be at LRH in the medical/surgical or the medical/palliative care unit and six months will be at YDHS in acute medical, the Urgent Care department, aged care, district nursing and community palliative care. Some assistance with finding accommodation is available at both facilities. Collaborative program between Latrobe Regional Hospital (LRH) and Latrobe Community Health Service (LCHS) The program has been developed to allow the new graduate to gain experience in an acute hospital and community setting. The program consists of three, four-month rotations. Eight months will be at LRH in the medical/surgical and the medical/palliative care units and four months will be at LCHS in district nursing and community palliative care. c) Graduate Nurse/Midwife Program (Nursing/Midwifery Stream) This program is aimed at graduates with a double degree in Nursing and Midwifery. Four graduates will be appointed into the Nursing/Midwifery Stream each year. There will be one intake, at the end of January. The program will encompass both midwifery and nursing. This graduate year is suitable for graduates interested in consolidating their knowledge in both disciplines. Graduates will work for a total of six months in midwifery, and a total of six months in nursing. The graduate year will be split into four rotations of three months each: Two rotations will take place in the Thomson Unit (women s health unit) and Two rotations will take place in either the Tyers, Tanjil or Tarra Units (medical or surgical units). The year will be supported by study days covering the core requirements for a graduate nurse and midwife. 2

7 d) Graduate Nurse Program (Mental Health Stream) The Mental Health Stream Graduate Nurse Program incorporates and articulates directly with the Master of Mental health via LaTrobe University and the Graduate Year in Mental Health Nursing. This course is designed for Registered Nurses who have an interest in mental health. The course is offered by mixed mode via distance education, face to face tutorials and attendance at mandatory study days. Clinical Placements including specific objectives and learning opportunities form the basis of our Graduate Program. The extensive use of computer technology and face to face communication between students, teaching staff, clinical experts and consumers is integral to the course. The course consists of three subjects, which will be completed part time over 12 months. Contract, Orientation and Course Fees Participants will be employed four (4) days per week (0.8 EFT) by LRH Mental Health Service (LRHMHS) with a temporary 12month contract. Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) and various scholarships may be available to students undertaking postgraduate mental health studies. On commencement, all participants will attend a two week orientation program. *As the partnership with LaTrobe University is new the following information is subject to change* Subjects Covered: Year 1, Semester 1 MMH5CPM: Clinical Practice in Mental Health 1. Synopsis: In this subject students will develop fundamental knowledge and skills required in clinical mental health practice. Students will develop comprehensive assessment and management skills and recognise the interrelationship between a person s medical, social and psychological health. This subject provides a theoretical and practical foundation that prepares students for ethically oriented professional practice. This subject enables students to develop critical thinking and problem solving skills, specialised clinical proficiency, and effective communication skills. Students will be able to make independent judgements; plan, implement and evaluate practice in mental health contexts and function effectively as a member of a multidisciplinary team. The subject is delivered via a flexible online mode comprising learning modules via LMS and supported by appropriate clinical practicum. 3

8 Year 1, Semester 2 Clinical Practice in Mental Health 2. (May apply for advanced standing for this subject) Synopsis: In this subject, students will examine diagnostic classifications and formulations used in psychiatry. Students will be able to recognise and compare frameworks and models in mental health practice, including the principles of trauma informed care in service delivery. This subject will enable students to critically evaluate outcome measures and operational legislation and protocols in mental health. Students will examine evidence-based practice, mental health promotion and the prevention and early detection of mental illness. This subject enables students to develop critical thinking, problem solving, and effective communication skills for ethically oriented professional practice. Students will be able to make high level independent judgements; plan, implement and evaluate mental health practice and function effectively as a member of a multidisciplinary team. The subject is delivered via a flexible online mode comprising learning modules via LMS and supported by clinical practicum. Year 1, Semester 2 (if advanced standing approved) NSM5AMH: Research foundations. In this subject students will develop advanced knowledge of nursing and midwifery research practice. They will examine the elements of the research process including: identification of a clinical issue or research problem, formulation of a research question or statement, research design and methods, data collection and analyses, and dissemination of results. They will also acquire skills required to conduct a literature review for research purposes and address the ethics of research. The subject is delivered via a flexible online mode (LMS) comprised of learning modules. It provides essential research knowledge that can be built upon in the Advanced Practice A and B subjects. NMH5AMH: Advanced practice in Mental Health 2. In this subject, students will build on advanced knowledge and skills and undertake specific modules related to their area of interest. Although the focus for each student through this subject will vary slightly, all students will develop cognitive and technical skills that demonstrate a broad understanding of a body of knowledge and advanced understanding of underlying principles and theoretical concepts in some areas of a particular focus in mental health practice. The subject is delivered via a flexible online mode comprising learning modules via LMS and supported by appropriate clinical practicum. 4

9 Significant aspects of all the Nursing and Nursing/Midwifery Programs Individualised attention and support when needed A Preceptorship Program for each graduate, in each rotation Orientation time where you work alongside your Preceptor - you share your patient load with your Preceptor, while becoming orientated to your new workplace Extensive teaching and support by a Clinical Nurse Educator available on every Unit at LRH Seven paid study days for graduate nurses in the nursing stream, and nine paid study days for graduate nurse/midwives in the nursing/midwifery stream Extensive in-service programs throughout the Hospital Regular clinical appraisals to provide you with feedback, provide assistance and document your progress Salary packaging and meal reimbursement available Positions are eight days per fortnight Very good employment prospects at the end of the program Significant career opportunities at LRH Eligibility to apply for the Discovery Program (a transition program) at the end of the graduate year. Excellent opportunities to take on postgraduate studies at LRH Celebration and presentation of Graduate Nurse/Midwifery Program Certificate on completion of the program 5

10 2. INFORMATION ABOUT THE GRADUATE NURSE & MIDWIFERY PROGRAMS a) Starting Dates and Sizes of Intakes There will be more than 45 graduate positions at Latrobe Regional Hospital in 2014 Graduate Nurse Program (Nursing Stream) 39 Graduate Nurses will commence in two intakes. The first intake will commence in January, and the second intake will commence in May Every effort is made to give Graduates their choice of intake Collaborative Graduate Nurse Programs (Nursing Stream) Latrobe Regional Hospital and Yarram District Health Service: two Graduate Nurses will commence in April Latrobe Regional Hospital and Latrobe Community Health Service: three Graduate Nurses will commence in April Graduate Nurse/Midwife Program (Nursing/Midwifery Stream) Four Graduate Nurse/Midwives will commence in January. These graduates will have both a Bachelor of Nursing and a Bachelor of Midwifery. Graduate Nurse Program - Mental Health Stream Four Graduate Nurses will commence in February 6

11 b) Rotations Graduate Nurse Program (Nursing Stream) We offer rotations through many clinical areas within Latrobe Regional Hospital. The graduate year (12 months) is divided up into three rotations. Rotations are for four months with at least one rotation being a medical or surgical unit to assist you in developing your clinical skills, knowledge and to become part of the unit team We have found that three rotations are the most popular option for Graduate Nurses. This will enable you to gain solid experience in several areas, whilst in the supported Graduate Nurse Program You will spend four months in a medical or surgical unit, either an additional four months in a medical or surgical unit, or in a rehabilitation unit, and four months in a specialty unit The medical or surgical rotations will be in one of the following areas: Tanjil - Surgical and Medical Unit, Tyers Medical and Palliative Care Unit, or Tarra - Orthopaedic Unit The rehabilitation rotation will be in one of the following areas: Nicholson GEM (Geriatric Evaluation and Management), or Nicholson Rehabilitation The specialty rotation will be in one of the following areas: Chemotherapy, Critical Care Unit, Day Surgery, Emergency Department, Flynn - Acute Mental Health Unit, Private Gippsland Consulting Suite Haemodialysis, Health Independence Program Hospital in the Home, Operating Suite (including Day Surgery) We will attempt to provide you with, but cannot guarantee, rotations in your preferred areas Information about the medical and surgical units The Tyers and Tanjil units each have 30 beds. The Tarra unit has 26 beds. The Tyers unit has 22 acute medical beds, four stroke beds and four palliative care beds. The Tanjil unit has a mix of acute surgical and acute medical beds. The Tarra unit has up to 22 orthopaedic beds and up to eight paediatric beds. 7

12 Rotations in the Tyers, Tanjil and Tarra units will focus on the development of skills and knowledge in person centred care, responsibility, time management, teamwork, recognition and management of acutely ill patients, and pharmacology. There will be opportunities to participate in a wide range of medical and surgical scenarios with excellent support from each unit team. Collaborative Graduate Nurse Programs (Nursing Stream) Latrobe Regional Hospital and Yarram District Health Service Graduates will spend six months in each health service. The six months at Latrobe Regional Hospital will be in Tanjil (medical/surgical). The six months at Yarram District Health Service will be spent in Acute Medical, Urgent Care, district nursing and palliative care. Latrobe Regional Hospital and Latrobe Community Health Service Graduates will spend eight months at Latrobe Regional Hospital and four months at Latrobe Community Health Service. In the eight months at Latrobe Regional Hospital, graduates will spend four months in Tyers and four months in Tanjil. In the four months at Latrobe Community Health Service, graduates will work in district nursing and community palliative care. Graduate Nurse/Midwife Program (Nursing/Midwifery Stream) Two rotations will take place in the Thomson unit (women s health unit) and two rotations will take place in the Tyers, Tanjil or Tarra units (medical or surgical units). Information about the Thomson unit The unit has eighteen beds consisting of four women s health beds, 14 midwifery beds and six Level Two Special Care Nursery cots. The services provided include inpatient antenatal, postnatal, labour, and care of the sick neonate. Outpatient services include Domiciliary, Outreach, Breast Feeding Support, Pre-admission and a sharedcare Ante-natal clinic. The Thomson Unit is a regional referral service for the women of Gippsland and provides all care for pregnancy, birth and gynaecological surgery, except where referral to a tertiary centre is required. Rotations The midwifery rotations will focus on antenatal, postnatal and labour. There will be opportunities to participate in a wide range of midwifery and obstetric scenarios with excellent support from the Thomson team. Graduates will start working in either a nursing or a midwifery rotation. After three months they will rotate to the other discipline. After a further three months, they will rotate back to the original discipline. The final rotation will be spent in the same 8

13 place as the second rotation. For example, graduate A starts in Thomson for three months, rotates to Tanjil for three months, then back to Thomson for three months, then back to Tanjil for three months. Mental Health Stream Participants have structured clinical rotations. The rotations will be within the inpatient settings to enhance skill-based learning and knowledge. The rotations may include placements in the Adult In-Patient Unit, Adult Secure Extended Care Unit, Community Residential Care Units and Acute Aged In-Patient Unit. Within these inpatient rotations there are supernumerary placements in the community setting. Currently on offer are rotations in the Community Adult, Aged and Child and Youth Teams, and the Consultation Liaison/Emergency Department Team. Participants will be given a calendar of clinical rotations. There are opportunities for community placements in many of our teams across Gippsland with consideration given to where the applicant lives. c) Clinical Support Supernumerary Time This is time where you will share your patient load with your Preceptor, while becoming orientated to you new workplace. Supernumerary time varies from one to eight days at the beginning of each rotation. Clinical Nurse Educators Clinical Nurse Educators are available at Latrobe Regional Hospital to provide support and teaching each weekday between 8.00am 4.00pm. Preceptorship You will be allocated one or two experienced Preceptor(s) at the beginning of each rotation. This will enable you to develop knowledge and skills in a safe and supportive environment. Besides your Preceptor, you will find that other staff members are willing to answer your questions and assist you. Peer Consultation These are regular confidential meetings organised by the Graduate Program Coordinator for Graduate Nurses and Midwives to discuss issues, defuse, learn from each other, and give support to each other. The Graduate Program Coordinator can assist to resolve any issues as they arise. 9

14 Peer Support Program at Latrobe Regional Hospital This is where colleagues help each other deal with normal reactions to stressful events. This program includes one-on-one listening and support in a confidential way from another staff member, defusing, critical incident stress management and debriefing. Employee Assistance Program at Latrobe Regional Hospital The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a professional, free, confidential advice service that can assist staff in dealing with a wide range of personal and/or workrelated problems. The EAP service is an impartial and objective service and is designed for early assistance to avoid major issues developing and to prevent a problem reaching crisis point. Nursing and Midwifery Health Program Victoria (NMHP) This is a free, confidential service independent of the hospital, led by nurses for nurses and midwives with any mental health concerns or substance use issues. Mental health concerns can include anxiety or depression, issues at home impacting on one s ability to work, and issues at work impacting on one s ability to cope. d) Remuneration All Graduate Nurses / Midwives employed at LRH are remunerated according to the Nurses and Midwives (Victorian Public Sector) (Single Interest Employers) Enterprise Agreement Graduate nurses and midwives (who have not been enrolled nurses before) currently receive $26.55 per hour of work. This is augmented by penalty rates. Graduate Nurse/Midwives may also apply for a qualification allowance which will augment their fortnightly income. This is identical to how Graduate Nurses / Midwives are paid in all other Victorian public hospitals and health services. Enrolled nurses who have become registered nurses or midwives may receive a higher hourly rate; this depends on their income previously. Work Hours You will be contracted to work eight shifts per fortnight. You will find that you can work more shifts per fortnight on some units, as demand for staffing can increase with replacing staff who are on sick leave, etc. Shift hours vary, but on most units you will be asked to work morning, afternoon, night and weekend shifts. Some units do not stay open overnight, or on weekends, so you may be asked to work morning and afternoon shifts or only weekdays if you are rotating through these. 10

15 The Contract All Graduate Nurses and Midwives in all of the streams will be offered a fixed-term contract for one year. Employment prospects after the year are very good. Graduate Nurses and Midwives in the Collaborative Programs will be offered fixedterm contracts for the time they are working at each health facility. For example, a graduate employed in the Collaborative Latrobe Regional Hospital & Yarram District Health Service Program would have two six month contracts, one from April October 2015, and the other from October 2015 April Employment prospects after the year are very good. Annual Leave The graduate will accrue five weeks of annual leave during the year, of which four weeks are to be taken at set times during the year. Graduates may use the fifth week to cover unplanned leave (e.g. sick leave), carry it over to the next year (if they continue to be employed by the same organisation), or be paid out (i.e. paid for the fifth week at the end of the contract). Sick Leave Graduates earn up to 12 days pro-rata of paid sick leave in the graduate year. A person who works full time will earn 8 hours per month. A person who works 0.8 EFT (eight days per fortnight) will earn 6.4 hours per month. Salary Packaging This is a system to maximise savings by reducing the total tax paid on income and benefits. You can nominate to pay for some goods and services with your pre-tax income, and this can increase your take home pay substantially. Examples of some of the goods and services include health insurance, general insurance, loan repayments, rent payments, credit cards, school fees, child minding expenses, council rates, water rates & telephone accounts. You then pay tax only on the remainder of your earnings. 11

16 e) Study Days Nursing Stream Graduate Nurse Program & Nursing Stream Collaborative Graduate Nurse Programs There are seven Graduate Nurse study days throughout the year that you are paid to attend. The topics for the study days are chosen because of their clinical usefulness to you in your Graduate year. The hospital now has an excellent simulation learning centre, which is used frequently for study days. The topics include (but are not limited to): Basic Life Support training & assessment (paediatric and adult) Blood and blood product transfusion Central Venous Access Devices Chemotherapy Chest pain management Clinical instability criteria and medical emergencies Cytotoxic management Diabetes care and management Electro-cardiographs Epidural & regional pain management Equipment familiarisation Infection control Intravenous cannulation Library: searches & services Not for cardio-pulmonary resuscitation Pharmacology sessions at every study day Picking up patients from the Emergency Department Preparing patients for Theatre, and delivering patients to and picking them up from Theatre Pressure injury prevention & management Professional skills, such as communication, problem solving, time management, decision making, ethics, legal requirements and work/life balance Wound management Graduate Nurse/Midwife Program and Collaborative Graduate Nurse/Midwife Programs (Nursing/Midwifery Stream) There are nine Graduate Nurse and Midwife study days throughout the year that you are paid to attend. Your study days will cover the core requirements for a graduate nurse and midwife. The topics for the study days will include most of the nursing topics, and midwifery topics such as: Complex CTG s management & understanding Obstetric emergencies Complicated labour 12

17 Unwell baby Neonatal resuscitation Jaundice Hypoglycaemia/hypothermia Breastfeeding & Parentcraft Self care FDIU Stillbirth Neonatal death Social Issues & mental health Mental Health Stream There is a comprehensive orientation program and study days provided throughout the program, and the key topics may include: Annual Mandatory Training Requirements Applied Suicide Intervention and Skills Training (ASIST) Assessment, Formulation & Treatment/Care Planning CARE training Children of a Parent with Mental Illness (CoPMI) Cultural & Gender Sensitivity Communication and Non-Violent Response Education (CARE) Documentation Dual Diagnosis Gender sensitive practice Library Services Mental Health Act 2014 Mental Status Examination (MSE) Online Learning Packages Policies and Procedures Psychopharmacology Recovery Model of care Research Skills Risk assessment and formulation Specialty Mental Health Programs Trauma Informed Care 13

18 f) Assessment Each Graduate Nurse and Midwife is assessed both at a clinical and theoretical level Nursing & Nursing/Midwifery Streams The Graduate Nurse & Midwifery Program Coordinator, Clinical Nurse Educator, Clinical Supervisor or Preceptor will complete your clinical appraisal for each rotation with your Nurse Unit Manager. All Graduates will be expected to complete: A basic life support practical test Neonatal basic life support workbook and practical test (midwives only) An Emergency Procedures question sheet A No-lift assessment An aseptic technique assessment On-line Competencies, knowledge tests in the following areas: Basic life support Medication administration Manual handling Nursing OH & S Falls prevention Infection control Learning packages: Breast feeding learning package (midwives only) Medication administration On-line blood transfusion learning package On-line hand hygiene learning package Other learning packages available in many areas Certain skills depending on your areas of work, such as epidural care, intravenous cannulation, or accessing implantable central venous ports Mental Health Stream Each participant is assessed at a clinical and theoretical level. Participants submit objectives for each clinical rotation. These are reviewed with the Preceptor and/or the Clinical Nurse Educator (CNE) at the beginning of, during, and at the completion of each rotation. An appraisal by the Participant, Preceptor, and the CNE is completed for each clinical rotation. The participant also keeps a clinical portfolio of all clinical learning opportunities and a reflective practice journal. Theoretical assessment consists of written assignments, computer conference exercises, an examination and skills assessment that are submitted and assessed by the subject coordinators at LaTrobe University. 14

19 3. YOUR APPLICATION AND OUR RECRUITMENT PROCESS We are looking for Graduates who are committed to providing high quality personcentred care, enjoy working within a team, communicate well with patients and other staff, keen to ask questions, learn from feedback, and want to learn and expand their knowledge base. Please note that we read all applications While we prefer applications that are neat and well presented, we do not require your application to have been prepared at great expense (i.e. not on expensive paper, nor to have been prepared by a professional business). Please read the Registered Nurse and / or Midwife position description (this can be accessed via our web site on and be prepared to address some of the key selection criteria in your application / cover letter. a) Application and Résumé The Application Form This form asks for specific information, and tells you exactly what is needed to apply for the graduate programs. You can download this form from the hospital website: We would like you to provide a small photo of yourself as this assists us in recognising you, and in establishing a connection with you. Your Cover Letter A one two page letter is usual. Please make sure you address it to the right person, and ensure that your letter is tailored to the right hospital. You may handwrite or type the letter. Your letter needs to state why you want to be in the particular Graduate Program at Latrobe Regional Hospital (e.g: you live in the area, are a double degree midwife, have heard good reports of the program, are interested in pursuing a career in mental health, community nursing, rural nursing, etc., or you worked here as a student and enjoyed the environment, and so on). It also needs to show us what you will contribute to the hospital. The types of things that students in previous years have written include: I have good interpersonal skills with patients and staff I like working in a team environment, and my current employment has given me a lot of opportunities to do this I am enthusiastic about learning I have a friendly nature I like to show initiative, for example I am interested in learning more about 15

20 It would be helpful for you to address the selection criteria in the position description (this can be found at: You do not need to address 5.1 Key Competencies, as your clinical reports will demonstrate this. You do need to address 5.2 Personal Attributes. Show how you demonstrate at least one or two of the selection criteria by giving brief examples. Your Résumé A résumé usually consists of 2-3 pages. Place your contact details at the head of the first page, including your address. Ensure your phone number enables the caller to contact you or to leave a message. Education and qualifications additional to your undergraduate degree. Write what these are and when they were gained. The type of education we are interested in are skills you can use in the graduate program, e.g. attendance at a communication workshop or an epidural workshop, competency in accessing implantable ports, etc. The qualifications we are interested in are things such as an Enrolled Nurse Certificate, personal care qualifications, or any other qualification that might be a transferable skill to nursing or midwifery. These can be qualifications that are not related to the healthcare industry, but demonstrate your commitment to learning. Employment history Write these in reverse chronological order (starting from the most recent employment). Try to explain any gaps (e.g. you were a full-time student, travelled overseas, or full-time parent, etc.). Some people summarise the skills they developed in previous employment. If you had a career before you started nursing, you can summarise what you did, e.g. Electrician for 10 years. Clinical placements List your placements in reverse chronological order. If the title of the placement is not self-explanatory, then explain what type of placement it was, e.g. Tyers Unit (medical/palliative). Referees Please provide the details of three professional referees: At least one of your referees should be a manager from your workplace o If this is not possible, let the Graduate Program Coordinator know At least one of your referees should be a clinical nurse educator or preceptor from your clinical placement We prefer referees who have worked with you recently 16

21 Ensure that you have your referee s permission (it sounds really professional when they say, Oh yes, she asked me to be her referee or, I remember him ). Write down the referee s position currently, and also what it was when they worked with you if it has changed, e.g. Associate Unit Manager Tyers Unit (Clinical Preceptor on clinical placement). Make certain that your referee will be available to be contacted throughout August and September. You might also like to provide your referee with a copy of your résumé, and ask your referee what types of things they will say about you Academic transcript For your application, an on-line Study statement from your university will be sufficient, but you can send us a hard copy of your most up-to-date academic transcript at any stage. Your academic transcript needs to be signed by a university School of Nursing &/or Midwifery staff member as a copy of an original document that they have sighted. We will ask you to provide a copy of your most up-to-date academic transcript when you are invited for interview (if you have not already provided it). Please ensure you include the key so we can interpret the result. Clinical appraisals Three recent clinical reports are required, and final year reports are definitely preferred. Please ensure they are readable when scanned (if you are applying online). Please note, four appraisals are preferred from applicants for the nursing/midwifery programs: two nursing appraisals and two midwifery appraisals. b) The Interview The interviews will be conducted during August and September, with the exception of the Mental Health Stream, where interviews will commence in July. Graduate Nurse Program (Nursing Stream) Your interview will be a Multiple Mini Interview (MMI), and will take around an hour to complete These interviews will be conducted in late August and early September, and are held in the evening, from PM. Multiple Mini Interviews (MMI) are being used for candidates who apply for the Graduate Nurse Program (Nursing Stream). The aim of MMI s is to gain a reasonably accurate picture of your strengths and weaknesses. This form of interviewing eliminates the advantage or disadvantage of knowing the interviewer. You are able to bring a small page of notes to the interview, if you would prefer to. You are also able to take notes during the Multiple Mini Interviews. 17

22 You will have several brief interviews with different interviewers in a speed dating type of format. The MMI will consist of five different stations, and you will spend 10 minutes at each one. Each station has a single interviewer. There will be short break at the end of each station for you to prepare for the next station. Questions will be based on the Australian Nursing & Midwifery Council National Competency Standards for the Registered Nurse (2006) and will be a mix of short scenarios and behavioural questions. Behavioural questions ask for an example of your ability with either communication, reflection, team work, problem solving, initiative, or planning and organising. You really need to think of examples before the interview, as it s very hard to think of these examples under pressure. You are able to read the questions before and during each interview station. There are no wrong answers; you are just expected to discuss the scenarios. You will be asked several questions relating to each scenario and given specific prompts if needed. You will have 10 minutes to answer the questions about each scenario. After that time a bell will ring and you will be directed to the next interview station. At one station, you will be asked some questions regarding your application: Why you have chosen LRH for your Graduate Year What you will bring to the hospital Where you would prefer to have your rotations, and Whether you have any particular interests You will be asked a reflective question about a time when you weren t really happy with the way you handled something. We are interested in how you would (or did) change your actions next time. You can provide an example from any area you wish, e.g. work, placement, University, sporting activity, etc. If you would like more information on the MMI s, you can attend the Information Evening on Thursday 5 June 2014, or contact the Graduate Nurse and Midwifery Program Coordinator on (03) , or [email protected] Graduate Nurse/Midwife Program (Nursing/Midwifery Stream) Your interview will take about 30 minutes. The interview panel will consist of the Graduate Nurse & Midwifery Program Coordinator and the Midwifery Unit Manager or Midwifery Clinical Nurse Educator. Interview Questions Be prepared to answer questions along the following lines: Why you want to work at LRH How your employment in the past has prepared you for nursing/midwifery What specialty areas of nursing / midwifery you might be interested in A specific time when you have not been really pleased with your work performance. We would like you to outline that time, and what you did about it to improve your work performance for next time. 18

23 Four scenario type questions will be based on the Australian Nursing & Midwifery Council National Competency Standards for the Midwife (2006). Collaborative Graduate Nurse Program (Nursing Stream) Your interview will take about 30 minutes. The interview panel will consist of the following people: Latrobe Regional Hospital & Yarram District Health Service Collaborative Program: Graduate Nurse Program Coordinators of both hospitals Latrobe Regional Hospital & Latrobe Community Health Service: the Graduate Program Coordinator from LRH, and the Manager Ambulatory Care from LCHS If you have applied for both collaborative Nursing Stream programs, you will have one interview, with a representative from Latrobe Regional Hospital, Yarram District Health Service and Latrobe Community Health Be prepared to answer questions along the following lines: Why you want to work in this particular collaborative program Your understanding of what community nursing involves A specific time when you have not been really pleased with your work performance. We would like you to outline that time, and what you did (or would do) about it to improve your work performance for next time. Clinical scenarios based on the Australian Nursing & Midwifery Council National Competency Standards for the Registered Nurse (2006). Graduate Nurse Program - Mental Health Stream The interview will broadly evaluate your knowledge of mental health issues and practice along with your desired interest in mental health. Your interview will be a Multiple Mini Interview (MMI), and will take around an hour to complete Interviews will be held between July and September. 19

24 d) Notification of Appointment Graduate Nurse Programs and Graduate Nurse/Midwifery Programs (Nursing and Nursing/Midwifery Streams) The Graduate Nurse & Midwifery Program Coordinator will notify you on Monday 13 October 2014, (by letter and phone). The Postgraduate Medical Council of Victoria will also notify you on the 13 October (through the website Graduate Nurse Program - Mental Health Stream The Graduate Diploma Program Coordinator will notify you of the results of your application prior to the 18 September (the last day you can withdraw from the Computer Match process). This is because the Mental Health Stream is not participating in the Nurse Computer Match process. If you decide to accept a position with the Mental Health Stream, you will need to inform the Postgraduate Medical Council of Victoria by the 18 September (via login by 5.00 PM). Otherwise your name may be matched to another health service. This will mean that you have a position you do not want, and you will have taken the opportunity from another graduate nurse who really wanted this position. 20

25 4. EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AFTER THE GRADUATE YEAR While ongoing employment in a specific area cannot be guaranteed after the Graduate Program is completed, employment opportunities at the hospital are very good. Previous graduate nurses are currently employed in permanent positions in women s health, medical/palliative care, medical/surgical, orthopaedic /paediatric, rehabilitation, Emergency Department, Operating Suite and various mental health program areas. Nurse/Midwives also have good employment opportunities with graduate nurse/midwives being employed in permanent positions in the women s health unit, surgical unit and /or the Operating Suite. Over the past several years, most nurses and midwives completing the Graduate Program have been offered employment. Over 90% have chosen to remain at Latrobe Regional Hospital. Graduate Nurse Programs & Graduate Nurse/Midwifery Programs (Nursing and Nursing/Midwifery Streams) In September, all Graduate Nurses and Midwives are invited to participate in a job matching process, if they are interested in ongoing employment at Latrobe Regional Hospital. Job matching works by matching graduate s preferences for employment with available positions. Most graduates are offered permanent positions at the end of the Graduate Program in the medical/palliative care unit, medical/surgical unit, orthopaedic/paediatric unit, rehabilitation units, women s health, Emergency Department and Operating Suite. Graduates may also apply for positions in other units at the end of the graduate year. A transition program, the Discovery Program is offered to nurses who have completed the Graduate Nurse or Midwifery Program. The Discovery Program provides a supported 12-month learning and working program in Critical Care, Emergency, or the Operating Suite (see details below). Graduate Nurse Program - Mental Health Stream Employment opportunities are excellent after the Graduate Year. Nurses are currently employed in permanent positions in all areas of mental health, including inpatient and community settings and specialist programs at Latrobe Regional Hospital. In order to gain permanent employment, you will be required to complete (as a minimum) the Postgraduate Diploma in Mental Health Nursing. 21

26 6. DISCOVERY PROGRAM, ONGOING EDUCATION & POSTGRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES Discovery Program The Discovery Program provides experience in certain departments over one year, for nurses and nurse/midwives to develop their knowledge and skills, and take the opportunity to see if they would like to work in certain departments. Extensive clinical and teaching support is provided throughout each rotation, including orientation time, study days, and theoretical work. The program is intended for nurses and nurse/midwives who are registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), and who have at least twelve months experience or more in nursing or nursing/midwifery. All nurses and nurse/midwives who have completed a Graduate Nurse or Midwifery Program will be eligible to apply for a position in the Discovery Program. The Discovery Program runs over one year, in one of the following units: Critical Care Unit Emergency Department Operating Suite Ongoing Education Latrobe Regional Hospital has a large focus on education and support for all staff. Inservices are conducted in all departments on a frequent basis in the Hospital. Current ongoing education is available as courses, learning packages and seminars, and includes as a sample: ACCN accredited Advanced Life Support Advanced Clinical Nursing Skills course Basic Life Support Blood transfusion education 22

27 Breastfeeding Central venous access devices Chemotherapy Communication CTG s Diabetes management ECG course Epidural & regional pain management course Foetal surveillance program Grief and Loss Haemodynamic monitoring Interpreter services I.V. Cannulation course Legal workshops Mechanical Ventilation Course Mock medical emergency management Neonatal Resuscitation No-lift Not for CPR Obstetric Emergency workshop Orthopaedics Paediatric education program Pain management Palliative care Pharmacology Preceptorship workshops & updates Recognition and management of the deteriorating patient Reflective practice The use of water in labour Trauma nursing course Venipuncture Ventilation course Wound management Postgraduate Studies Latrobe Regional Hospital is affiliated with Federation University and Monash University, and has agreements with many other Universities. Clinical Educators, tutorials, study leave, and examination leave support postgraduate studies. Postgraduate courses currently include: Children s Nursing Emergency High Dependency Midwifery Palliative Care Rehabilitation Critical Care Gerontology Mental Health Orthopaedics Peri-operative 23

28 7. SERVICES Accommodation Limited, temporary accommodation is available on-site at Latrobe Regional Hospital. Prices are very reasonable. Please contact the Graduate Nurse & Midwifery Program Coordinator on Tel: (03) or for more information. There are three caravan parks near the hospital with units available for overnight stays as well as more permanent accommodation. The contact details are: Tandara Caravan Park (03) Village Caravan Park (03) Park Lane Tourist Park: toll free Rental and properties for purchase are plentiful in the area. Real Estate Offices will be able to assist Graduate Nurses / Midwives moving to the area. You can search for these properties via the internet, or contact the Graduate Nurse & Midwifery Program Coordinator if you would like any details on Tel: (03) , or [email protected] Car Parking Car parking is on-site and free. Public Transport Public transport is provided by a bus service from surrounding local towns. It runs from 6.00 AM 5.30 PM. This is useful for morning shifts, but private transport is required to attend evening and night shifts. Nursing, Allied Health & Medical Library The Library is affiliated with Monash University and is staffed by a full-time Librarian. The Library has an extensive range of Acute Medical, nursing and allied health journals, texts, audiovisual materials, Internet access, and databases, along with the Clinicians Health Channel. Interlibrary loans can be arranged. 24

29 8. FURTHER INFORMATION Graduate Nurse Program and Graduate Nurse/Midwifery Programs (Nursing and Nursing/Midwifery Streams) Jennie Wood, Graduate Nurse & Midwifery Program Coordinator, Tel: (03) / (03) , or [email protected] Lorraine Keene, Education Coordinator, Tel: (03) / (03) , or [email protected] Rosemary Parker, Clinical Midwifery/Nurse Educator, Tel: (03) , or [email protected] Collaborative Graduate Nurse Program between Latrobe Regional Hospital and Latrobe Community Health Service Naomi Griffiths, Assistant Manager Ambulatory Care, Latrobe Community Health Service, Tel: (03) , or [email protected] Collaborative Graduate Nurse Program between Latrobe Regional Hospital and Yarram District Health Service Mr Robert Barker, Director of Nursing, Yarram & District Health Service, available until 30 June, Tel: (03) , [email protected] Ms Rebecca Reynolds, Clinical Nurse Educator, Yarram & District Health Service, available Mondays & Tuesdays, Tel: (03) , [email protected] Graduate Nurse Program - Mental Health Stream For further information about the Mental Health Stream, please contact: To be advised, Postgraduate Diploma Program Coordinator, Tel: (03) , or [email protected] Linda Waters, Psychiatric Nurse Consultant/Manager, Tel: (03) , [email protected] To be advised, Undergraduate Coordinator, Tel: (03) or [email protected] 25

30 9. WHERE YOU WILL FIND US 26

31 Latrobe Regional Hospital Graduate Nurse & Midwifery Programs 2015 Photo APPLICATION FORM This form is meant to be filled in electronically. If preferred, you can print out this form and fill it in by hand. 1. Your personal details Surname: Given Names: Term address: Home address: Phone: Mobile: 2 nd (if applicable): 2. Please indicate which program(s) you are applying for: Nursing Stream Programs: Graduate Nurse Program Collaborative Graduate Nurse Program with Yarram District Health Service Collaborative Graduate Nurse Program with Latrobe Community Health Service Dual Nursing/Midwifery Stream Program Mental Health Stream Program 3. Graduating Institution: 4. Hospital, Unit & approximate date where major clinical placements undertaken (as applicable): Medical: Surgical: Mental Health: Midwifery: 27

32 5. Three Referees (preferably at least one should be a current employer, and at least one a supervisor from a recent clinical placement) Name Position Workplace Phone No: (Daytime) Name Position Workplace Phone No: (Daytime) Name Position Workplace Phone No: (Daytime) 6. Application Checklist (applications due by Thursday the 24 July 2014) Visit the LRH website, click on Careers at LRH, then on Current Vacancies, then either register or login to view and apply for Graduate Program positions ( Please submit online: Completed Application form Photo Cover letter Résumé, including your contact details, work history, & a list of your clinical placements Your Academic transcript (verified by a member of the School of Nursing & Midwifery). Recent clinical appraisals: 3 for student nurses; 4 for student nurse/midwives Nursing Stream applicants & Nursing/Midwifery Stream applicants: You also need to apply online to the Postgraduate Medical Council of Victoria Nurse Computer Match service ( 7. Forwarding details & Enquiries Nursing Stream Applicants & Nursing/Midwifery Stream Applicants: Jennie Wood /Graduate Nurse & Midwifery Program Coordinator Staff Development Unit, Latrobe Regional Hospital PO Box 424 Traralgon VIC 3844 Phone: (03) or ; [email protected] Mental Health Stream Applicants: Postgraduate Diploma Program Coordinator Mental Health Professional Development Unit Latrobe Regional Hospital PO Box 424 Traralgon VIC 3844 Phone: [email protected] 28