Rural and Remote Nursing Far West LHD Base Hospital Transition to Practice (RN) Programs 2012 Experience Enjoy The
Overview Far West Local Health District Transition to Practice Programs (New Graduate RN) Far West LHD offers a number of different transitional programs including: Base Hospital Program Rural & Remote Program These programs are designed to give a broad range of clinical experiences in order to equip newly registered nurses with the necessary skills and confidence required to practice as a competent registered nurse. There is a strong focus on the special skills required by registered nurses practicing in rural and regional settings, which enhances and consolidates your nursing knowledge. All of our programs are available either part-time or fulltime with some flexibility regarding clinical rotations. Advantages and Supports for Far West LHD Transitional RNs Preceptor support and support from other Registered Nurses in all departments The opportunity to acquire ward management skills in all clinical rotation. In the Base Hospital and other sites the transitional nurse is rostered on as the second or third registered nurse on duty at all times Tailored Development plans, Clinical Competency Workbook and Professional Portfolio Formal orientation program to the Far West LHD and the Hospital as well as individual orientation to all clinical rotations 5 Study days throughout the year A very social workplace A large number of self learning and e-learning packages Access to post graduate programs Locally based Clinical Nurse Educators at Broken Hill Hospital and a Regional Nurse Educator for the remote sites. 2
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Base Hospital Transition to Practice (RN) Programs Broken Hill Base Hospital is a large referral facility providing most health care services including Emergency, Coronary & Intensive care, Operating Theatres, Oncology, Palliative Care, Maternity, Paediatrics, Rehabilitation, and Mental Health, as well as general medical and surgical services. Broken Hill is a thriving cosmopolitan service centre for surrounding areas. There are a number of smaller remote facilities in the Far West LHD that participate in Rural and Remote Transition Program. Broken Hill Base Hospital Health Facilities within the Far West Local Health District are Balranald, Broken Hill, Ivanhoe, Menindee, Tibooburra, Wentworth and Wilcannia. Some of which participate in the program. 4
Base Hospital Transition to Practice (RN) Programs Program Structure Our philosophy is to recognise each transitional RN (New Graduate) as a unique practitioner who requires support and encouragement to maximise professional development. The Base Hospital provides a 12 month program to transitional RNs with opportunities for nursing experience in a variety of clinical settings. Clinical Rotations While each facility varies slightly, generally the Base Hospital provides 2 rotations in the course of the program (six monthly rotations) and clinical areas which may include: Clinical rotations through Medical, Surgical Optional rotations in Critical Care, Emergency depending on availability Optional rotation to a rural and remote facility Optional rotation to inpatient mental health unit Optional Operating Theatre rotation depending on availability There is a maximum of four, 12 week rotations, although 6, 9 and 12 month rotations will be considered through negotiation. Please contact facility directly for more specific information. 5
Broken Hill Base Hospital Broken Hill Health Service Broken Hill Base Hospital is an 88 bed facility that services the far west of NSW. It is the major referral centre in the area for surrounding communities, receiving patients via road transport or the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Services Medical, Surgical, Emergency, Paediatrics, Aged Care, Community Health, Aboriginal Health, Intensive/Coronary Care, Obstetrics, Oncology, Operating Theatres, Day Surgery, Mental Health, Primary Health, Diabetes and Renal Services. Broken Hill City Broken Hill is a diverse and interesting place, full of contrasts and activity. 'The Silver City', has evolved in the harsh, arid outback from a mining community steeped in industrial history and traditions to a tourist destination renowned for its artists and galleries. Broken Hill is a renowned venue for movies and commercial filming and for the most breathtaking sunsets over the Mundi Mundi Plains. Tourism is a significant development in the region with Mutawintji and Kinchega National Parks within a few hours. A little further, by dirt road, is the Sturt National Park and Cameron's Corner. The Menindee Lakes Scheme is 100km south and provides an agricultural industry as well as water sports, fishing and camping. The artistic community gained worldwide recognition with the Brushmen of the Bush and Broken Hill now boasts more than 20 art galleries including Pro Hart s collection. This extends to Silverton, a mining ghost town 25km from Broken Hill. It is at Silverton that movies like Mad Max and a Town Like Alice as well as many commercials have been filmed. 6km out of town, The Sculptures rest atop the hills of the Living Desert Reserve where bush walks, picnic facilities and spectacular scenery attract thousands of people every year. More information regarding Broken Hill can be found at: www.visitbrokenhill.com.au Broken Hill Base Hospital Contact: Clinical Nurse Educator Phone: (08) 8080 1521 Click here to send email 6
Accommodation Accommodation Accommodation is available at most facilities within the LHD. Accommodation varies between facilities and range includes: 1 & 2 bedroom self contained apartments Single room in fully shared house Single room in traditional Nurses quarters Most accommodation comprises of shared facilities (bathrooms, lounge rooms, kitchenettes and laundry), and central heating. Basic cutlery, crockery, cooking utensils, linen and towels are provided, or alternatively staff may use their own Most accommodation is not suitable for couples and families Most locations have residential rental properties available through local real estate agents. Cost As per current NSW Nurses Award; approximately $65 per week (2011). Childcare Home based and/or centre based childcare is available in most communities. 7
Applications Transition to Practice Programs commence in the Western NSW and Far West LHD in February and August each year. Other commencement dates are negotiable. If you would like further information regarding Transition to Practice Programs or facilities. Please contact: Coordinator Registered Nurse Programs Nursing and Midwifery Directorate Western NSW LHD Ph: (02) 6370 7806 Fax: (02) 6372 7465 Click here to send email Applications must be lodged via the NSW Health Nursing & Midwifery Website: www.health.nsw.gov.au/nursing Applications for Commencement 2012: Open Monday 6th June 2011 and close 9am Monday 18th July 2011. Outside advertised closing dates, applications are subject to vacancies and should be lodged directly via the Local Health District website. www.gwahs.nsw.gov.au/nursing 8