NS4001 - Skills 1: Preparation for nursing associate practice

In this module you will engage in a diverse range of learning and teaching methods to support your learning in the development of fundamental skills relevant to nursing associate practice. These will include Online Supported Learning (OSL), low and high fidelity simulated practice environments, using manikins and other procedural equipment will provide a comprehensive, hands-on approach to your nursing associate education. Additionally, you will have access to specialised online resources, including the Skills4Practice website, to further support your learning.
Collaborative seminars will offer opportunities to work with peers, fostering deeper knowledge and understanding. The blend of OSL and face-to-face practical sessions ensures that you will develop and rehearse essential nursing associate skills, with a focus on building proficiency and enhancing competence in key areas of practice.

You will be supported by a specialist module team. You will receive ongoing guidance and feedback to ensure you are able to engage with concepts of safe nursing associate practice. You will be expected to engage with the OSL packages in preparation for face-to-face teaching, group work activities and discussion. You will be able to contact the module team in person, by email, by telephone and through the Blackboard. Skills Plus, the university library’s collection of online learning materials can be used to support the development of your academic skills. Further support for your learning is provided with a 24-hour IT Helpline, a comprehensive range of services through the Student Support and Wellbeing Team and the university’s student portal, which gives help and advice on student enquiries such as disability, faith, counselling, mental health support, finance, assessments, and welfare issues. You can access these services via email on your student portal, by telephone or through the help desk staff based within university libraries.

You will also support each other via peer support, through engaging in discussion and debate to enhance your learning. Additional relevant materials, including the electronic reading list and other teaching and learning methods will be available via eLP and library services. The university libraries at both Coach Lane Campus and City Campus offer an extensive collection of material, both hard copy and electronic, access to international databases and training in information retrieval. All support will be in line with any Student Accessibility Plan (SAP).

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)

Knowledge & understanding:
2.

Apply the principles of safe, evidence-based, person-centred care through effective communication, professionalism, and self-awareness. Support collaborative decision-making with patients, families, and carers while integrating biological, social, and behavioural sciences in nursing associate practice
Intellectual / professional skills & abilities
2Develop skills that will enable you to take, record, and interpret vital signs which includes developing knowledge and understanding on normal and abnormal physiological parameters.
3Develop the foundations of professional communication skills to accurately and effectively communicate with individuals of all ages.
4Develop communication skills that will enable you to participate effectively as part of the multi-disciplinary team
Personal values attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
5..
5 Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and adherence to ethical, legal, and professional standards to ensure safe, compassionate, and inclusive care. Uphold dignity, independence, rights, and choice while advocating for equitable healthcare and maintaining patient safety

Formative assessment:
The opportunity to receive formative feedback on your vital observation assessment skills in preparation for the summative will be via a peer-assessed Observed Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE). (MLO 1-5)


Summative assessment: Pass/fail
The summative assessment will be a 20-minute 2-station OSCE. Station 1 will involve taking a set of vital observations and station 2 performing an SBAR handover.
Immediate retrieval will be offered in station one if no more than one observation is recorded incorrectly.
A pass is required at both stations to pass the assessment. (MLO 1-5)

N/A

N/A

This module initiates the development of your communication and nursing associate procedure skills, which are necessary for safe, effective, professional practice. The module is designed to introduce you to the essential skills of nursing associate practice, which you will build and develop over your two-year programme of study. Sessions will focus on the rehearsal and practise of a range of nursing associate interventions and assessments that can be applied to the care of people of all ages in different healthcare settings. You will have the opportunities to participate in simulated education utilising a range of specialist technology taught by experts. As you progress through the module you will be encouraged to reflect on your own performance and assess your strengths and weaknesses around your skills development. This learning lays the foundation for safe, professional practice and ultimately a successful career as a nursing associate.