What will I learn on this module?
The content of Nursing Skills 1 will be informed by the proficiency standards outlined in Annex A and B in ‘Future Nurse: standards of proficiency for registered nurse’ (NMC 2018).
The module will introduce the concept of safe nursing practice and the proficiencies nurses need when undertaking the physical assessment of people of all ages. You will learn how to observe and assess people of all ages in terms of symptoms and signs of physical ill health. You will learn how to take, record and interpret a patient’s vital sign and use communication tools to support verbal and written reports. These skills and proficiencies will be supported by opportunities to participate in simulated education utilising a range of specialist technology and taught by experts. These nursing skills are directly relevant to your practice learning and include nursing procedures that are necessary for safe and effective patient care. Before your first placement you will complete a number of mandatory requirements, which will enable you to practice with confidence and ensure patient safety. The learning opportunities in this module are designed to support you to develop knowledge, which will inform the attainment of communication and relationship management skills and nursing procedures as identified as Part 1 in your Ongoing Record of Achievement (ORA).
How will I learn on this module?
You will learn through a variety of methods, which will include Online Supported Learning (OSL), through engagement with a simulated practice environment and ‘taster sessions’ in a clinical practice. Learning will be supplemented by websites and training packages, which will include access to the department’s specialist Skills4Practice website: https://www.s4pwebsite.com/
Engagement in group workshops will encourage you to work collaboratively with peers to build your knowledge and understanding. You will also be provided with the opportunity to link with fellow students in other fields of nursing. This introduces you to the task-work component of teamwork and reflects the realities of delivering effective care for people of all ages in healthcare settings, such as the community, people’s own homes and in-patient clinical setting.
The module will be delivered using a blend of eLP and face-to-face practical sessions, underpinned by online learning resources. The focus of learning will be on rehearsal of nursing skills to build proficiency, develop understanding and enhance competence.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
You will be supported by a specialist module team of lecturers in nursing, midwifery and health. You will receive ongoing guidance and feedback to ensure you are able to engage with concepts of safe nursing practice, the physical health, mental health and wellbeing status of people of all ages, and the academic rigour of the module.
You will also be supported via the modules OSL systems in addition to face-to-face teaching and group work activities and discussion. You will be able to contact the module team in person, by email or phone and through the eLP. 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.
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. All support will be in line with any Student Accessibility Plans (SAP’s).
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
1. Understand the fundamental principles and concepts underpinning safe, evidence-based person-centred care.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
2. Develop skills that will enable you to take, record and interpret vital signs.
3. Develop the foundations of professional communication and assessment skills to accurately assess people of all ages.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
4. Demonstrate professionalism, integrity and an ability to work within recognised professional standards.
How will I be assessed?
Formative:
A practice exam will be available to self-assess your progress in preparation for the summative exam.
MLO 1, 2, 3, 4
Summative:
Summative assessment will be by an unseen examination, 30 questions in total, 120 minutes in duration.
Questions will be a mixture of MCQ and short answer essay/scenario-based questions.
This exam will be sat and invigilated on campus.
Feedback will be provided via Blackboard and via the exam paper.
MLO 1, 2, 3, 4
Pre-requisite(s)
None
Co-requisite(s)
None
Module abstract
Nursing Skills 1 initiates the development of your communication and nursing procedure skills, which are necessary for safe, effective, professional practice. The module is designed to introduce you to the essential skills of nursing practice which you will build and develop over your three-year programme of study. Sessions will focus on the rehearsal and practise of a range of nursing interventions that can be applied to the care of people of all ages and in different healthcare settings. You will have the opportunities to participate in simulated education utilising a range of specialist technology. 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 Registered Nurse.
Course info
UCAS Code B740
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years Full Time
Department Nursing, Midwifery & Health
Location Coach Lane Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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