PROGRAMME HANDBOOK 2016/2017 - University of Plymouth · 2016-11-18 · BSc (Hons) Nursing...

BSc (Hons) Nursing Programme Handbook 2016-2017

Faculty of Health and Human Sciences School of Nursing and Midwifery

BSc (Hons) Nursing

(Adult, Child Health, Mental Health)

Leading to eligibility to apply for Registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council

PROGRAMME HANDBOOK 2016/2017


If you require any part of this publication in larger print, or an alternative format, please contact Professional Services at:- School of Nursing and Midwifery Faculty of Health and Human Sciences Plymouth University Floor 4, Rolle Building Drake Circus Plymouth PL4 8AA Faculty Student Reception telephone numbers: 01752 586999, 585332, 585335 e-mail [email protected] School of Nursing and Midwifery Faculty of Health and Human Sciences Plymouth University Knowledge Spa Royal Cornwall Hospital Treliske Truro TR1 3HD Student reception telephone number: 01872 256450 e-mail [email protected]

mailto:[email protected]



DISABILITY INFORMATION - Important: please note

The University values a diverse community of staff and students and disclosure about a disability will not prejudice your application. If you are not sure whether your condition is considered to be a disability, it is best to still let the University know. Please do not wait until you have arrived at Plymouth to disclose your disability to the university; contact us as soon as you are able to. This will help us to work with you to ensure that you have the right advice about support and equipment while you are studying with us and to allow us to put appropriate support in place in good time for you. We can also arrange meetings with academic staff and a member of staff from the Disability Assist team prior to your arrival to answer any questions you may have If you have not told us about your disability We do encourage you to disclose your disability as early as possible but you can do this at any time during your course. If you have a newly diagnosed or an additional condition, please let us know. The information that you provide will help us to work with you to establish your support and exam requirements during your time at University. The University values a diverse community of staff and students and disclosure about a disability will not prejudice your application. If you are not sure whether your condition is considered to be a disability, it is best to still let the University know. If you have told us about your disability You will recall that when you completed your application form, you indicated that you had a disability, specific requirement or medical condition which may warrant special arrangements or facilities to support you during your time at University. You may be asked for additional information or invited to an information meeting. This will be very informal and will take the form of an exchange of information so that we can best assess how the University can support your study. The information meeting will give you a chance to meet some of the staff who will be working to support you (for example - a Disability Advisor, Academic Tutor), an opportunity to look around the campus and a chance to raise any questions you might have. We will also talk about the Disabled Student Allowance (DSA) - its process and benefits. Past applicants have found this meeting to be invaluable and have found that the experience has made their transition period easier. Finally, if you have any questions or wish to discuss your application for funding or your support at Plymouth University, please contact Disability Assist. https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/learning-gateway/disability-and-dyslexia

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/learning-gateway/disability-and-dyslexia



DISCLAIMER ALL STUDENTS PLEASE NOTE:

All students undertaking programmes delivered by the Faculty of Health and Human Sciences are reminded that any alteration to University documentation, including practice portfolios, involving forgery/falsification of a mentors comments or signature/initialling will be investigated. This investigation could lead to disciplinary action, which may lead to a student’s being unable to achieve professional registration. All the information in this Handbook is correct at the time of posting. Courses are regularly reviewed and updated so details may change. Occasionally, a module listed in the Handbook may be replaced or withdrawn. Plymouth University is proud of its teaching and research and it undertakes all reasonable steps to provide educational services in the manner set out in this Handbook and in any documents referred to within it. It does not, however, guarantee the provision of such services. Should industrial action or circumstances beyond the control of the University interfere with its ability to provide educational services, the University undertakes to use all reasonable steps to minimise the resultant disruption to those services.

SELF - DECLARATION Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) (formerly CRB) and Occupational Health The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) was established under the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 to provide a joined up seamless service combining the criminal records checking and barring functions Details can be found on the DBS Website using this link A satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) declaration and Occupational Health check is required to enter the BSc (Hons) Nursing programme (see entry requirements). You will be asked to complete an annual self-declaration to confirm whether your police record or health status has changed as this may jeopardise your ability to undertake the practical elements of the programme and registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council. You must immediately notify either your programme leader or personal tutor of any changes to your police record or health status that occur throughout the academic year. This includes any warnings, cautions, convictions and bind overs issued by the police and also any pending charges as well as any interviews concerning protection of vulnerable adults or children that occur throughout the year. You must keep your copy of the DBS certificate as you may be requested to provide this when in placement.

https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/disclosure-and-barring-service


Contents

DISABILITY INFORMATION ............................................................................................ 3 DISCLAIMER ................................................................................................................... 4

SELF - DECLARATION .................................................................................................... 4 USEFUL INFORMATION ................................................................................................. 8 1. INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR PROGRAMME .................................................. 10 1.1 Academic Regulations .......................................................................................... 10 1.2 Exceptions to Regulations .................................................................................... 11

1.3 Classification of Honours Degree ......................................................................... 12 1.4 Stepping off points in the programme ................................................................... 13 1.5 Withdrawal from the programme ........................................................................... 13 1.6 National Health Service (NHS) Funded Programmes ........................................... 14 1.7 Interruptions to Study ............................................................................................ 14

2. PROGRAMME STRUCTURE ............................................................................... 14 2.1 Inter-professional Collaboration ............................................................................ 14 2.2 Inter-professional Learning ................................................................................... 16

3. TEACHING AND LEARNING ON THE BSC NURSING PROGRAMME ............. 16

3.1 Recognition of previous academic study or experience (APL) .............................. 21 3.2 Mandatory experiences within the programme ..................................................... 21 4. THE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT ....................................................................... 22

5. ASSESSMENT OF PRACTICE ............................................................................ 22 5.1 Student Ongoing Achievement Record (OAR) ..................................................... 22

5.2. Practice E-Portfolio ............................................................................................... 23 5.3 Placement Learning .............................................................................................. 23 5.3.1 Zones and Host Trusts ......................................................................................... 24

5.3.2 Uniform Policy....................................................................................................... 25 5.3.3 Practice Assessment ............................................................................................ 25

5.4 Guidelines for the Management of Practice Experience ....................................... 26 5.5 Employment Law .................................................................................................. 27 5.6 Risk of bias in practice .......................................................................................... 28 5.7 Paid Employment .................................................................................................. 28 5.7.1 Area of Employment ............................................................................................. 28 5.7.2 Students Undertaking Paid Employment in Addition to Programme Hours .......... 28

5.7.3 Professional Responsibilities ................................................................................ 28 5.7.4 Specific Areas of Concern .................................................................................... 29 5.7.5 Further Information ............................................................................................... 29 5.8 Escalating Concerns in Practice ........................................................................... 29 6. ASSESSMENT PROCEDURES ........................................................................... 30

6.1 Guidance for submission of assessments ............................................................ 31 6.1.1 University Regulations ....................................................................................... 31

6.2 Procedure in the event of failure ........................................................................... 35 6.2.1 Failure after Re-sit ................................................................................................ 35 6.2.2 Repeat with Attendance ........................................................................................ 36 6.3 Appeal against the decision of an Award Assessment Board ............................... 36 6.4 The Appeal Procedure .......................................................................................... 36

6.5 Student Complaints Procedure ............................................................................. 37 7. DIGITAL LEARNING ENVIRONMENT (DLE) ...................................................... 37 7.1 Moodle .................................................................................................................. 37

7.2 Introduction to Library Services ............................................................................ 38


7.2.1 Students with special needs ................................................................................. 38 7.2.2 Getting started with using the Library Services for Health Students ..................... 38

7.3 Computing Services .............................................................................................. 39 7.4 IT Training Resources .......................................................................................... 40 8. Information for students about research .......................................................... 40

9. Faculty and University Student Support .......................................................... 40 10. CAREERS AND EMPLOYABILITY SERVICE .................................................... 45 11. STUDENT UNION ................................................................................................ 47 12. ADDITIONAL POLICIES AND GUIDELINES FOR NURSING AND MIDWIFERY .. .............................................................................................................................. 48

12.1 Personal Details/Data Protection .......................................................................... 49 12.2 Attendance Policy for Students ............................................................................. 49 12.2.1 Authorised Absences ..................................................................................... 50 12.2.2 Negotiated Absences ..................................................................................... 51 12.2.3 Unforeseen Circumstances ............................................................................ 52

12.2.4 Non-authorised absences .............................................................................. 53

12.2.5 Bank Holidays ................................................................................................ 53 12.2.6 Absence from Practice, Recording of Hours .................................................. 53

12.2.7 Timesheets (Student Experience Record)...................................................... 53 12.3 Financial Support for Nursing and Midwifery students .......................................... 54 12.3.1 Student Loans ................................................................................................ 54 12.3.2 NHS Bursaries ............................................................................................... 54

12.3.3 Access to Learning Fund................................................................................ 55 12.4 Travel Insurance ................................................................................................... 55

12.5 Smoking Policy ..................................................................................................... 55 12.6 Equal Opportunities .............................................................................................. 55 12.7 Health and Safety ................................................................................................. 56

12.7.1 Accident Forms .............................................................................................. 56 12.8 Incidents in the Clinical Area ................................................................................ 56

12.9 Guidelines for dealing with unsafe practice/inappropriate professional Behaviour57

12.10 Fitness to Practise Regulations ............................................................................ 57

12.11 Occupational Health Service to the Faculty of Health and Human Sciences ........ 58 12.12 Policy for Health Care Students on Norovirus (Norwalk) ...................................... 59

12.13 Social Networking Sites ........................................................................................ 61 13. STUDENT LIAISON, EVALUATION AND REPRESENTATION ......................... 61

13.1 Student Representatives ...................................................................................... 61 13.2 Students role on Programme Committees ............................................................ 62 13.3 School Student representative .............................................................................. 62 13.4 Student Masterclasses ......................................................................................... 62 13.7 Student Feedback and Evaluation ........................................................................ 63

13.7.1 Student Perception Questionnaire (SPQ) ...................................................... 63 13.7.2 National Student Survey (NSS) ...................................................................... 63 14. APPENDICES ...................................................................................................... 65

APPENDIX 1 .................................................................................................................. 66 ADVICE FOR LECTURERS, STUDENT NURSES AND MIDWIVES REGARDING PREGNANCY ................................................................................................................ 66 APPENDIX 2 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH ...................................................................... 68

APPENDIX 3 .................................................................................................................. 77 CORE CURRICULUM IN PHARMACOLOGY FOR PREREGISTRATION NURSING COURSES (DIP HE, BN AND BSC) .............................................................................. 77

APPENDIX 4 .................................................................................................................. 79 INFORMATION FOR STUDENT NURSES GOING INTO PRACTICE PLACEMENTS . 79


APPENDIX 5 .................................................................................................................. 81 PLACEMENT DEVELOPMENT TEAMS (PDTS) ........................................................... 81

APPENDIX 6 .................................................................................................................. 82 GUIDELINES ON THE ASSESSMENT OF PRACTICE PROCESS .............................. 82 APPENDIX 7 ASSESSMENT GUIDELINES .................................................................. 94

APPENDIX 8 GENERIC MARKING CRITERIA 98


USEFUL INFORMATION University Registration Number Personal Tutor Field Lead Professional Services team Other Useful Numbers

Name: Office: Office Tel: Email:





Professional Services Teams There are two professional services teams supporting the School of Nursing and Midwifery, as shown below.

Truro, Knowledge Spa BSc (Hons) Nursing (Adult field) is taught at this site

Student Reception and School of Nursing and Midwifery Cornwall Professional Services team

First Floor Knowledge Spa

01872 256450

This is the administration team which looks after the day to day administration for nursing students based in Cornwall, including the timesheets and travel claims. Cornwall based Nursing students collect and submit timesheets and travel forms to the Student Reception in the Knowledge Spa, Truro. Coursework and practice documents will also be submitted to the office in the Knowledge Spa. The deadline for submission of assessments is 4pm. The administration team are able to provide guidance if you have any queries concerning the programme.

e-mail: [email protected]

Plymouth Drake Circus BSc (Hons) Nursing (Adult, Child Health and Mental Health) and BSc (Hons) Pre Registration Midwifery are taught at this site

School of Nursing and Midwifery Plymouth Professional Services team

Fourth Floor Rolle Building

01752 586964 01752 586959 01752 586963 01752 586954 01752 586990 01752 586960

This is the administration team which looks after the day to day administration for nursing and midwifery students based in Plymouth, including the timesheets and travel claims. The team are able to provide guidance if you have any queries concerning the programme.

email: [email protected]

Plymouth Drake Circus

Faculty of Health and Human Sciences Faculty Student Reception

Ground Floor Rolle Building

01752 585335 01752 585332 01752 586999

Plymouth based Nursing students collect and submit timesheets and travel forms to the Faculty Student Reception on the Ground Floor Rolle building. Plymouth based students for all Schools submit coursework and practice documents to the Faculty Student Reception in Plymouth. The deadline for Nursing and Midwifery submissions of assessments is 4pm.

e-mail: [email protected]





1. INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR PROGRAMME Award Title: Successful completion of the programme leads to the award of: BSc (Hons) Nursing with an annotation to practice in one of three fields of practice (Child Health, Mental Health, Adult) These are academic qualifications that will enable you to apply to register as a nurse with the Nursing and Midwifery Council. Development of the award to meet these dual goals has been through ongoing collaboration between academic staff, clinical staff, practice development leads, student representatives and Health Education South West. At the discretion of the Award Assessment Board a generic degree entitled BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care Studies may be awarded to students who have not achieved the final year of their programme, but have 80 or more Level 6 credits. Students receiving this award will not be able to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) or the Health Professions Council (HPC). On successful completion of the programme you have six years in which to register or record a qualification leading to an entry on the NMC register. Programme Accredited by: Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). In addition the programme is mapped against learning outcomes across Southern England Consortium (SEEC) descriptors, NMC Criteria and Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) Benchmark statements, NMC Essential Skills Clusters and the Knowledge and Skills Framework. Copies of this mapping are available, on request, from Programme Administration. 1.1 Academic Regulations This programme of study is governed Plymouth University Regulations. You may refer to these regulations at some time during your programme of study. These regulations are updated on a regular basis and are therefore kept centrally at the following website under rules and regulations: http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/studenthandbook/Pages/default.aspx

Assessment Regulations

Complaints

Appeals

Examination and Assessment Offences

Regulations on Late Coursework and Extenuating Circumstances In addition to academic regulations, students on health professional programmes of study are also subject to codes of professional behaviour. These relate to the honesty, integrity and professional behaviour expected of you when you become a registered nurse. A breach of an academic regulation may therefore have more

http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/studenthandbook/Pages/default.aspx


serious consequences for you as a student on this programme as it could affect your future registration.

All students undertaking programmes delivered by the Faculty of Health and Human Sciences are reminded that any alteration to University documentation, including OARs documents, involving forgery/falsification of a mentors comments or signature/initialling will be investigated. This investigation could lead to disciplinary action, which may lead to a student being unable to achieve professional registration.

1.2 Exceptions to Regulations

This degree may NOT be awarded unless all the requirements for the award are met. The normal University Regulations in respect of progression and assessment are followed with specific exceptions, due to the structure and professional nature of the programme, as noted below: a) The programme is exempted from the automatic compensation rule with no

compensation at any stage.

b) Practice based graded assessments for year 1 will be awarded a ‘Pass or Refer grade.

c) Successful completion of a module is defined as the achievement of a pass in all elements of assessment

d) Students may not be awarded the degree unless they have successfully completed all the elements that contribute to the award

e) Owing to the professional nature of the programme, students will be permitted TWO attempts at practice elements of the programme but will be permitted THREE attempts at theoretical components. This will apply to all stages of the degree programme.

f) The degree may only be awarded to students who have successfully completed all elements designated as contributing to the award.

g) The maximum duration of the course will be six years full time in line with University requirements.

Placement Referral Normally students have 2 attempts at practice

Any referred domains

Re-assessment can be undertaken in following placements or if at end of year in an additional period following the Award Board.

Reassessment will be classed as a second and final attempt unless supported with valid extenuating circumstances


Re-assessed marks

The mark awarded for the re-assessed domains lead to the practice element being capped at 40%

Final placement referral

Final placement referral will be subject to decision at the Award Assessment Board and further practice time will need to be undertaken following the Award Board

The programme is separated into three equal parts by two progression points, occurring at the end of year one and year two. The NMC specify that all students must meet the progression point criteria before continuing onto the next stage of the programme. Therefore any further assessment attempts after September re-sits must be taken as repeat modules in the next academic year. This meets both the Nursing and Midwifery Council requirement that all theory and practice is completed for an academic year by week twelve of the next academic year before the student is allowed to progress into year two or three and has met the NMC progression points for the programme. If a repeat with attendance is necessary a bursary will not normally be available except in individual cases which are supported by extenuating circumstances. Students may be liable for fees for the modules which they are repeating in an academic year. Any student who has not achieved all modules components by the extended resit board held 12 weeks after the end of year Award board will automatically be repeating the outstanding modules and be unable to progress into year two or year 3. This meets both the NMC requirement that all theory and practice is completed for year one/two by week 12 of the next academic year before the student is allowed to progress into year two/three and has met the NMC progression points for year one/two of the programme. Award Requirements On completion of all stages of the programme students will be conferred with the award from Plymouth University of the BSc (Hons) Nursing, (Adult, Child Health or Mental Health). You will also be eligible to apply to register on the appropriate part of the Nursing and Midwifery Council Professional Register. You must register with the NMC within 5 years of completing the programme. 1.3 Classification of Honours Degree The award is classified according to the University Regulations: Aggregate percentage mark Each module in stages two and three is awarded a mark out of 100. The final aggregate mark is calculated by applying a scale factor of 0.3 to the marks for stage 2 and a scale factor of 0.7 to the marks for stage 3. The marks for each module are multiplied by the appropriate scaling factor and added together. The resulting aggregate mark is converted to a percentage of the maximum mark obtainable – the aggregate percentage mark.


Classification will be based initially on the aggregate percentage mark. If your aggregate percentage mark falls within the boundaries of the classifications defined below, you are entitled to that award. Classification Bands First Class Honours 70% or above Second Class Honours, Upper Division 60% - 69% Second Class Honours, Lower Division 50% - 59% Third Class Honours 40% - 49% 1.4 Stepping off points in the programme Students who successfully complete 120 academic credits in stage one of the programme and are unable to continue or do not wish to do so, will be eligible for the award of Certificate of Higher Education. Students who successfully complete 240 academic credits at stages 1 and 2 of the programme who are unable or do not wish to continue, will be eligible for the award of Diploma of Higher Education. Such a student will not meet the requirements for Registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council. Students who complete the 3rd year but are not eligible to be registered with the NMC for whatever reason will be awarded the Diploma of Higher Education. Students who had ‘stepped off’ the programme at the end of the first or second stage will be eligible to resume the programme provided that this allows for completion within a six year period from date of commencement. You must notify the programme administrator in good time as a return will be subject to vacancies being available and review by the appropriate Field Specific Lead. If you have been absent from the programme for six months or more an occupational health check and enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) (formerly CRB) check will be necessary. You will need to give notification of any proposed return six months before your planned return date. 1.5 Withdrawal from the programme The Faculty of Health and Human Sciences recognises that some students may wish to withdraw from their studies before completion of the programme. A system for support is in place to assist you in considering the options and you should discuss this initially with your personal tutor. Students who withdraw from the programme must put their intentions in writing and will be asked to attend an exit interview and complete an exit questionnaire. The following identifies the date on which you will be deemed as having withdrawn from the programme. Academic Failure

10 days from the publication of results from the Award Assessment Board. Disciplinary Decision

The date of decision from a disciplinary hearing. Student Withdrawal

Date of receipt of letter of withdrawal from you / Date of personal tutors exit interview with you

Withdrawal by the student without notification


The Field Specific Lead or personal tutor will write to you offering an exit interview and a reply-by date. If no response is received by the reply-by date then that will be taken as the date of withdrawal.

Bursary NHS Business Services Agency (NHS BSA) bursary payments will cease from the date of withdrawal. Please note you may be asked to repay any funds paid to you beyond the withdrawal date. 1.6 National Health Service (NHS) Funded Programmes

Important Information with regard to tuition fees and interrupt/repeat years. As a student registered on an NHS funded programme, you need to be aware that the tuition fee associated with your training is paid to Plymouth University by Health Education South West; they are in effect your sponsor. Health Education South West is the NHS organisation responsible for the planning, development, education and training of the healthcare and public health workforce in the region. Students required to Repeat Where a student is required to repeat failed modules in the following academic year due to academic or clinical failure without valid extenuating circumstances, you are advised that it is unlikely that the NHS will pay tuition fees associated with a repeat year. For clarity in such situations the responsibility for the payment of tuition fees where the NHS sponsor declines payment is with the student. 1.7 Interruptions to Study Where a student requests to interrupt or is required to interrupt their programme, in some cases, the return to training after this interruption will mean that students will be required to complete an additional period of study. Any additional training in this circumstance will also attract tuition fees. Where the period of interruption is not therefore covered by valid extenuating circumstances, students will be personally liable for any additional tuition fees associated with this further period of training. Students are therefore strongly advised to discuss requests for interruption of study with either the Programme Lead and/or Personal Tutor to enable full awareness of potential consequences of interruption. You are therefore encouraged to ensure that you are aware of and familiar with the University academic regulations and any exceptional regulations relating to your particular programme of study. These can be found at https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/academic-regulations in your programme Handbook and in the relevant Programme Specifications available on the University website. Further information and clarification regarding regulations can be provided by your Programme Lead or Professional Services.

2. PROGRAMME STRUCTURE 2.1 Inter-professional Collaboration

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/academic-regulations

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/academic-regulations


This three-year modular programme has generic and field specific modules as prescribed by the NMC (2010). Generic modules are those shared with other fields of nursing (Adult, Child, Mental Health), with field being discipline focused. There is one Generic module in in year 1,and three shared modules, 1 generic module in Year 2 and 2 generic modules in year 3. The field specific modules complement the generic modules throughout the programme and enable you to meet all competences as required by the NMC. The programme is divided into three stages that equate to three academic years of a full time programme. Learning and teaching will take place over the whole academic year in both inter-professional and field specific groups at the University and on clinical placement. Inter-professional collaboration is important for enhancing the quality of health care. When you qualify you will be working as part of a multi-professional team. Depending on the specialism you choose to work in, the mix of colleagues working together will vary, but nonetheless there will be other professions in that setting. In current health and social care practice, the importance of a multi professional approach is emphasised because it means that client needs are better met if those professionals involved in their care are working not just alongside each other, but collaboratively and ‘inter-professionally’ as well. As you are going to be working with other professions in the future, it makes sense for you to share some of your learning with students from other professions in preparation for when you are qualified. Shared learning takes place throughout the three years of this degree programme, both in theory and practice settings and is an integral part of your professional development and final qualification. There are two aspects of campus-based inter-professional education within the degree programmes. These are multi-professional or shared learning and inter-professional learning.

Multi-professional (shared) learning is when you learn about particular subject areas you have in common together, rather than in separate professional groups. The multi-professional approach should help you to understand and appreciate that there is a huge amount of underpinning foundation knowledge and skills shared by all health care professionals, and thus provide you with a common language with which to communicate with colleagues from other disciplines in the future.

Inter-professional learning has an added dimension, and is about greater interaction to learn together, especially about each other’s roles and potential contribution to client care, and to health, social care, and education service provision. Students undertaking this Programme will have excellent opportunities to experience Inter-professional learning with cognisant groups in all of their clinical placements.

The exact definition of these terms is less important than the experience of learning to work with colleagues from other professions right at the start of your future career! There will also be some opportunities for inter-professional learning in practice placements. However, the specific nature of these will depend on the type of placement you undertake. In year one, in teaching block one a generic module which is multi-professional will be shared with students from all three fields of practice Child Health, Adult and Mental Health. The module, (Ways of Knowing NRS 403), will assist in preparing your for the next three years in working, learning and scholarship as a student nurse. It will prepare you for both practice and theory. Inter-professional Learning (IPL) will be developed in the practice setting with IPL learning outcomes incorporated into your practice portfolio.


In years two, Knowledge and Skills for Evidence-Based Practice (1) (NRS204) is shared with a specific focus on developing your knowledge and understanding of the application of research to nursing practice. In the third year Management and Leadership and Transition to Professional practice (NRS 301) is also shared with other fields of nursing. You will be using an inter-professional approach to plan and evaluate effective services by using appropriate standards and protocols of care, and developing your management and leadership skills. 2.2 Inter-professional Learning In addition to developing your experience of other fields of nursing in Year 1, you will be required to demonstrate inter-professional learning in Years 1, 2 and 3. These learning outcomes will form part of the assessed learning outcomes in practice for specific modules which have a practice component. You will also be required to reflect on specific aspects of inter-professional learning. Clinical Tutorials attached to modules which have a practice component will be used to explore inter-professional practice and provide opportunities for further inter- professional learning to take place.

3. TEACHING AND LEARNING ON THE BSC NURSING PROGRAMME The BSc (Hons) Nursing Programme is based upon a fundamental belief that the process of learning will be most effective if it is student centred and you take responsibility for your own learning. A variety of facilitative methods will be used. Key Lectures Key Lectures will form an integral part of teaching introducing you to new material and set the scene for future learning. They make use of exiting new technology for interactive satellite delivery from our shared facilities at Portland Square. Lecture notes and interactive discussion will also be available through the university student portal ‘Moodle’. Seminars and workshops Seminars and workshops are used to enable you to exchange further information and ideas. Under the facilitation of a seminar/ workshop leader and following appropriate preparation, you will be expected to question, critically analyse and evaluate and think about the topic under discussion. Working effectively in a group is a key skill for all health professionals and seminars allow you to demonstrate good team working. Guidance on Recording Lectures The University expects all students to participate fully in the learning opportunities offered by their programme of study and encourages all students to take advantage of additional opportunities for development, both personally and academically. As part of this, attendance at lectures is an expectation. (We also believe that note-taking (as in lectures) is itself a valuable skill.) Should you wish to record a lecture (in any format, whether audio or audio-visual) you must seek the permission of the lecturer before the lecture begins. It is important that you respect your lecturer's work and their right to manage the manner in which it is distributed. Lectures and learning materials are the intellectual property of the University and the staff who develop them and who deliver teaching through a variety of methods. Any recording that is made with the lecturer's permission must not be


distributed in any format (including through posting the recording or a transcription on the internet e.g. Facebook, blogs, Google+ etc.). The information may only be used in support of your own learning or others' registered on the programme. Any offences under the Policy may be dealt with under the Code of Conduct and Disciplinary Procedure for students. The University recognises that recording can form a reasonable adjustment for students with disabilities. If you wish to record lectures or other learning opportunities in order to make the information more accessible to you due to a disability, please contact Disability Assist for advice on ways the University can support you. If Disability Assist have notified your school that recording lectures will support your learning, you will not need to seek the permission of the lecturer before the lecture begins, but recordings must not be distributed in any format. Problem-based learning (PBL) Problem based learning is an approach to learning in which a problem is used as a trigger for acquiring new knowledge. The approach encourages learning through experience and reinforces existing knowledge. Most students say they find PBL a challenge at first but enjoy this way of learning because it lets you learn in the best way for your individual learning style and it also leads to the development of lifelong learning skills. In addition by examining case studies and scenarios, and using a problem-solving process to address patient and client problems, it is similar to the way most care is planned and delivered in health care practice. It is a process which has much broader learning outcomes than traditional ways of teaching. PBL allows you to focus on issues of practical relevance, to investigate pertinent theory, and in the process to develop transferable skills of group working, leadership, presentation and critical thinking. PBL has been endorsed as an effective way to obtain competent professional practitioners possessing qualities deemed important for nurses such as autonomy, active decision making, flexibility, independence, leadership and collaboration. As some cohorts are large in number, you might be divided into smaller groups which will be facilitated by a tutor. Students will be presented with stimulus material typically in the form of a scenario. The students clarify the concepts; define and analyse problems, and decide how to proceed. Information is then gathered outside the classroom, and ways of presenting the material identified. At the agreed time, students return with information, and, using general information, decide how the specific problem (in the original scenario) can be addressed. Highly Directed Study Periods of planned study which normally take place outside of organised lectures. Learning Profile You have responsibility for your own learning and for recording your achievements. Throughout the programme you will build an e-portfolio containing evidence that demonstrates the integration of practical and theoretical achievements. The Practice Portfolio in Stage 1 is a section of your programme portfolio. By establishing good practice in your pre-registration period, maintaining an e-portfolio of learning will become part of your professional activity. Reflective Discussions


These discussions will enable you to look at incidents that occur during learning, analyse and learn from them. They will be structured, facilitated discussions which will help you to develop your analytical and problem solving skills. Lecturing staff are allocated specific academic roles to assist you in your studies. Some of the key roles are described below – A module leader has overall academic responsibility for their designated modules across all Faculty sites. You will be informed of their name and location prior to commencing each module on your programme. A module teacher is the lecturer who delivers and organises the module at your local Faculty site. A module teacher may also be the module leader. The module team consists of the module leader and the site-based module teachers. The module team also includes others e.g. practising educators. A mentor is a qualified nurse who will support your learning in practice. They will have undertaken a specific mentor preparation and be annotated on a Placement providers mentor register. At the beginning of each practice placement you will be allocated a specific mentor who will monitor, record, and assess progress in practice. A Sign off mentor is an experienced mentor who has undergone further preparation to enable them to sign you off as proficient in clinical practice in your Ongoing Achievement record in your final placement and be eligible to apply for registration with the NMC. Literacy and Numeracy Numeracy skills are developed in year one and continue through years 2 and 3 with more complex calculations using an interactive on line numeracy package. The Clinical Skills modules assess your ability to carry out calculations associated with medicines, nutrition and fluids. During years two and three you will have further opportunity to develop skills related to numeracy within field specific modules and these skills are assessed within these modules and in practice Literacy is developed in conjunction with Learning Development materials and these are introduced into the generic module in year one of the programme. You also have access to online resources of the University’s Learning Development Team. During years two and three you will be offered further literacy support to write at stage two and stage three through links with Learning Development and writing workshops offered in the induction week. Module tutors will also support you in assignment writing. Literacy is assessed through written assignments and criteria, please see the Plymouth University Student Handbook (https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/your-university/governance/student-handbook ) for guidance on marking. Clinical Skills teaching takes place both in the classroom and the Simulation laboratory and is facilitated by academic teachers and clinical demonstrators. It will incorporate demonstrations, role play and skill rehearsal and it provides you with the opportunity to develop your clinical skills in a safe environment. E- Learning all students on registration will have access to the digital learning environment which includes “Moodle” and gives access to programme and module information and allows interactive teaching and learning between students and academics.

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/your-university/governance/student-handbook


There are links to course materials as well as e mail, contacts, calendar and tasks. The programme will make full use of Moodle, as well as encouraging participation in the Faculty of Health and Human Sciences satellite seminar sessions, and the use of video conferencing facilities and Webinar when appropriate. Further access to other on-line material available on the portal is also encouraged such as learning support material. At the beginning of the Programme you will be allocated an email address. You should check your mail regularly as this form of communication will be used to convey important information relating to your programme, modules and placements. Tutorials Tutorials are also offered by module teachers on a group basis to enhance peer support and address module learning outcomes. Tutorial support You will be allocated a named Field specific personal tutor on registration, who will oversee your progress for all three years of the programme, they will be your first line of contact and support. Personal tutors are there to help you with any problems regarding your academic progress, or with a personal problem that is affecting your participation in the course. You should see your personal tutor at regular intervals. The University Policy relating to personal tutors can be found using this link. Personal Tutors are there to help you reflect on and review your own academic progress and to provide guidance if you encounter any academic or personal difficulties which prevent you from gaining the most from the course. Tutorials are often given in groups where both peer and academic support is available. You should:

Organise your time effectively to meet the academic requirements of your course.

Arrange mutually convenient tutorial sessions. Personal tutors have a wide range of commitments and it is recommended that you use e-mail and other approaches suggested by the module teacher to arrange this.

Agree with the personal tutor the objectives for their tutorials.

Deal with unforeseen circumstances, e.g. personal tutor’s sickness, it is your responsibility to re-organise another tutorial. If the circumstances become protracted for example a long-term sickness problem, the Field Specific Lead will advise on alternative arrangements.

Not expect excessive time. It is anticipated that most tutorials will not exceed 30

minutes and will not normally exceed one hour per module. Bring as much information with you as possible to the tutorial e.g. essay plan, rough

draft, areas of concern etc. Realise that support from the personal tutor for the submission of written assignments

will normally be available up until one week prior to the published submission date. After this deadline advice can only be given on matters of general study, assessment preparation and pastoral issues.

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/your-university/teaching-and-learning/guidance-and-resources/personal-tutoring


Module teachers and Problem Based Learning facilitators will also be available for specific module support. The role of academic staff is complemented by mentors who have a role in the support of learning whilst you are undertaking practice placements. This role will be supported by the Practice Development Teams. Clinical tutorials Clinical tutorials form part of module delivery and you will be encouraged to reflect on practice in a structured way to enhance links between theory and practice. Practical skills teaching Practical skills teaching will be facilitated by lecturers and clinical staff. These sessions will provide the opportunity for development of skills based on theoretical knowledge and contemporary evidence. Skills based material to develop and support practice will be delivered by use of multi-media resources, clinical demonstrations, role play skills sessions and group supervision sessions. These skills will be enhanced through the utilisation of a self-practice/self-reflection (SP/SR) approach, whereby you will be encouraged to employ appropriate techniques on yourself and colleagues and reflect upon their use. This will be fully supported through the use of the student electronic managed learning environment, which will provide you and your colleagues with anonymised feedback concerning your use of the techniques, a developing list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) concerning application of techniques in practice, and a discussion page to enhance practice and mutual support. Self-practice, Self-reflection will enable the links between theory and practice to be fully explored and provide the foundation for reflective skills-based learning thus enabling confidence and competence. Practice placement learning Practice placement learning is supported by mentors in practice who are suitably prepared, experienced practitioners responsible for guiding, supporting and assessing students in practice. You will be allocated a mentor for each practice placement experience. Mentors are supported by Placement Development Teams consisting of both academics and practitioners. Personal Development Plan Personal development planning is an important part of your programme which supports the development of skills for lifelong learning that lead to improved opportunities for employment. You will achieve this through your portfolio work, reflecting on your learning achieved and planning for your further learning needs. You will also be guided by module teachers and your personal tutor about both academic and professional learning outcomes. Your On-going Achievement Record in Practice (OAR) will be used to demonstrate learning in practice though out the programme and will be used as a basis for planning further learning. Communication The University provides all students with a University e-mail account. Communication to students from the University will use this e-mail account only. Please ensure that you check this regularly.


3.1 Recognition of previous academic study or experience (APL) The structure of the programme allows flexibility for you to enter and exit the programme at appropriate and relevant points using rigorous Accreditation of Prior (Experiential) Learning (APL) procedures. APL is an academic term and generally means giving you academic credit and recognition for previous academic study and practice experienced at the appropriate level. (For further information please contact the APL Administrator at [email protected]). 3.2 Mandatory experiences within the programme Statutory and Mandatory Skills training is a prerequisite for professional practice and you are required to attend annual training sessions as specified below. These sessions may form part of module delivery or may be found outside of modules within an introduction period or before practice.

Year one Year two Year three

Moving and Manual Handling Techniques

Introduction year 1 NRS406 CHN403

Introduction year 2 Introduction year 3

Fire Safety and Prevention

Introduction year 1 Introduction year 2 Introduction year 3

Basic Life Support Skills

Introduction year 1 NRS406 CHN403

Introduction year 2 ADN 204 CHN202

Introduction year 3 CHN302 ADN303

Mental Capacity Act 2005

NRS406 CHN403

Introduction year 2 CHN 204 MHN202

Introduction year 3 ADN302 MHN301

Safeguarding Children

NRS406 CHN403

Introduction year 2 MHN202

Introduction year 3

Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults

NRS406 CHN403



NRS = Generic Modules ADN = Adult Specific modules CHN = Child Specific Modules MHN = Mental Health Specific modules In addition you will be required to attend a general session on Conflict resolution and Equality and Diversity Attendance at these sessions will be recorded on your student record and you must ensure you sign the register at each of these sessions. It is your responsibility to make known to the relevant member of academic staff any session that you may have missed; furthermore it is your responsibility to ensure you attend the rescheduled sessions.



4. THE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT Placement learning will be gained in the health service and other providers across the South West. Every attempt will be made to place you as closely and conveniently as possible within your chosen area. However due to the large numbers of students and the limited availability of placements, and in order to provide you with a breadth of experience, you can and will be expected to travel across the area of choice.

5. ASSESSMENT OF PRACTICE 5.1 Student Ongoing Achievement Record (OAR) The Ongoing Achievement Record (OAR) is a record of your achievement in practice throughout your period of pre-registration nursing education. You will be provided with a student Ongoing Achievement of Practice Record (OAR) which you will carry from placement to placement to enable mentors to view your ongoing progress. You will make the OAR available to your mentor, at the start and throughout the placement. This is an important record for which you will have overall responsibility. The Ongoing Achievement Record (OAR) for the BSc (Hons) Nursing programme enables you to demonstrate continuity and progression throughout the programme. The purpose of the OAR is to enable you to demonstrate that you have met the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) progression points as identified at the end of each year, and Standards of Competency for pre-registration nursing education (NMC, 2010). During the three years of your programme you will work in a variety of practice placements thus ensuring a breadth of experience. Completion of the OAR is one element which is assessed entirely in the practice placement. The OAR comprises the criteria against which students are assessed.

Year One: NMC Domains Progression Point criteria

Year Two: NMC Domains Progression Point criteria

Year Three: NMC Domains The OAR contains mandatory, formative and summative assessments. Summative assessments judge your competency at certain points in the programme. Your practice mentor will continually be assessing your performance and will be informing you of your progress. You will be advised of the dates for completion of your summative assessment by the programme team. This information will also be available via the programme Moodle either through the Field Specific handbook (Child and Mental Health) or on the Programme and Assessment tile (Adult). The results of the summative assessments are presented to the appropriate Award Assessment Board at the end of each level. At the end of your third year it will be used by sign-off mentors in your final placement to make a judgement about your fitness for practice, it will also contribute as evidence for NMC requirements of ‘good health and good character at the point of registration.’


Specific days have been identified during the three years of your programme for you to meet with your personal tutor on a regular basis. This is enable the personal tutor to review your progress in theory and practice and offer guidance as required as well as liaising with mentors as necessary. 5.2. Practice E-Portfolio The OAR and the e-portfolio is a collection of evidence, which shows your achievements in the acquisition of knowledge, understanding and skills both in theory and practice. By the end of the programme you will have collected a wealth of information about yourself and your learning experiences to provide a continuous record of your professional development. Theory and practice are closely integrated and the evidence you collect will provide opportunities for you to identify the links between the two. The programme has specific standards to be achieved within practice, and you will be assessed, by your designated practice mentor, on specific performance criteria. You will gather evidence for your e-portfolio to demonstrate that you have reached the required standard. Your e-portfolio will include:

relevant programme and module standards to be achieved in practice reflective accounts profile of essential skills clusters evidence to support your achievement of competence record of clinical experience evidence of achievement of EU learning outcomes evidence of achievement of Inter-professional Learning outcomes

Members of the Programme Team will give detailed guidance regarding completion of the Practice e-Portfolio. 5.3 Placement Learning Placement learning forms an integral part of the programme and accounts for 50% of the learning and teaching hours available. Up to 300 hours of practice experience can take place within a simulated environment. Your attendance at skills sessions within the skills laboratory will be recorded and these hours will form part of your achievement of overall practice hours. Changes in health care provision have resulted in an increasingly diverse range of work environments and an emphasis on inter-professional working in health care contexts. It is therefore essential that modules contain practice learning outcomes reflecting this trend and provide the hours required for registration with the NMC. With this in mind, emphasis is placed upon your achieving the competencies specified by the Nursing and Midwifery Council and the benchmark statements for nursing produced by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education. A Practice e-Portfolio will enable you to demonstrate the breadth and depth of your clinical experience, and include assessment of the standards/criteria indicating that the competencies have been met. Specific Essential Skills Clusters (ESCs) which form the Skills Profile within your practice e-portfolio and OAR have already been mapped to the required competencies and can be used to identify that you have achieved the performance criteria during your practice experiences.


The establishment of personal goals and outcomes in the e-portfolio (a personal development plan), to aid achievement of the learning outcomes, will allow you to begin to develop responsibility toward your own learning in the placement environment, and to reflect on your practice. Module aims and learning outcomes will guide you to make best use of learning opportunities. You will be encouraged to enter into collaborative work with other health professionals in order to consolidate the inter-professional nature of the curriculum and reflect the changing nature and delivery of health care for the benefit of the individual. It is important that you take all learning opportunities available to you during each practice placement, working with your mentor to observe, work with and engage in practice with other health professionals and users and carers. 5.3.1 Zones and Host Trusts You will be allocated to a host placement and zone before you start the programme which will enable you to plan accommodation, identify your travel to placements requirements and manage other responsibilities, e.g. family life. Placements within the host trust and zone are our placement partners, including those from the Private, Voluntary and Independent sectors and is these areas in which you will undertake your clinical placements. This enables you to become part of the health community for the organisations, to understand the values and beliefs of the organisations and with the increased opportunity for employment at the finish of the programme. You will be allocated to placement areas to ensure that you are able to experience a range of patient/client care settings throughout the three years of your programme, and which will meet the NMC requirements for you field of practice Placement allocations are managed through an on-line system and information about your placement allocation is available to you using ‘Placements on the Web (POW)’. You will be given a log in to POW before you attend your first placement and all future placements will be notified using POW. Any queries relating to placement allocations are to be sent to [email protected]. In addition a great deal of supporting information for your placement can be found on POPPI, including accommodation and communities to arrange shared travel, appropriate policies, course documents, etc. Plymouth Online Practice Placement Information (POPPI) http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/placements/Poppi Practice learning outcomes can be achieved in any setting as they relate to broad principles of patient care. It will also enable you to be informed about your personal placement plan throughout your programme. It is really important to us that you complete your placement evaluation which are also online at the end of your placement this allows us to feedback to the placement area your experience , and to continue to improve this experience for all students’

http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/placements/poppi/Pages/default.aspx


http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/placements/Poppi/Pages/default.aspx


5.3.2 Uniform Policy We hope you will be proud to wear your uniform and will uphold the good reputation of the nursing profession whilst doing so. To ensure your health and safety, and that of those you will be caring for, you are required to adhere to the following uniform policy: Hair must be clean, tidy, secured off the face and above the collar. No jewellery should be worn on the face, ears or neck. You must be ‘bare below the elbow’; no false nails, nail extensions, nail polish,

jewellery or watches. A plain wedding ring may be worn but you may have to remove this for some clinical practices.

Plain black shoes must be worn. The shoe must cover the whole foot. Crocs/trainers and canvass shoes are not permitted.

Your uniform must be clean, ironed and kept in good condition. The appropriate coloured epaulettes must be worn indicating your stage of the

programme. You must wear your name badge and Student Identity Badge. You must not be seen smoking in your uniform. Uniform must be worn while you are in a practice placement or attending the simulation

suite. If you have to travel in your uniform you must wear a coat that covers your uniform.

None adherence of the uniform policy may result in you being turned away from your practice placement or the simulation suite. Not all placements will require you to wear your uniform. In which case please seek guidance from the placement area and adhere to local policy. Student Identity Badge This is an essential component for your practice and must be worn. Epaulettes Epaulettes are provided in a different colour for each stage of your programme. These will need to be returned at the end of each year. Red epaulettes are issued to first year students, yellow to second year students and grey to third year students. 5.3.3 Practice Assessment The summative assessment of practice for the programme must be undertaken throughout the programme year. You will be required to provide evidence of competence over each placement. The learning development plan will help to decide which competency development will be undertaken in each placement. The OAR document is a record of your overall practice assessment and is thus considered an aspect of professional record keeping. Year 1, Year 2 and Year 3: You must successfully achieve the Progression Point Criteria to progress into the following year. The summative points for all years are at the end of each practice. The domains for each year must normally be achieved in each practice area. You will be assessed in each of these and your mentor will indicate the level of achievement you have met for each competency. The level of achievement awarded, from 0 to 100%, should reflect the skills, knowledge and values pertinent to the stage of your programme and you will demonstrate


these both in the practice area and with the evidence collated in your e-portfolio. On submission of your OAR you will receive a grade (%) for your Practice. At the end of each Year your personal tutor will indicate that you can progress into the following year. There are two ways that you may fail your practice, either through non achievement of practice competence or due to poor record keeping. Full details of achieving practice competence can be found in your Field Specific Handbook and e-Portfolio and if you have any queries you must talk to your personal tutor. 5.4 Guidelines for the Management of Practice Experience The purpose of these guidelines is to ensure that all students studying the BSc (Hons) Nursing programme have the same framework with which to gain practice experience. They are guidelines and as such, some students, in negotiation with their personal tutor and practice placements, may be working with different patterns at any particular time. In this way you are able to take full advantage of all the learning opportunities during a placement to achieve your learning objectives and to undertake the summative assessment of practice. Principles You will have supernumerary status throughout your programme. This means that you are part of the care team but extra to the staff allocated complement. You should work under the supervision of a mentor/have access to your mentor for 40% of your placement. Since nursing involves 24 hour care, where appropriate to the area of care, you are expected to work shifts, and in order to experience and contribute to 24 hour care provision are encouraged to attend the hand over meetings at the beginning of the shifts. This may include start times of 07:00 hours on some occasions. Some wards and units follow a 12 hour shift system and where appropriate, you should follow this pattern. Where this is difficult, an alternative time may be negotiated between student and mentor. You are not normally expected to work no more than 75 hours per fortnight (i.e. the equivalent of 37.5 hours per week) Please note that lunch breaks whilst on practice are not included as part of your practice hours and cannot be included as hours on your timesheets. Weekend shifts and night duty are part of the 24 hour care provision and you are encouraged to work these shifts. However, you should not normally work more than two weekends in any four week period during the programme. For some experiences, on call arrangements may be more appropriate. The aim is to provide you with a realistic experience of care, which involves more than a 9 – 5 day. As a guide approximately 14 shifts incorporating an ‘on call’ or night duty experience would be expected in a 3 year programme, and this would be recorded in the student experience record sheets which are submitted to Programme Administration. You are responsible for notifying both your placement and the Faculty of Health and Human Sciences Programme Administration Team if you are unable to attend due to sickness.


You and your practice area will be given a list of study days where you do not have to attend placement. These days are timetabled and your practice hours are calculated accordingly. You must not take additional study days unless they are specifically granted by the university and your placement area is informed directly, any additional days that you take as study time will be classed as absent and you will consequently be down on your required hours to register with the NMC. If you feel that your placement allocation is a cause for concern for personal reasons, e.g. your own GP practice, you should discuss the situation with your personal tutor so that alternative arrangements can be considered. Placement Induction and Study sessions When commencing any placement it is a requirement that you complete the appropriate placement induction within the stipulated timeframe required by the placement organisation. This ensures you are familiar with the policies and procedures within your placement area. Induction may take the form of an on-line package or require personal attendance. On line packages may be available through POW and, where this is the case, you are encouraged to undertake this activity at the earliest opportunity before you start your placement. You should record completion of the appropriate induction within your Ongoing Achievement Record (OAR). If you are not able to undertake this activity within the required period you must contact your personal tutor as failure to attend or undertake on line induction in a timely manner may lead to withdrawal from practice.” You should contact your practice area a week before you are due to commence placement to make any arrangements and meet your mentor if necessary. On starting your placement you should discuss your practice learning outcomes and assessment documents with your mentor. If you have any concerns or issues you feel are affecting your practice experience, you should discuss them with your personal tutor as soon as possible to provide the best chance of addressing them allowing you to complete your assessments. There may, on occasion be study sessions or study days held by your placement organisation and/or events held nationally that will be of interest to you. Attending these must always be in negotiation and agreement with your placement mentor to ensure it matches your learning action plan. Attendance at these can be recorded as placement hours, with your mentors signature on the time-sheet. 5.5 Employment Law A student who is on placement may not be considered as an employee and does not have the same rights, pursuant to employment legislation as if they were to be treated as an employee. Therefore in so far as an employee might have the right to request flexible working in order to deal with post-pregnancy issues, that right does not apply to persons who are on placement. The Nursing and Midwifery Council advise that flexibility can only be achieved if it is available at a local level. We will, as a Faculty, always do our best to be flexible


and accommodate students’ requests, however due to the limits placed on us by the placement process; it may not always be possible to do so. The Faculty abides by Section 22 of the Sex Discrimination Act 1975 recognising that is unlawful for the “responsible body” of an educational establishment to discriminate on grounds of sex. Furthermore we cannot, and indeed do not, discriminate in the terms on which it offers to admit a student, or by refusing or deliberately omitting to accept an application, or the terms upon which a student, once admitted, is given access to facilities. 5.6 Risk of bias in practice

1. You must not have a mentor/practice assessor to whom you are related or are close

friends or well-known to you or your family. If this occurs you must inform the practice area and your Personal Tutor

2. If you are placed in a GP, community practice or an acute care area, where you or your family is being treated you should make this known to the University's practice placement team and the unit's staff

5.7 Paid Employment

Should you take up paid employment outside your programme you must be aware of the following issues 5.7.1 Area of Employment

You must not work as an HCA / phlebotomist etc. in any area where you are currently also being placed as a student. If your paid work is within the same trust you must be in different departments and 'geographically' separate. This is because there may be a perceived blurring of the role being undertaken by a student

5.7.2 Students Undertaking Paid Employment in Addition to Programme Hours The University is aware some students may undertake paid part time employment outside the programme to finance their studies. If this applies to you it requires careful consideration on your part as it may have implications for your professional programme.

5.7.3 Professional Responsibilities

The Pre-Registration nursing framework and midwifery curriculum is made up of practice hours and theory hours (classroom and directed study hours). These hours are essential to meet the learning outcomes of the programme; therefore paid employment that impinges upon this is likely to affect your learning and professional development.

Paid employment can take many forms but students who do work in the role of care assistance must recognise that this role is inherently different to that of a student nurse/midwife. As this is a professional course, working in the capacity of anything other than a supervised student nurse/midwife may compromise your ability to appreciate the professional boundaries and integrity of the role.


If you do choose to undertake paid employment, it is advisable that you do not undertake more than 15 paid hour’s employment per week whilst undertaking theory and that any additional employment does not conflict with your programme. Because of the professional implications and long working hours we recommend that students do not undertake additional part-time employment whilst in practice. You should also be aware of European Directives regarding working hours. https://www.gov.uk/maximum-weekly-working-hours/overview

5.7.4 Specific Areas of Concern

In any form of paid employment the following activities will be considered serious and may require disciplinary action, which may result in discontinuation from the programme.

Students who have not attended programmed sessions within the University because they have or are undertaking paid employment.

Students who work consecutive shifts (within the same 24 hour period) as this may lead to excessive tiredness, which may endanger patients and the students themselves. This includes working before or after a study day at the University.

Students who alter their practice shifts to undertake paid work elsewhere.

Students who are identified on the duty roster in their practice placement and who take sick leave or absence in order to work as agency or bank staff in any healthcare environment or in other employment.

5.7.5 Further Information

If you require further advice or guidance on any of the above please contact your Personal Tutor. Students who do not receive a bursary may face specific challenges and should discuss these in advance with the Stage Lead/Field Lead.

5.8 Escalating Concerns in Practice

The best way of overcoming challenges within the National Health Service resulting in good outcomes for the public and those who care for them is good communication, honesty and transparency through partnership working. If you feel you have seen excellent practice and your colleagues need applauding then please tell them. This makes a different to those working hard under pressure. Should you have an uncertainty or be unhappy about any person’s actions you are encouraged discuss this with your mentor and your personal tutor. This needs to be done immediately so your uncertainties or identification of poor practice can be addressed without delay. If required your concerns will then be escalated to the appropriate personnel. If your mentor or personal tutor is not available you should contact either the Professional Services team or the Head of School’s office. Please do not wait until your placement has finished before you do this. The Faculty policy relating to untoward incidents or safeguarding issues from practice, or other serious events requiring investigation can be found on Poppi. http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/placements/Poppi

https://www.gov.uk/maximum-weekly-working-hours/overview



6. ASSESSMENT PROCEDURES Assessment The learning and teaching strategy is supported by a variety of assessment modes recognising that high quality assessment practices are an important element of your experience. The University expects assessment to assist you in learning by:

Providing appropriate feedback.

Measuring your achievements objectively against learning outcomes.

Providing a reliable and consistent basis for the recommendations for award.

Assisting staff in evaluating the effectiveness of their teaching. (Plymouth University assessment policy https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/your-university/teaching-and-learning) The strategy therefore helps you to develop and progress through the acquisition of knowledge and understanding to critical analysis and evaluation of issues pertaining to professional practice. Assessment will include:

Written tests

Examination of practical skills in the simulation laboratory by Objective Structured Examinations (OSCE)

Examination of practical skills in the clinical setting

Examinations

Essays

Reflective accounts

Analysis of care

Analysis of national reports/policy documents

Literature reviews

Clinical reviews

Evaluation of health promotion activity In addition you will be expected to develop a professional e-portfolio demonstrating your individual development and learning throughout the programme. This will include for example demonstration and recording of transferable skills and reflection. It will also provide opportunity for you to record your contributions to the problem based learning, and seminar discussions. Successful achievement in both theory and practice must be achieved in order to obtain your award. In those modules that have both a theory and practice component, both components must be passed for successful completion of the module. In the event of a referral or late of practice, the associated theoretical component will be capped at 40%. There are a set of assessment principles and policies that are followed by Plymouth University and the Faculty of Health and Human Sciences. It is important that you familiarise yourself with these. University wide information can be accessed through the student handbook https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/your-university/governance/student-handbook Placement policies can be accessed through Poppi http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/placements/Poppi

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/your-university/teaching-and-learning

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/your-university/teaching-and-learning





You are also referred to the section on University Regulations. In particular please note the sections for Honours degrees in those regulations. You are also advised to familiarise yourself with those regulations relating to appeals, extenuating circumstances and academic dishonesty. https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/your-studies/essential-information/regulations

Further details on all specific assessments will be provided within individual module handbooks. 6.1 Guidance for submission of assessments https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/your-university/teaching-and-learning/guidance-and-resources/plymouth-university-assessment-policy-2014-2020 6.1.1 University Regulations You are required to comply with the University Regulations in the preparation of your summative coursework and for all other forms of assessment. http://plymouth.ac.uk/studenthandbook Your attention is drawn in particular to the sections on:

Examination and Assessment Offences

Late Submissions 6.1.2 University Assessment Regulations https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/your-studies/essential-information/regulations 6.1.3 The University’s Disability Assist Services http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/disability 6.1.4 Students whose first language is not English Students for whom English is a second language may contact the English Language Centre for language support mailto:[email protected] 6.1.5 How to Prepare Summative Assignments and Coursework a. You must prepare your coursework in accordance with the assignment guidelines

given in the module handbook. Do seek clarification from the module teacher.

b. It is your responsibility to seek tutorial support and guidance as required. You are strongly advised to seek this guidance and feedback on a draft outline of your coursework at an early stage before you have invested too much time in preparation. Experience suggests that students who seek such advice are more successful than those who do not.

Module teachers will only provide formative feedback on an outline of the proposed structure and content of your coursework. You will need to keep a record of the advice they give you. This will normally be available up to one working week prior to the identified submission date.

6.1.6 Anonymity and confidentiality:

Must be maintained with regard to all service users / patient details and names of workers, in whatever medium of assessment is used.

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/your-studies/essential-information/regulations

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/your-university/teaching-and-learning/guidance-and-resources/plymouth-university-assessment-policy-2014-2020

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/your-university/teaching-and-learning/guidance-and-resources/plymouth-university-assessment-policy-2014-2020

http://plymouth.ac.uk/studenthandbook


http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/disability



If work is submitted and in the judgement of the marker(s), appears to breach anonymity or confidentiality, it will be awarded a mark of ‘one’ pending the outcome of an investigation. The primary intention of 'confidentiality/anonymity' is based upon a duty of care to protect the identity of patients or service users of health and social care agencies, their carers and families. *Please note, specific health or social care services, NHS Trusts or hospitals, local authorities, voluntary or independent care organisations should not normally be named, unless this material is in the public domain. Material used for coursework that is held in the public domain must be appropriately referenced.

If others are contributing to your portfolio work it is advisable to include their written permission before submitting the assignment.

It is important to indicate clearly where you have used pseudonyms for individuals and care services. We strongly recommend that you insert a disclaimer to this fact at the start of your coursework e.g.NMC, 2015.

6.1.7 Copyright Regulations: You must ensure your work complies with current Copyright Regulations.http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/learn

6.1.8 Writing in either first or third person are both acceptable in academic text and it is

a matter of personal choice and the nature of the assignment which you choose. Your module teachers will give advice and clarification on this issue.

6.1.8 Word limit

Writing to a pre-set word limit, along with other module criteria, is an intellectual skill that is designed to encourage you to present your coursework concisely and coherently. It is one of a number of important assignment criteria against which your work will be judged and marked. Markers will confirm your work adheres to the word limit and provide feedback accordingly. Work that is more than 10% below the specified word limit is unlikely to contain enough material to merit a pass grade

The word limit is exclusive of

(i) headings, titles and statements on the cover and contents page; (ii) Index lists and diagram labels; (iii) Short text boxes in the body of an assignment; (iv) References and/or bibliography lists; and (v) Permitted appended material.

An accurate word count must be given with the coursework. You will be penalised by a 5% reduction in marks if not included, if an inaccurate word count is given this misrepresents the true word count total and will be treated as Academic Dishonesty.

6.1.9 Direct quotations:

These should only be used after careful consideration. Quotes tend to use up the word count, although they can be of value, it is more important we see you are able to summarise or critique and apply what the author is saying into your own words and adapted to the context of your work. All direct quotes should be fully referenced

http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/learn


6.1.11 Reference list: Coursework submission should normally include a reference list . Failure to submit

a reference list may lead to a referral or reduction in the overall mark. A detailed guide to Harvard Style – Plymouth University ‘Cite them right’ referencing can be found at: http://plymouth.libguides.com/referencing

6.1.12 Title Page: A title page must be included for all submitted coursework

Your University/examination registration number or name for assessments that are exempt from anonymous marked assignments

University registration number

Programme title e.g. BSc (Hons) Nursing; BSc (Hons) Midwifery

Module code e. g. NRS 403

Module title

Assignment/Portfolio title (if appropriate)

Site where the module was delivered

The module leaders’ and teachers’ name

Submission deadline date

An accurate word count.

6.1.13 Coursework Presentation: Arial font size 12, left justified and without

underlining to facilitate readability.

Printed on single or double sided paper.

1.4 inch/4 cm left hand margin. Double-space all lines (Indented quotes should be single spaced).

Pages numbered.

Charts, tables or diagrams must be clearly titled, referenced and linked to their accompanying text.

6.1.14 Portfolios: Module teachers will provide guidance on the construction of your portfolio. The

content is normally mapped to the module learning outcomes and specific assignment criteria. Please avoid developing portfolios with an excessive quantity of material. In general portfolios are not returned.

6.1.15 Vivas and oral presentations: The module teacher will provide you with the module specific assessment

information. 6.1.16 Posters: Guidance on the requirements and presentation of posters will be provided by the

module teacher. 6.1.17 Plagiarism

http://plymouth.libguides.com/referencing


https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/your-studies/essential-information/regulations/plagiarism Plagiarism is taken very seriously by the University and can lead to a formal disciplinary process. If even a small section of your work is found to have been plagiarised, you may get a mark of ‘0’ for that assignment, pending an investigation. All electronically submitted work is scanned for plagiarism.

Professional bodies require Universities to report proven cases of academic dishonesty by students on post-qualifying programmes to their employer.

6.1.18 Integrated Structured Clinical Examinations (ISCE) O/ISCEs are a form of simulated clinical examination which evaluates how a student performs as a clinician and how a student applies the theory of what they have learnt to a simulated clinical situation. It is also used to demonstrate competence and safety in clinical skills delivery. O/ISCEs can be used as the sole assessment for a module or can be used in conjunction with other assessments such as an essay, a report or case study. If the module includes an O/ISCE in conjunction with another assessment method, this mark may be aggregated.

6.1.19 Unsafe practice

As in other methods of assessment, if you are considered to have been unsafe in your performance at an O/ISCE this will normally be classed as an automatic referral.

6.1.20 Quality Assurance

As you are being assessed, there will occasionally be another person present who is monitoring the O/ISCE event. On the day of assessment the module teacher or leader will advise the cohort group if there as any extra movement of staff. This will be kept to a minimum to ensure it does not disturb concentration of the student.

6.1.21 Guidance for students with specific learning support requirements or long

term conditions undertaking an O/ISCE Some students might need additional support for an O/ISCE event. This is commonly when stations include a short answer paper or similar exercise. If a student has cause to approach Disability Assess Services (DAS) for any specific learning support it is advisable to discuss with the module tutor. Any student with concerns about their own long term condition should speak to the module teacher to clarify for example use of medication, or the use of latex free gloves.

6.1.22 How to Submit Coursework The Faculty is moving towards e-submission of coursework your tutor will guide

you on submission. However some elements will need to be submitted by hand. Feedback forms are used to record comments and grades awarded by markers

and to provide feedback on your summative coursework and practice documents (if appropriate). Your Tutor will inform you when feedback can be expected / if a SAE is required or you will receive feedback electronically.

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/your-studies/essential-information/regulations/plagiarism



All coursework/portfolios must be submitted by 16.00 hours on the notified submission date to the relevant Reception area. For non-electronic submissions students have the option of posting in their work using Special Delivery which must arrive by the specified submission time and date. Special Delivery is required to corroborate the posting. The envelope should be addressed to Programme Adminsitration and clearly marked ‘Summative Coursework for Module (E.G.NRS 403), together with the submission date clearly indicated. This is to ensure that it is dealt with promptly. If posted material arrives after the notified hand in date and time for that assignment it will be treated as a late submission.

Work submitted after the required submission date/time will be dealt with in

accordance with University Regulations http://plymouth.ac.uk/studenthandbook Extenuating Circumstances: If you anticipate that you will be unable to meet a

submission deadline due to adverse personal circumstances You must complete an Extenuating Circumstances Form.

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/your-studies/essential-information/regulations 6.2 Procedure in the event of failure Students will be permitted TWO attempts at practice elements of the programme but will be permitted THREE attempts at theoretical components. However it is important to note the following:

Failure in up to 60 credits If you fail up to 60 credits, you will be allowed to re-sit / resubmit the appropriate assessment(s) as specified by the Award Assessment Board at the next available opportunity.

Failure in more than 60 credits If a student fails more than 60 stage one or stage two credits, the Award Assessment Board may, at its discretion apply any of the following: 1) Require the student to repeat the failed module with attendance in the following

academic year. 2) Exceptionally allow the student to re-sit/resubmit the appropriate assessments

at the next available opportunity, based on a judgement of the student’s performance and potential

3) Require the student to withdraw from the programme 6.2.1 Failure after Re-sit Students may not progress to year 2 or year 3 (as appropriate) unless they have passed all the required modules for year one or year two, including practice components. Student will have two further opportunities to resit referred theory and practice following the end of year Award Assessment Board.

http://plymouth.ac.uk/studenthandbook



The first resit opportunity will be presented at the Award Assessment Resit Board held six weeks following the end of year Award Assessment Board. The second opportunity will be presented at the extended Award Assessment Resit Board held eleven weeks following the end of year Award Assessment Board. Any student who has not achieved all module components by this Award Assessment Board will automatically be repeating the outstanding modules and be unable to progress into year two. This meets both the Nursing and Midwifery Council requirement that all theory and practice is completed for an academic year by week twelve of the next academic year before the student is allowed to progress into year two or three and has met the NMC progression points for the programme. 6.2.2 Repeat with Attendance Students required to repeat with attendance after any of the Award Assessment Boards will enrol on the new cohort and must repeat the modules outstanding with attendance, meaning all lectures and module time is to be attended.

Where practice has been referred, students must repeat the practice in a placement where the specific outcomes can be achieved.

Please see Section 1.6 relating to fees for NHS Funded programmes. 6.3 Appeal against the decision of an Award Assessment Board You must submit your appeal by no later than 10 working days after the date of publication of the official results list (not the date of issue on your transcript). It is in your best interests to submit your appeal as soon as possible. Although the University will do what it can to expedite matters, there is no guarantee that your case will be resolved prior to any re-sit examinations. The later you appeal, the less likely it is that you will get a decision in time. You will be expected to complete re-sits/repeat with attendance as usual unless your appeal has by then been resolved and the initial decision reviewed. 6.4 The Appeal Procedure The appeal procedure is only concerned with the decisions of Assessment Boards and the assessment process which gives rise to these. You cannot use the appeal procedure to deal with problems experienced with the delivery of your course, supervisory issues or the availability of facilities, for example. You should use the Universities complaints procedure to pursue these issues. If, after considering your case, we believe the issues you raise would be dealt with more appropriately via the complaints procedure, we will advise you on how to proceed making a compliant. More information is available from the University Complaints Office on 01752 582053 or can be found in the University Student Handbook Grounds for appeal The university will only consider an appeal where you can produce evidence that:

https://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/ouruniversity/teachlearn/Handbook/A-C/Pages/default.aspx%23AssessmentPolicy


Assessments were not conducted in accordance with the current Assessment Regulations

Some other material irregularity, related to assessment, has occurred

Appeals against academic or professional judgement will not be considered. Disappointment with your results if your marks were accurately recorded, assessment regulations were followed and there is no evidence of material irregularity does not constitute grounds for appeal. Nor is the level of your marks in itself evidence of irregularity. Extenuating Circumstances Extenuating circumstances that you did not submit to your Faculty before the Assessment Board met will only be considered as grounds for appeal in the most exceptional circumstances (normally because you were unable to disclose the circumstances in advance) since the university allows you to submit extenuating circumstances under confidential cover, the fact that you did not wish to disclose personal information will not normally be considered as an exceptional circumstance. Any claim of extenuating circumstances which you wish to use as grounds for appeal must be accompanied by appropriate corroborating evidence. Link to extenuating circumstances policy 6.5 Student Complaints Procedure Introduction The University aims to provide high quality services to students. Unfortunately things occasionally go wrong and we need to be made aware when this happens so we can respond and ultimately improve our services. Whatever your complaint you can expect it to be dealt with promptly and fairly and in line with the University’s policies and procedures. You will not be disadvantaged or treated less favourably by making a complaint. Information on the complaints procedure can be found using the link below. https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/your-studies/essential-information/complaints-appeals-and-conduct This is a separate activity to the appeals process.

7. DIGITAL LEARNING ENVIRONMENT (DLE) The digital learning environment is a one stop, single log in for all the information and services to support your programme. This includes: Access to timetabling Access to e-portfolio Access to library information Access to Moodle Access to Statement of Results 7.1 Moodle

https://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/essentialinfo/exams/Pages/Extenuating-circumstances.aspx

https://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/essentialinfo/exams/Pages/Extenuating-circumstances.aspx

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/your-studies/essential-information/complaints-appeals-and-conduct

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/your-studies/essential-information/complaints-appeals-and-conduct


This is the on line platform for all your teaching materials and information relating to the programme. Each module has its own site and will contain the module handbook, teaching material, support packages and guidelines for your assessment. There is also a programme site which contains the programme handbook and all other aspects of a programme not included in taught sessions, e.g. information about bursaries, timesheets, travel claims, mandatory sessions, etc. Moodle can be accessed through the student portal (http://student.plymouth.ac.uk) by following the links to the Digital Learning Environment (DLE). 7.2 Introduction to Library Services 7.2.1 Students with special needs The university has a specialist unit, Disability Assist (DAS). DAS is responsible for assessment, guidance and coordination of support provision for students with specific learning difficulties and/or disabilities in connection with examinations and other matters. DAS is based in the Learning Gateway, Roland Lewinsky Building on the Plymouth campus (telephone 01752 587676) website: If you have any requirements you are aware of think you may need, please contact DAS as soon as possible so provision can be put in place for you. 7.2.2 Getting started with using the Library Services for Health Students

The Faculty of Health and Human Sciences has two main teaching sites (Plymouth and Truro), each with comparable library facilities. All health students may use facilities at either site. You need to check local opening hours and local policies on loans and overdue charges. You also need to register locally for your library card.

For Plymouth students, the information about the library can be found on the university website at www.plymouth.ac.uk/library. There are details about opening hours, facilities and links to the library search (Primo) which also gives access to all the library’s electronic resources. Your university identity card is used as your library card. Your library account is activated once you enrol.

Your information specialist for health is Julie Moody, Email: [email protected] Telephone: 01752 587122

The Plymouth library catalogue (Primo) allows you to search for books, e-books, journal articles, theses or DVDs all in one search. To access the electronic materials you need to ensure that you access Primo through the Library pages after logging in with your username and password. Do not bookmark or add the link to Primo to your Favourites. You can also search for individual journal titles via the A-Z link on Primo or for individual databases such as Cinahl Plus with Full Text, Cochrane Library or InterNurse, using the Find Databases link. Sign in using your university username and password to access your library account to recall or renew items.

http://student.plymouth.ac.uk/

http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/disability/Pages/default.aspx

http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/library



If you generally use the library at the Knowledge Spa in Truro, you can find all the information about using the Library on the website http://www.rcht.nhs.uk/RoyalCornwallHospitalsTrust/OurServices/AZServices/L/LibraryServices/LibraryServices.aspx Your subject librarian for health is Anne Brown, Email: [email protected] Telephone: 01872 256447

The Truro library catalogue (SWIMS) can be searched online at http://www.swims.nhs.uk/webview/

The subject-specific library guides (Libguides) can be found at http://plymouth.libguides.com

which give information about doing research, referencing and how to use the library. There are also links to Primo and useful databases and guides from this website.

Both sites have photocopying facilities, using a card system for payment.

Opening hours

Plymouth University Library (Charles Seale-Hayne Library) is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Opening times at hospital libraries and Knowledge Spa, Truro will vary and will need to be checked locally. It is particularly important to check with individual libraries before visiting during the summer, Christmas or Easter vacation periods. 7.3 Computing Services When you arrive at the University you self-register for a computing account and are given a unique username and password to access it. The account provides you with secure file space on the network (u-drive), a mailbox and an email address (e.g. [email protected]). It also allows access to a fleet of nearly 1800 networked student PCs with a wide variety of software applications, electronic resources and services provided by the University and external bodies. Open access computing areas are available on all Faculty of Health and Human Sciences teaching sites (Plymouth and Truro). You should access your mailbox; file space and resources through the student portal at http://student.plymouth.ac.uk whether you're using a University networked PC or your own at home. This way you will be automatically authenticated for many of the external electronic resources available such as journals and databases. Your portal homepage will show links to the Digital Learning Environment (DLE) where you can access Moodle which contains course material, lecture notes, electronic reading lists, programme and module information as well as tools such as Lynda for IT training, PebblePad (e-portfolio) and the Library. E-mail account You will be provided with a Plymouth University e-mail account. Please note this is the address the University will use to correspond with you.

http://www.rcht.nhs.uk/RoyalCornwallHospitalsTrust/OurServices/AZServices/L/LibraryServices/LibraryServices.aspx

http://www.rcht.nhs.uk/RoyalCornwallHospitalsTrust/OurServices/AZServices/L/LibraryServices/LibraryServices.aspx


http://www.swims.nhs.uk/webview/

http://plymouth.libguides.com/


http://student.plymouth.ac.uk/


7.4 IT Training Resources The University has a campus wide subscription to lynda.com which is a comprehensive library of video-based training resources. This service is available to all University staff and students and provides a wide range of tutorials dedicated to a continually growing and evolving library covering a wide range of software, technologies and business topics. Visit lynda.plymouth.ac.uk to watch an introduction video and to access over 2400 courses and 110000 tutorials with new releases every week.

8. Information for students about research Faculty of Health and Human Sciences Studies All practitioners in the health professions rely upon good quality research. This provides the evidence to enable practitioners to plan appropriate patient care, it also enables educators to plan and deliver courses that meet the needs of the professions. In the School of Nursing and Midwifery, we support research activity as an integral part of our professional work. During your course you will hear about the evidence for your practice, speak to active researchers and may be invited to be a participant in projects conducted by researchers from within or outside Plymouth University. A number of the staff in our School are undertaking research, for example we have projects on improving end of life care for people in hospital, improving support for women undergoing antenatal testing and use of IT to promote both health and education. We do receive a number of requests from people who would like to recruit students from our school to research projects, for example you may be asked to fill in a questionnaire, take part in an interview or focus group or allow yourself to be observed in class. Each request is checked to see that ethical approval has been obtained and the study is relevant. As we do not want students to be overwhelmed with requests, we allow a maximum of two requests per cohort per academic year, so you should be asked no more than twice a year. Being a participant in a research project can be a valuable experience for you and may contribute to the knowledge we have and result in better health care, so we encourage you to become involved in projects that interest you during your course. You will usually hear about research projects via an email from our program administration team or via the University website. Professor Ruth Endacott Director Centre for Health and Social Care Innovation, Plymouth University Professor of Critical Care Nursing, Monash University, Melbourne

9. Faculty and University Student Support Plymouth University has a number of services and resources available to support you on this programme including:

Financial Support


http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/money/Pages/default.aspx Student Funding Office can help with:

student funding issues – Student Loans, Postgraduate funding advice

hardship provisions – HE Access to Learning Fund, University Retention Fund, Emergency Fund and Short Term Loan Scheme

bursaries – National Scholarship Programme & Plymouth University bursaries Scholarships and Bursaries https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/study/fees/scholarships-bursaries-and-funding Care leaver bursary NSP Scholarship NHS Scholarship Excellence awards Disabled Students’ Allowance Retention Fund HE Access to Learning Fund Financial aid for students from USA and Canada Financial Aid for other International Students Subject or Course specific bursaries

The “What Just Happened Fund” – help for students and the families of students receiving emergency hospital care

Learning and Personal Support The Learning Gateway. The One Stop Shop

https://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/learninggateway/Pages/default.aspx Telephone: 01752 587676 Learning Development Tutorials with Learning Development Aims to empower students to think critically and creatively and can help with: Writing Developing an academic voice Thinking and reflecting Using and referencing literature Reading strategically and making useful notes Preparing for exams and presentations Managing time Coping with study stress There are also study guides on these and other topics https://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/learningdevelopment/Pages/study-guides.aspx Peer Assisted Learning Scheme (PALS) http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/pals/Pages/default.aspx

http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/money/Pages/default.aspx

http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/money/Pages/default.aspx

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/study/fees/scholarships-bursaries-and-funding

https://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/learninggateway/Pages/default.aspx

http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/learningdevelopment/Pages/Tutorials.aspx

https://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/learningdevelopment/Pages/study-guides.aspx

http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/pals/Pages/default.aspx

http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/pals/Pages/default.aspx


PALs provides students with a chance to study in a relaxed environment, along with other students on the same programme. PALS sessions are led by higher level students who have recent experience of the same modules. Tutorials with Royal Literary Fund Writing Fellow https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/learning-gateway/learning-development/royal-literary-fund-writing-fellow The Fellow is available to help all Plymouth University students - undergraduates and postgraduates alike - with queries and problems relating to the practical aspects of academic writing. The Writing Cafe https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/learning-gateway/learning-development/writing-cafe The Writing Café offers a flexible and innovative learning space where numerous activities and events will be hosted throughout the year. Writing Mentors encourage the sharing of writing and help to build a collaborative community where people engage with their own writing and the writing of others Learning Development https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/learning-gateway/learning-development The Drop in Zone is the place for quick and informal help with a member of the Learning Development team. The team is located on the ground floor of the library in the glass room. This is also where help is available from Sum Up (see more below) and English language support (see more below) Online Support https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/learning-gateway/learning-development Learning Development online support is available so students can ask questions about academic skills, conventions and Higher Education learning. We can offer advice on strategies and resources as well as answer specific study questions on a variety of topics including: Referencing; Essay structure; Language; Interpreting feedback; Writing; Presentations; Critical analysis To ask us a specific study question email [email protected] Learning Support and Wellbeing Events Free Personal Development Sessions Introduction to Mindfulness Overcoming Panic and Anxiety Worry: How to manage it Overcoming Insomnia

https://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/learningdevelopment/Pages/RLF.aspx



https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/learning-gateway/learning-development/royal-literary-fund-writing-fellow

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/learning-gateway/learning-development/royal-literary-fund-writing-fellow

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/learning-gateway/learning-development/writing-cafe

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/learning-gateway/learning-development/writing-cafe

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/learning-gateway/learning-development

http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/learningdevelopment/Pages/Online-Support.aspx

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/learning-gateway/learning-development


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Critical Thinking and Reflection Boost your Self-Esteem Reflective Writing Think Critically, Write Confidently How to Improve Your Social Life How to Overcome Reading Difficulties Presenting with Confidence Boost your Confidence Positive Revision Strategies Plagiarism and the Shoulders of Giants Stop Procrastinating

Disability Assist https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/learning-gateway/disability-and-dyslexia Disability Assist is part of Learning Support and Wellbeing and is here to help with your study support requirements if you have a disability. Whether you are an applicant, a current student, an international student or progressing from one of our partner colleges, we will work with you to help you make informed decisions about any support that might help you with your studies Disability can mean different things to different people. It may include you if you have study support requirements related to a disability, for example:

dyslexia

specific learning disabilities

mental health difficulties

autism

A long term health condition.

Please contact us if you need assistance with your studies for any of the reasons above. Multi-Faith Chaplaincy http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/faith/Pages/default.aspx This is available for everyone on campus, staff or student, whether you have a faith, are searching for faith, or just want to meet people. Student Counselling and Personal Development Service https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/learning-gateway/counselling Offers counselling ; Workshops and groups; Self-help resources; E-counselling; Bibliotherapy; Referral; Information for staff SUM:UP https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/learning-gateway/learning-development/sum-up Sum Up is located in Plymouth University library and offers expert advice on all aspects of undergraduate mathematics and statistics. It provides online and paper-based support, and a drop-in centre where students can receive one-to-one assistance Other Resources http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/learningdevelopment/Pages/Other-Resources.aspx












https://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/disability/Pages/default.aspx


https://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/faith/Pages/default.aspx

http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/faith/Pages/default.aspx

http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/faith/Pages/default.aspx

https://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/counselling/Pages/default.aspx

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/learning-gateway/counselling

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/learning-gateway/counselling

http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/counselling/offer/Pages/counselling.aspx

http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/counselling/offer/Pages/CBT.aspx

http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/counselling/offer/Pages/workshops.aspx

http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/counselling/offer/Pages/resources.aspx

http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/counselling/offer/Pages/E-counselling.aspx

http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/counselling/offer/Pages/Bibliotherapy.aspx

http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/counselling/offer/Pages/Referral.aspx

http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/counselling/offer/Pages/staff.aspx

https://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/sumup/Pages/default.aspx

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/learning-gateway/learning-development/sum-up

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/learning-gateway/learning-development/sum-up

http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/learningdevelopment/Pages/Other-Resources.aspx


Writing for Assignments E-Library (wrasse) is a resource to help people learn about writing at university. It includes:

examples of student essays and other university assignments from a number of subject areas

comments from lecturers about why the writing is good - or how it could be

improved developing an academic voice. Widening Participation The Care leaver service https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/learning-gateway/care-leavers/care-leavers-funding This is a dedicated service for students who have been in local authority care. The service assesses eligibility for the care leaver bursary and provides an advice officer to support care leavers in whatever way they can. 52 week accommodation is offered to all care leavers receiving a bursary so they will always have somewhere to stay in university vacations. The service has also funded a pilot Life Coaching project this year which maybe available in future years. The International Student Advisory Service http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/isas/Pages/default.aspx Located in the International Student Gateway provides specialist support and guidance for Plymouth University international students, to get the most out of their time in the UK. English Language Support is available for all international students at Plymouth University. http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/englishlanguagecentre/Pages/default.aspx The Languages Café https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/schools/school-of-tourism-and-hospitality/languages-caf_ The Languages Café promotes communication across languages and across cultures. It is a meeting place for students, staff and Plymouth residents to practise their language skills over a coffee, in an informal and fun environment. It is held in the English Language Centre in the Business School. Weekly sessions run in a relaxed and sociable environment with native speakers to help guide conversations in French, Spanish and English, and occasionally German or Chinese (Mandarin). Plymouth Award Find out more about the Award, activities that count towards it and help with the reflective essay. https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/your-studies/plymouth-award

Outreach Officer

University Student Support Services

Plymouth Campus Library

Computing Facilities

Counselling Services

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/learning-gateway/care-leavers/care-leavers-funding

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/learning-gateway/care-leavers/care-leavers-funding

http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/isas/Pages/default.aspx

http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/englishlanguagecentre/Pages/default.aspx

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/schools/school-of-tourism-and-hospitality/languages-caf_

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/your-studies/plymouth-award


Careers Service

Information for students with specific learning difficulties and/or disabilities and other (short term) needs

Health and Safety Information

International Office

For further information is available in the student handbook


10. CAREERS AND EMPLOYABILITY SERVICE Careers Interviews Appointments with our Careers Advisers are available Monday-Friday. Bookable on the day by calling +44 (0)1752 587456. Students can also arrange appointments by calling in to the Careers and Employability Hub, Roland Levinsky Building or Email queries: [email protected] Careers Information There is a wealth of information held in the Careers Library available in different formats. The Careers Library is located on the middle floor of the Library at the Plymouth campus. The information is available on a self help basis and covers a variety of topics including careers information, employers, study/work abroad, self employment, vacation work, voluntary work, postgraduate study/funding, job seeking skills, placements/work experience plus much more. Computer Databases A number of databases exist to help with student research into courses and employers. e.g., ECCTIS database covers all UK courses including postgraduate study, part time courses, etc. Other directories are available in CD format, e.g., Kompass Business Directory - all very useful for employer contact information. Postgraduate Study Information The Careers Library stocks postgraduate course directories, information on research councils and funding sources. Presentations and Workshops There are a variety of employer led and Careers Service presentations and workshops running from October - April. The employer led presentations concentrate on opportunities for graduates in a particular company or industry. The Careers Service workshops cover a number of career-related topics for finalists including Interview Skills, Writing CVs, Application Forms, Assessment Centres and Psychometric Testing. Details of workshops and presentations are displayed on Careers Service notice boards and the Careers Service web site. Vacancy Information There is a wealth of vacancy information available for final year students from September onwards. Information includes FREE graduate directories, (e.g., 'Prospects Directory' and 'GET'), 'Prospects' Vacancy Bulletins (including 'Prospects Today' and 'Prospects Finalist') and the Careers Service Vacancy Bulletin. Vacancies are also displayed on Vacancy notice boards. Increasingly, vacancy information is available from various web sites



including the Prospects website (www.prospects.csu.ac.uk.). If you need help locating these, contact the Careers Service for advice. There are also specialist publications and bulletins containing specific vacancies. Again, contact the Careers Service for further details of these. Campus Recruitment (‘Milk round’) A number of employers visit Plymouth University each year to conduct selection interviews for their annual intake of graduates. Details of visiting employers looking to interview finalists are displayed in the Careers Service from September onwards. Essential Careers Web sites The main web sites for students to be aware of are: www.plymouth.ac.uk/careers Includes details of Careers Service facilities/services, vacancies, graduate destinations, part-time jobs, Jewels Award, events, plus much more… www.prospects.csu.ac.uk Includes careers information, work experience/placements, vacancies, labour market information, graduate destinations, postgraduate study, help with job seeking, Prospects 'Quick Match', Prospects Direct CV service, plus much more… www.gradsouthwest.com Includes vacancies for jobseekers looking for work in the south west Opportunities Students completing the course successfully are eligible to apply for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council. Employment rates are very high for qualified nurses. Qualified nurses have access to a wide range of employment opportunities. These can include acute hospital care, community care, working in the independent sector, care organisations abroad and charitable organisations. The University provides a range of higher degree programmes. There are opportunities for post-qualifying study at post-graduate level and short, specialist clinical skills courses. Employability and Volunteering As a student at Plymouth University, you acquire many employability skills through academic and placement learning, life and by being a student. Volunteering, term time and vacation jobs, work placements and work-based learning all contribute to your experience of work and the reality of applying for and succeeding at work. Career Gateway is the place to find direct support for job opportunities, career guidance with careers advisers, placement opportunities and ideas for volunteering and extra-curricular activities. Some of these people will also contribute employability sessions to your studies. Reflection and education, thinking about what you are doing, deciding what you want to do, what works for you and where you are going next are an essential part of being an effective member of society. You will be helped to develop your reflective and evaluation skills during your time with us in a variety of ways, including via the personal tutor system and activities that lead to the Plymouth Award.

http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/careers

http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/careers

http://www.prospects.csu.ac.uk/

http://www.prospects.csu.ac.uk/

http://www.gradsouthwest.com/

http://www.gradsouthwest.com/


Your challenge is to get involved and make sure that your qualification is a pass “plus”. Your level of qualification will tell employers something about your subject knowledge and understanding as well as the skills and competencies you have developed that are specific to that discipline. However, they will be really interested in the additional activities in which you have engaged and how you have extended your knowledge, understanding skills and experience outside the curriculum through a huge range of opportunities which the University provides directly or to which it can signpost you. Not only do employers expect you to have done these extra-curricular activities, but they also expect you to have learnt from them and be able to talk about your skills and attributes and how you use them. Examples of nursing specific employability skills Students of nursing develop skills that are transferable to the workplace including management and leadership; problem solving, communicating, counselling and many more specific to field of study e.g. Adult, Mental Health and Child. DECIPHer ASSIST Trainers In partnership with Plymouth City Council some Child Health students have been given the opportunity to become DECIPHer ASSIST Trainers, which is a peer supporter programme. It provides them with the opportunity to deliver a programme to prevent children from smoking. Although delivered in the Plymouth vicinity there are moves to deliver this to a wider community providing more employability opportunities. This programme has been integrated into the nursing programme but provides opportunity outside of the university and beyond graduation. Peer Assist Learning (PALs) A number of our students are actively involved with Peer Assisted Learning (PALs). This involves regular discipline-specific group sessions run by experienced students (PALS Leaders) for new or less experienced students. As a PALS Leader, experienced students work with other students on their course to consolidate and deepen their learning in an informal group environment. This experience provides graduates with key skills in mentoring and facilitating others, in addition to enhancing interpersonal skills and confidence. University Scholarships Research Degrees Students who obtain a good (2:1 Upper Second or 1st) degree may wish to continue to postgraduate study at the Faculty of Health and Human Sciences PhD projects could be supervised at any of the Faculty sites. For further information please refer to the postgraduate opportunities on the Faculty of Health and Human Sciences website.

11. STUDENT UNION

What is UPSU: and what can it do for you? As a student, you are represented by the Students’ Union and every student at the university automatically becomes a member. Representation basically means that if you have any problems in or outside university we are here to help. We offer an advice service with trained advisors offering you help in academic, financial or legal advice. If you have any problems with your course, a lecturer or the university we can represent your views and ensure your concerns are heard.


The Union is also the social hub of the university so if you want food, drink (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic!), entertainment, bars, games, TV, somewhere to meet and chat the Union has got it covered. It is also the place to join all the sports clubs and societies. There are over eighty to choose from so if you fancy skydiving, power boating, football or even the joining Nursoc the Union is the place to be. UPSU has a long history of volunteering within our local communities and provides students with a fantastic opportunity to develop their skills and experience. You might find that volunteering changes your life or the life of those you help. Our Student Community Action Project (SCAP) works with charities and has been involved in developing gardens in community centres or travelling to Kenya to help build schools. For more information on everything we do please come and visit. You can check out our website at www.upsu.com or email our President [email protected] Students’ Union Advice Centre (UPSU:advice) We offer a service that is completely confidential and independent from the University. Our service is free and we can give impartial advice on a range of issues including problems with Student Finance, Accommodation and Welfare Benefits. We also specialise in Academic Regulations and advise on Appeals, Complaints and Extenuating Circumstances. We are open 9.30am-5pm Monday – Thursday; 9.30 – 4.30pm Friday Term Time 10am-4pm Monday – Friday Non Term Time. You can contact us on: Tel: 01752 588373 / 0800 953 0155 Email: [email protected] Website: www.upsu.com/advice Nursing and Midwifery Society (NURSOC) This is a Student Union Society set up specifically for Nurses and Midwives. NURSOC offers you free educational talks from guest speakers across all branches of nursing and midwifery; which will include a HIV talk coming soon. Support and guidance is available throughout a challenging course. The Society arranges organised activities such as bowling, meals, ice skating and nights out, all with exclusive discounts for members. This society is a good way to socialise with students across all branches of nursing and midwifery!

To find out more “Like” us on Facebook at NURSOC Plymouth

Follow us on twitter @NurSocplymouth

12. ADDITIONAL POLICIES AND GUIDELINES FOR NURSING AND MIDWIFERY



http://www.upsu.com/advice


This section gives guidance for all students on pre-registration nursing and midwifery programmes. 12.1 Personal Details/Data Protection Please inform the Professional Services team of any changes to your name and/or address or that of your next of kin, preferably before the event. Changes of name should be supported by the necessary documentation (e.g. marriage certificate, copy of statement to solicitor etc.). It is your responsibility to ensure you maintain current addresses on your student record. It is particularly important any changes to your parents/registered home address are recorded as all end of year transcripts are automatically sent to the listed ‘home’ address. You can change your address on line: http://students.plymouth.ac.uk/MyEdesk We need to be informed of movement within term time accommodation as well as movement in and out. This information is not supplied by the accommodation office. It is important you also advise the NHS Business Services Agency of any change of address or name using your BOSS account and uploading the relevant change forms and any evidence if needed. The University Policy relating to data protection can be found on line and includes sharing information with other parties. Link to Personal Information and data protection 12.2 Attendance Policy for Students The Faculty of Health and Human Sciences has a policy for managing both negotiated and unforeseen student absences from the programme. This is to ensure compliance with the statutory attendance requirements of the NMC and the need to demonstrate responsible financial management of public funds. It is an expectation of Plymouth University and a programme requirement, that you attend your practice placements on a regular and punctual basis. As evidence of meeting this requirement, you are responsible for completing a monthly time sheet of placement information, which is then logged onto your training record. The timesheet should be initialled on a daily basis either by your mentor or your supervisor. However only the authorised mentors may sign the mentor declaration for Placement on the timesheets. Any irregularities or dishonesty in clinical records or assessment documentation will be treated as a very serious breach of academic and professional regulations. You are also expected to attend study sessions. Prolonged or repeated periods of absence threaten the educational viability and continuity of a programme of study and can be disruptive to fellow students. Whilst learning outcomes can be met in a number of ways, absence may nullify the benefits to be gained from learning activities such as seminar presentations, debates and group work. This is particularly the case for those modules using problem based learning, when full commitment from all students is required. Please note that the Plymouth University has a general policy for attendance of theory to be found in the University Student Handbook.

http://students.plymouth.ac.uk/

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/your-studies/essential-information/data-protection


The Faculty of Health and Human Sciences has a responsibility to monitor patterns of attendance and absence. This monitoring forms part of a quality assurance process. It is also undertaken to ensure that individual students are not placed at any unnecessary risk to their health or well being. Repeated patterns of absence can indicate the need to resolve underlying personal issues or matters related to placements or programme design for that individual. It is always more constructive for students to raise matters likely to affect their attendance or studies before they become serious issues. This enables appropriate solutions to be identified / negotiated at an early stage. It cannot be over-emphasised that the Faculty of Health and Human Sciences operates this policy with the aim of achieving supportive solutions to what may be experienced as complex and distressing personal circumstances. www.plymouth.ac.uk/studenthandbook Nursing and Midwifery students should also be aware of the guidance for students undertaking paid employment in addition to programme hours at 6.2. Sponsored students Sponsored students are supported by their sponsoring Trusts and the University. If medical certificates are required to be handed in by a student they must give the original to their Trust and a copy to the Professional Services team at the University. The attendance policy noted above also applies to sponsored students. Engagement and Attendance Monitoring International Students Please note that Plymouth University and Plymouth University International College record information about students‘ engagement and attendance on their programme. We expect students to engage honestly with systems put in place to do this, and may take disciplinary action against any student who attempts to bypass systems or provide false information regarding engagement and attendance, whether their own or another student’s. Information recorded about an individual student’s engagement and attendance will only be acted on at their Faculty’s discretion and as per academic regulations, unless there is a concern for the student’s health or wellbeing, or the student holds a Tier 4 visa. Please see separate information regarding the University’s responsibility to monitor the engagement of Tier 4 students, and actions that are taken if a Tier 4 student is not attending or engaging with their course satisfactorily. Information for Tier 4 students can be found here 12.2.1 Authorised Absences It is the responsibility of the student to report any absence. Sickness You must notify the University and your placement area if you are off sick whilst on placement. The University should be advised if you are off sick on a theory day. The sickness will be documented on your student record and the relevant lecture staff will be informed.

http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/studenthandbook

http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/international/compliance/current-student


Please advise the appropriate student reception/programme administration team for your programme. Working hours are shown below and all phones are able to take out of hours messages. Monday – Thursday 8.30am – 5pm Friday 8.30am – 4.3pm Contact numbers can be found at the front of this handbook. In addition there are generic e-mail accounts you can use: Cornwall based students [email protected] Plymouth based students [email protected] [email protected] Medical Certificates Evidence of incapacity to attend the Faculty of Health and Human Sciences or a clinical placement on health grounds is required as follows: 4-7 calendar day’s absence - Self certification form 7+ calendar day’s absence - Fitness to work certificates to be submitted at regular

intervals. All days of absence must be covered. Prolonged periods of sickness should be brought to the attention of your personal tutor as soon as possible. 12.2.2 Negotiated Absences

Absence from specific taught sessions If you have relevant previous academic qualifications, you may be able to negotiate out of

theory sessions that could be repetitive. You must discuss this with the relevant module leader/teacher.

Compassionate Leave Any personal/domestic crisis that causes intense distress or severe disruption and requires a brief period of authorised absence to resolve can be discussed. One to three working days absence can be approved by your personal tutor, four to six days can be approved by the Field Specific Lead. Any compassionate leave which requires more than seven days must be negotiated with the Field Specific Lead.

Pregnancy and Maternity Leave You must notify your personal tutor as soon as possible after the pregnancy is confirmed. You would normally continue on the programme until eleven weeks before your expected date of confinement. However, you may continue further on the programme if you are fit to do so. You must negotiate initially with your personal tutor about your anticipated return date prior to commencing your maternity leave. The personal tutor will then liaise with the Field





Specific Lead and Programme Administration team. Please note that any return will be subject to vacancies. You will be entitled to 52 weeks maternity bursary whilst you are on maternity leave. You will need to provide the University with a copy of the MATB1 prior to claiming maternity bursary and you must complete the appropriate forms to be returned to the NHS BSA. The Programme Administration team will assist you with these. You are advised to maintain your studies during this period in order to be able to effectively re-join the programme. NB: Any return to the programme is subject to a place being available at the time of your return. See Appendix 1 for more information regarding Pregnancy

Paternity Leave There is an entitlement of up to ten days paternity leave; you should approach your personal tutor if you need a longer period of compassionate leave.

Jury Service As a juror, you have a chance to play a vital part in our legal system. Since the 2004 changes in legislation, previous ‘exempt’ categories of students, and registered health professionals are now eligible for jury service. This is a civic responsibility on individuals and one that is consistent with professional standing in the wider community. The jury service period is for 10 working days (Monday – Friday). In the situation where a case exceeds this – potential jurors are asked if they can serve on a long case – they have an option to say no to this for a number of reasons including employees’ willingness to extended release and inconveniences to family life on an extended case. All jurors can request one deferral to a jury summons but when the second date is set they must attend. Clearly there may be personal reasons for you not wishing to undertake jury service and you would deal with these via the clerk of court as an individual. This policy relates to jury service affecting your education programme. Students can no longer gain ‘exemption’ from jury service on the grounds of being in healthcare environments. If you receive a jury summons, you should discuss it with your personal tutor in the first instance. Further information concerning jury service can be found at: Jury Service Link 12.2.3 Unforeseen Circumstances Dependants Leave, Bad Weather, Strike Action It is expected that you will make every effort to attend the Faculty of Health and Human Sciences or your placements. However, it is accepted that in certain situations it may not be possible or safe for you to do so.

https://www.gov.uk/jury-service/overview


You must notify the placement area and Programme Administration Team. 12.2.4 Non-authorised absences Non-authorised / non-notified absences or non-attendance at lectures/seminars or placements may result in discontinuation from the course in accordance with the University regulations. Intervention is required whenever your attendance pattern and/or level of sickness or other unaccounted absences may indicate a cause for concern. Initially you will be required to meet with your personal tutor to discuss this concern. The intention at this stage is to explore and address any specific problems that might be contributing to this pattern of absence. Your subsequent attendance patterns may need to be kept under review. Where you exceed an aggregate total of 75 hours absence, certified or uncertified, over a 12 month period, Programme Administration Team will inform your personal tutor and Field Specific Lead who will meet with you. The record of this meeting will document the actions to be taken by both parties to monitor the situation and resolve difficulties. 12.2.5 Bank Holidays Students are not automatically entitled to take a bank holiday off whilst on placement as the bank holiday entitlement has been calculated as part of your annual leave. If the placement area is open and the student has been allocated a shift then the student must attend. Otherwise if the placement area is closed the student does not need to attend placement. Experience Record Sheets need to reflect Day Off or hours worked. 12.2.6 Absence from Practice, Recording of Hours Students are required to record their theory and practice hours on a monthly timesheet as noted in 12.2.7 below. The programme is designed to ensure all students achieve the required amount of practice hours to meet the Nursing and Midwifery Council requirements. Included in the scheduled programme practice hours is an allowance for ten days sickness/absence over three years. It is recommended students who have had a period of sickness or absence from practice in year one and two consider undertaking additional hours to ensure they meet the practice requirements by the end of their programme. Additional practice time to make up sickness/absence must be undertaken within your own time. This time must be recorded and notified on your timesheet using the “PMU” code. It is your responsibility to keep track of this time. 12.2.7 Timesheets (Student Experience Record) Timesheets are an essential document recording the theory and practice you have undertaken and must be completed. Timesheets should be submitted to Student Reception by the end of the first week of every month. The information contained on your record gives us the data to enter on your NMC record. Absence for any reason must be recorded on you timesheets using the codes provided.


Whilst on practice your timesheet will need to be initialled on a daily basis by your supervisor or mentor. Only your designated mentor can sign the “Mentor declaration” at the bottom of the timesheet. Daily initials are not required for theory days. If you have not submitted your timesheets for three consecutive months, you may be withdrawn from your practice placement until these have been received. If you are unsure how to complete your timesheets, please ask for clarification from the Programme Administration Team. Guidelines relating to the complete of timesheets can also be found on Moodle. Timesheets are used to verify travel claim sheets and to record practice hours. 12.3 Financial Support for Nursing and Midwifery students 12.3.1 Student Loans You may be entitled to a reduced rate student loan to cover the balance of your living/travel costs. NHS BSA means tested Bursaries are not intended to meet all your maintenance requirements, so you are encouraged to consider carefully whether you will need a loan to avoid hardship during your course. You should apply for a student loan via the Student Loan Company http://www.slc.co.uk/ 12.3.2 NHS Bursaries The NHS Business Service Authority Unit (NHS BSA) is responsible for assessing, reviewing and paying your means tested bursary entitlements. The information regarding your entitlements and methods of payment is in the Department of Health booklet “Financial Help for Health Care students” Fifth Edition. Copies are available on the Department of Health Website: https://www.gov.uk/nhs-bursaries or emailing [email protected]. . Practice Placement Expenses (PPE) Normal daily travel between your home and normal college base will not be reimbursed. However, the cost of journeys between your term time residence and a clinical placement site which is not part of Plymouth University can be reimbursed providing the cost is in excess of your normal daily travel costs from your term time residence to your Plymouth University base. http://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/students Student Responsibilities You should obtain relevant travel claim forms from Student Reception at the appropriate Faculty of Health and Human Sciences site. These should be completed and submitted to Student Reception on a monthly basis (together with timesheets) for checking and authorisation by the administration team. All receipts for claimable expenditure (e.g. bus tickets, ferry tickets etc.) should be firmly attached. Payment cannot be approved without corresponding tickets and receipts. All travel claims must have a front sheet attached with the barcode from your BOSS account. These claims will then be forwarded onto the NHS BSA. Payment will take approximately twenty days once received and scanned by NHS BSA. All enquiries relating to bursary payments should be directed to the NHS BSA at the following: NHS Business Services Authority (NHSBSA)

http://www.slc.co.uk/

https://www.gov.uk/nhs-bursaries


http://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/students



Middlebrook House Horwich Bolton BL6 6PQ Telephone 0300 330 1345 (Free Call) http://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/students It is important you quote your NHSBSA student reference number on all correspondence with NHSBSA (this is the six digit number which commences with SBA). 12.3.3 Access to Learning Fund For students who are experiencing financial difficulties the University operates an “Access to Learning Fund” which has funds available to assist students. Information relating to the Access to Learning Fund can be obtained by e-mail at [email protected] or telephone 01752 587680. Access to Learning Fund (Hardship Fund) https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/studenthandbook 12.4 Travel Insurance You need to ensure that when you undertake community placements using your own car, your current car insurance provides business cover. In addition any equipment carried in your car needs to be covered by insurance. The NHS BSA requires evidence of adequate insurance as supplied to the University with your placement (PPE) form. Please ensure you provide a copy of the appropriate insurance cover. 12.5 Smoking Policy Details of Plymouth University Smoking Policy can be found in your student handbook. The Faculty of Health and Human Sciences is appreciative of the difficulties that may be associated with trying to adopt this policy and various lines of support and communication are available to staff and student. If you are a smoker and wish to give up smoking or think you will have a problem conforming to this policy, please tell your personal tutor as soon as possible. Under no circumstances must staff/students smoke whilst in uniform. In addition students are subject to the relevant Trust policy whilst in clinical placement. 12.6 Equal Opportunities Plymouth University is fully committed to providing equality of opportunity for all of its staff and students, applicants and visitors. The University will not tolerate unfair or unlawful discrimination on the grounds of gender, ethnicity, colour, disability, religion, nationality, age, occupation, marital status, sexual orientation or any other irrelevant distinction. This policy applies to all aspects of staff and student activity within the University. The following three policies listed are available in full at: in the University Student Handbook

Equal Opportunities;

Harassment;

Race Equality.




https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/studenthandbook

http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/equality/Pages/default.aspx

http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/equality/Pages/default.aspx


A network of trained Harassment Advisors is available for staff and students. The list of advisors is available from The Equal Opportunities Office. There is also a policy regarding Consensual Relations between staff and students. 12.7 Health and Safety

Your placement induction should include information about health and safety issues.

If you have any Health and Safety concerns during your placement you should report these to your mentor and where appropriate your personal tutor. If, for any reason you are unable to do so then please contact your programme lead or programme administration.

12.7.1 Accident Forms

It is a requirement under the Health and Safety at Work Act that all accidents should be properly recorded. Therefore anyone who has an accident should complete an accident form.

If an accident occurs on University premises or its environs, the accident form may be obtained from Programme Administration.

If an accident occurs on Trust premises or any other placement premises, the accident form will normally be provided by staff at that location and they will retain the completed form. However, it is important that the Faculty is aware of the accident, so that any particular circumstances or injuries can be taken into account when you return to the Faculty premises. It is in your own interests that all accidents are retained on your University file so that full information is available if there are long term consequences of injury which were not immediately apparent at the time of the accident.

If an accident does arise away from the Faculty premises, you should either ask for a copy of the completed accident form to be forwarded to the Faculty (Professional Services) or alternatively, should, if in doubt, ask the Faculty for an accident form for completion.

If you are treated in any way while on Trust premises, the Trust Occupational Health or Accident and Emergency Department will treat you in the first instance. At a later date you will be seen by the Faculty’s Occupational Health facility at Exeter.

12.8 Incidents in the Clinical Area

You may be involved in an incident while in clinical practice either as an observer or a participant.

You must: • comply with the internal reporting procedures. • report the incident to your mentor • report the incident to your personal tutor, programme leader or in their absence

the programme administration.

You could be involved as a witness and be asked to write a statement of events.

This is not something to be worried about but you should seek the advice of your personal tutor/programme leader. He/she will advise you on how to manage such


situations and accompany you to any necessary meetings which are arranged as a result of the incident.

Please do not write any statement before seeking support from someone at the University, even if this is only through a telephone call.

You may witness an incident while in clinical practice as an observer or a participant. Potentially this may involve you as a witness and you may be asked to write a statement of events. This is not something to be worried about but you should seek the advice of your personal tutor. He/she will advise you on how to manage such situations and accompany you to any necessary meetings which are arranged as a result of the incident. 12.9 Guidelines for dealing with unsafe practice/inappropriate professional Behaviour The NMC (2004) states “As a registered nurse or midwife, you must protect and support the health of individual patients and clients”. Teachers of nursing and midwifery are covered by NMC guidance on accountable practice. Therefore, where practice, which apparently compromises the safety of others, is reported verbally, in writing or within assignments, they are bound to act in a manner that protects those at risk. All cases of practice that compromise the safety of others revealed through reporting, reflection or in writing will be acted upon:

Practice that compromises the safety of others will be discussed in a non-disciplinary/ supportive way with the appropriate line manager.

In order to encourage student responsibility they may, if they wish, be involved in discussions with the appropriate party.

The appropriate party shall be deemed to be the designated Senior Manager in the practice placement.

It is the responsibility of the placement provider to investigate and act upon the information received from the teacher to ensure the maintenance of quality care and safe practice for patients, clients and others; to keep appropriate records and to report action taken to the teacher and student concerned.

12.10 Fitness to Practise Regulations The Faculty of Health and Human Sciences monitors the progress of all students registered on the portfolio of pre-registration programmes particularly in respect of any issues raised related to good health and good character. The Faculty has therefore implemented the Fitness to Practise procedure to assist in this monitoring process. The Faculty Fitness to Practise regulations should be read in conjunction with the University Disciplinary Code of Conduct for Students and in most cases will be used in place of the University Code when concerns arise relating to fitness to practise issues. The policy can be found using the link below:



Plymouth Online Practice Placement Information (POPPI) http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/placements/Poppi Many students chose to download essential NMC documents to their own tablet or device. We would recommend that you download the documents below:

The code: Standards of conduct, performance and ethics for nurses and midwives http://www.nmc-uk.org/Publications/Standards/The-code/Introduction/

Guidance on Professional conduct for Nursing and Midwifery students http://www.nmc-uk.org/Publications/Guidance/

Guidance for students http://www.nmc.org.uk/

12.11 Occupational Health Service to the Faculty of Health and Human Sciences The Faculty of Health and Human Sciences, contracts with Exeter Occupational Health Service (EXOHS), for the provision of Occupational Health Services for all Health and Human Science students. EXOHS’ role is to provide professional, impartial and confidential advice to both the Faculty and students. Please see The occupational health policy at Appendix 4. Their key functions include:

pre-employment screening

screening/immunisations

referral for work-related issues, advice may include suggesting adjustments that might need to be considered to accommodate any identified health problems

advice following an inoculation injury EXOHS or the Faculty of Health and Human Sciences will contact you in writing or by email to advise you of your Occupational Health appointments. If you are unable to attend the scheduled appointment, you are expected to contact EXOHS immediately to arrange an alternative date. This must be done at least three days prior to the appointment date. Telephone 01392 415800 Email [email protected] In the event that you fail to attend your scheduled appointment, EXOHS will inform the Faculty Compliance Team and you will automatically be charged the relevant missed appointment fee and notified of this charge in writing. It is then your responsibility to provide evidence of any extenuating circumstances for not attending and this will be reviewed on an individual case basis. A refund may be issued if it is felt the circumstances are justified. The amount you will be charged depends on the type of appointment that you miss. Below you will find a list of appointment types and charges:


http://www.nmc-uk.org/Publications/Standards/The-code/Introduction/

http://www.nmc-uk.org/Publications/Guidance/

http://www.nmc.org.uk/



Vaccinations/Bloods Appointments £25.81

Consultation with Occupational Health Nurse £70.20

Review appointment with Occupational Health Nurse £43.35

Consultation with Occupational Health Consultant £144.51

Review appointment with Occupational Health Consultant £82.58

Latex Skin Prick test £123.87 These fees will be recorded as an outstanding debt against your student record. This could result in you not being able to graduate until the debt has been cleared. Occupational Health clearance/compliance is a condition of your chosen programme. Please read carefully the information contained in Appendix 2 of this handbook relating to Occupation Health. 12.12 Policy for Health Care Students on Norovirus (Norwalk) Professional Issues 1) There is an expectation that health care students, by the very nature of their chosen

career, are likely at some time to be exposed to hazardous situations.

2) Caring for patients with Norovirus is one of these situations and it is recognised that there is a potential for contamination and cross-infection.

3) Students cannot therefore avoid caring for patients with Norovirus illness (NMC May

’08 / HPC July ’08 ) in order to limit the risk of acquiring the disease.

4) Health Care Trusts have thus developed policies to try to limit the spread to staff and other patients by asking those possibly infected not to come into the hospital (health care setting). (SDHCFT 2008)

5) Staff and students should thus follow the advice about preventing the spread of

Norovirus at all times, in work and at home. 6) This is in addition to the use of universal infection control precautions that have been

taught (e.g. hand washing techniques and the wearing of appropriate protective clothing)

7) Students will thus need to adhere to their local health care provider policy and those of

the University. 8) However if they do acquire the illness they should remaining away from clinical areas

for 48 hours after symptoms resolve. (Recording any absence on their university time sheets if required)

Introduction; the disease 1) Norovirus or small round structured viruses (SRSV) cause the symptoms which have

been called winter vomiting disease, however this is a misnomer as it can occur at any time in the year. http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Norovirus/Pages/Introduction.aspx

2) Symptoms are apparent 24-48 hours after infection (although this can be as short as

12 hours) and usually commence with nausea or bloating

http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Norovirus/Pages/Introduction.aspx


3) The symptoms usually progress to projectile vomiting and watery diarrhoea, there may be mild fever, headache, stomach cramp & aching limbs. These usually last for 24-48 hours but the diarrhoea in particular may go on for up to 60 hours.

4) Exposure to the disease does not routinely provide immunity as the virus changes and

the sufferer may be infectious for up to 48 hours after symptoms have resolved. 5) The advice on treatment is that antibiotics are of no value, but some anti-diarrhoeal

medicines may help as will paracetamol for fever or aching limbs.

6) The important main issue is to prevent dehydration, (particularly in the young or frail) by drinking plenty of fluids and a light diet may be tolerated. Symptoms will resolve.

7) Advice on preventing the spread of the Norovirus is as follows

a. Good frequent and thorough hand hygiene b. Flush away in the toilet / sluice vomit or faecal material c. Disinfection of any potentially contaminated areas (e.g. around bathroom, patient

area or kitchen) d. Avoid preparing food whilst ill or in the 48 hours following symptom resolution e. Wash contaminated or potentially contaminated clothing in hot soapy water f. Avoid eating raw or unwashed food

Individual Special requirements 1) If as a healthcare profession student you have special occupational health

requirements, that may put you at risk of a more severe illness, these must be discussed with your Personal Tutor

2) The Personal Tutor will then seek advice from the University’s Occupational Health provider on an individual basis via the PQDD.

Conclusion 1) Health care students must expect to care for patients with Norovirus disease and follow

the local policies and procedures.

2) They must also expect to attend practice, as part of their programme, when an outbreak has been identified in that practice area.

References

HPC 2008 Standards of Conduct, Performance and Ethics July 08 NMC 2008 Code of Conduct May ’08 downloaded Jan’09 South Devon Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust Patient Information: the facts about Norovirus Dec ‘08

http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Norovirus/Pages/Introduction.aspx Bibliography Gould D 2008 Management and prevention of norovirus outbreaks in hospital Nursing Standard Dec 3-9, 23 (13) 51-6 quiz 58, 6

http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Norovirus/Pages/Introduction.aspx


Further policies and procedures can be found on the POPPI website: Plymouth Online Practice Placement Information (POPPI) http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/placements/Poppi 12.13 Social Networking Sites Used properly, social networking sites such as Facebook are a great way to find old friends, join interest groups and share information. However, nurses and midwives should remember that anything posted on a social networking site is in the public domain. What may be considered to be letting off steam about a situation at work can potentially be read by someone who may take offence at the content of a posting. Nurses and midwives could be putting their registration at risk if posting inappropriate comments about colleagues or patients or posting any material that could be considered explicit. There have been a number of complaints received by the Faculty from Trusts about this issue and remarks made about wards, placements, mentors and patients on Facebook by students. The Faculty takes this issue extremely seriously; the consequence has resulted in several students undergoing fitness to practise processes this year in response to this. The three key areas are

Treat people as individuals and respect their dignity-whether it’s a colleague or a patients, never post a comment that could cause serious offence to that individual or anyone else

Respect people right to confidentiality- this applies to wards, placement areas, patients and colleagues

Uphold the reputation of your profession at all times The Nursing and Midwifery Council offer five tips for staying fit to practice online 1. Do learn how to adjust your security or privacy settings 2. Do treat online conversations as if you were talking to people in a public space where

you can be seen and over heard 3. Don’t post or tweet under the influence of alcohol 4. Don’t reveal personal information about yourself that could put you at risk 5. Don’t post explicit material or break the law. Please see the NMC website www.nmc-uk.org for further information.

13. STUDENT LIAISON, EVALUATION AND REPRESENTATION 13.1 Student Representatives



http://www.nmc-uk.org/


Student representatives will be nominated and appointed at the beginning of the first year of the programme and will remain as student representative for the duration of the programme. The primary role of student representatives is to provide the University with a balanced view of the perceptions of the student body of the quality and standards of the education and services being provided. They may also participate in the review and development of programmes and of institutional policies and contribute to decision-making processes at the department, school, faculty or institutional levels. 13.2 Students role on Programme Committees The programme has a committee on which students from each year are represented. The primary role of student representatives is to provide the University with a balanced view of the perceptions of the student body of the quality and standards of the education and services being provided. At the programme level, they facilitate a dialogue between the members of staff who deliver the programme and the students whose learning is determined by the programme. Student representatives also attend the School of Nursing and Midwifery Teaching and Learning Committee. 13.3 School Student representative In addition there is an elected School of Nursing and Midwifery student representative who attends Faculty and University meetings on behalf of the students in the school. 13.4 Student Masterclasses Student masterclasses are organised by the School Alumni. The underlying ethos of the Master class project is to help students be proactive in their own education and achieve nursing excellence. It promotes enterprise by empowering students to make use of the resources around them in health care to enhance the learning experience as an undergraduate student at Plymouth University. The Masterclass project aims to augment the undergraduate BSc (Hons) Nursing and BSc (Hons) Midwifery programmes by promoting Inter-Professional Learning (IPL) with other undergraduate students, and organise extracurricular and voluntary teaching sessions offered throughout the placement sites covered by Plymouth University. 13.5 HEAR Report (Higher Education Achievement Report (HEAR) The HEAR includes and extends the existing record of academic achievement: the academic transcript, and the European Diploma Supplement. This information follows the same documentation you would expect for students graduating from any university in Europe. It also features additional achievements relating to co-curricular activities which are formally recognised by the University, for example, the Plymouth Award, being a Student Ambassador or joining up to the Peer Assisted Learning Scheme (PALS). A full list of what is included on your HEAR is available on the FAQs website. You can also view an example of a mock HEAR report. 13.6 Plymouth Compass While you’re at Plymouth, we hope you’ll gain more than just your degree.

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/your-studies/plymouth-award

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/your-studies/academic-services/careers-and-employability/student-jobs/student-ambassadors

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/services/learning-gateway/learning-development/pals

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/your-studies/essential-information/higher-education-achievement-report/faqs

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/uploads/production/document/path/5/5727/Mock_PU_HEAR.pdf


The Plymouth University Compass helps you to navigate your way through your whole university experience, in both your taught curriculum and your extra-curricular activities. What you learn at university prepares you for more than a career, so the Compass identifies key attributes in four broad areas of your life - academic, civic, professional, and personal. During your time here, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to practice and develop these attributes, helping you gain experiences, improve skills, and build networks for your life beyond graduation. 13.7 Student Feedback and Evaluation Student feedback and evaluation, both of individual modules and of the whole programme is an integral and important part of the learning and teaching process. You will be invited to evaluate the delivery and content of each module, utilising a standard Module Evaluation either on line or in paper form. In addition, some form of qualitative evaluation will normally be undertaken. In addition you will be asked to provide an evaluation of your practice experience. This evaluation is undertaken on line through Placements on the Web. You will also be invited to provide feedback on the wider aspects of the University environment, introduction to the programme, the learning environment, quality of the programme and services/ facilities available to you. This information will be gained via the annual Student Perception Questionnaire (SPQ) – more details can be found at the following web address: Website: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/student-voice 13.7.1 Student Perception Questionnaire (SPQ) What is it for? The purpose is:

to give YOU the chance to tell US what you feel about YOUR experience of teaching and learning at Plymouth University

to allow US to identify those issues that are perceived by YOU as affecting YOUR education, either positively or negatively

to provide US with a University-wide perspective and to enable US to prioritise our ACTION to improve the quality of YOUR educational experience at Plymouth University

13.7.2 National Student Survey (NSS) The NSS is a survey of mostly final year undergraduates in England, Northern Ireland, Wales and the majority of institutions in Scotland. Further Education colleges with directly funded higher education students (i.e. students in their final year of a course leading to undergraduate qualifications or credits) in England and Wales will also participate. The survey is part of the revised system of quality assurance for higher education, which replaces subject review by the QAA, and is designed to run alongside the QAA institutional audit to generate more detailed public information about teaching quality. The NSS is commissioned by the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE). Ipsos MORI, an independent research company, administers the survey.

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/student-voice

http://www.hefce.ac.uk/

http://www.ipsos-mori.com/

http://www.ipsos-mori.com/


The NSS results are made available to participating institutions on the NSS Results Website. From September 2012, the results will be publicly available in the following ways: 1. Published 'in context' on the web-sites of universities and colleges via a KIS 'widget'.

This is a small graphic with three pieces of information from the KIS, specifically about the course the user is viewing.

2. Published on a new official web-site that enables users to search and compare both KIS and Unistats data (the Unistats site will close from September 2012, when this new official web-site will be launched).

3. On the redeveloped UCAS course search tool (Course Finder), which will incorporate

the KIS data so users can view the data at the same time as viewing the courses they are interested in applying to.

http://www.ipsos-mori.com/nss/results

http://www.ipsos-mori.com/nss/results


14. APPENDICES

1 Advice for Lecturers, Student Nurses and Midwives regarding pregnancy

61

2 Occupational Health Guidance and requirements

63

3 Core Curriculum in Pharmacology for Pre-Registration Nursing

72

4 Information for students attending practice placements

74

5 Placement Development Teams (PDT)

76

6 Guidelines for Assessment in Practice

77

7 Assessment Guidelines and Criteria

91


APPENDIX 1 ADVICE FOR LECTURERS, STUDENT NURSES AND MIDWIVES REGARDING PREGNANCY Introduction Pregnancy is a normal physiological process and is to be regarded as part of everyday life. Many women work while they are pregnant and many return to work whilst they are breast feeding. The health and safety implications of pregnancy can be adequately addressed by normal health and safety management procedures under most circumstances. However, some hazards may affect the health and safety of new and expectant mothers and their children, and some are a source of concern to pregnant women. The guidelines below cover areas that are commonly raised for pregnant women working in the Health Service. Each Trust will have its own policy to cover pregnant workers and restrictions may vary from Trust to Trust depending on local risk assessments. Refresher student nurses are advised to follow local procedures and policies and the Exeter Occupational Health and Safety service will offer advice in areas of difficulty. Lifting and Handling of Patients Pregnant workers are especially at risk from manual handling injuries as hormonal changes can affect ligaments. Most Trusts have in place either no lifting or minimal lifting policies and these must be adhered to by pregnant workers. It is particularly important that pregnant students’ use lifting aids wherever possible and if no such aids are available it is wise to remove them from duties which require the lifting of patients. Standing and Fatigue Excessive standing has been associated with a preterm delivery and pregnant students should be encouraged to take advantage of suitable seating whenever possible. Night Duty Night work is not contraindicated in pregnancy but some pregnant students may experience excessive fatigue associated with disturbed sleep which might require them to be removed from night shifts. Violence Unfortunately, violence is a risk to which pregnant workers may be exposed and it may be necessary to remove them from placements in high risk areas during their pregnancy, e.g. A&E or some mental health facilities. Cytotoxic Drugs Pregnant healthcare workers should not be involved in making up cytotoxic drugs. Most Trusts also restrict pregnant staff from the administration of these drugs and may remove them from work in oncology clinics or wards where there would be a direct involvement in administration. You should follow local policies. Radiation There are normally no specific precautions that need to be taken over and above those already in existence in Trusts to protect staff from radiation hazards. Lead aprons can be heavy, hot and uncomfortable when pregnant and it may be wise to avoid participating in screening activities.


Anaesthetic Gases There is some evidence of foetal developmental effects from exposure to anaesthetic gases. The Occupational Exposure Standards (OES’s) set by the Health and Safety Executive have been based on this data and therefore students can work in areas where the OES’s are not exceeded. If the OES is exceeded the pregnant worker should be moved from the area. Areas where this may occur include delivery rooms in maternity and theatres without scavenging. Infections Pregnant mothers should not normally care for patients suffering from rubella or varicella zoster. Students should have had their immunity to these infections checked at commencement of training and been immunised against rubella if indicated. If there is any doubt about suitability to care for patients suffering from any infectious disease the advice of the Control of Infection team or the Occupational Health Service should be sought. In general, universal precautions will protect pregnant and non-pregnant workers alike. Post Delivery You are required to take compulsory maternity leave for the first two weeks following childbirth. At what time you return to work after compulsory maternity leave is for you to decide in discussion with your Programme Lead. The University is required to provide somewhere for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers to rest and is required to conduct a risk assessment for all employees and students.

More information about maternity leave can be found in: New and expectant mothers who work, ‘A guide for Health Professionals’ available at http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg373.pdf http://www.hse.gov.uk/mothers/index.htm Alternatively please call 0870 1502500 for your copy.

http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg373.pdf

http://www.hse.gov.uk/mothers/index.htm


APPENDIX 2

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH

Contents

1. What is Occupational Health? ................................................................................. 68 2. Who is the Faculty of Health and Human Science Occupational Health ............. 69 provider? ....................................................................................................................... 3. Occupational Health Service - Location and Contact Details ............................... 69

3.1 Hours of opening .................................................................................................... 70

4. What services do Occupational Health offer? ....................................................... 70 4.1 Pre-course Screening: ........................................................................................... 70

4.1.1 Non-Disclosure ................................................................................................ 70 4.2 Drugs & Alcohol Screening ................................................................................... 70

4.3 Immunisations ........................................................................................................ 70 4.3.1 Exposure Prone Procedures .............................................................................. 71 4.3.2 New starters ..................................................................................................... 71

4.3.3 Existing Students ............................................................................................ 71 4.3.4 Failure to receive immunisations ................................................................... 71

4.3.5 Unable to have live vaccines/Non responders .............................................. 71 4.3.6 Immunisations with your GP .......................................................................... 71 4.3.7 Needle Phobia .................................................................................................. 72

4.4 A Referral Service/Appointments ........................... Error! Bookmark not defined. 4.4.1 Referral appointments ....................................... Error! Bookmark not defined. 4.4.2 Cancelling/non-attendance of appointments .. Error! Bookmark not defined. 4.4.3 Charges for Missed Appointments .................. Error! Bookmark not defined. 4.4.4 Consent to share information ............................... Error! Bookmark not defined. 4.4.5 Additional medical information ........................ Error! Bookmark not defined. 4.4.6 Recommendations for adjustments ................. Error! Bookmark not defined.

5. Fitness for work ........................................................................................................ 72

The conditions that may affect your ability to provide care include: ................................... 72 6. Inoculation Injury ...................................................................................................... 73 NB. Please note the following guidance from the NMC ..................................................... 73

7. Arrangements for learners returning to the programme after 6 months interruption ....................................................................................................................... 74

8. Domestic Violence .................................................................................................... 74 9. Faculty of Health and Human Sciences Screening Standards Table 2016 .......... 75

1. What is Occupational Health? Occupational health is concerned with the effect of Health on Work, and the effect of Work on Health. There are various pieces of legislation that affect health and safety at work. These include:

Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, which protects employees by requiring the employer to “safeguard as far as is reasonably practicable, their health, safety and welfare”.


Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992, amended 2002, require employers to avoid or reduce risk involved in manual handling operations. Thus students should not lift patients or heavy loads until suitable training has been given.

Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 Incorporates Pregnancy Risk Assessment.

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) which requires workplace assessments with subsequent exposure control. Under this piece of legislation YOU need to know about the nature of substances you work with and the risks created by those substances.

Students who have applied to study certain programmes with the Faculty of Health and Human Sciences are required to obtain Occupational Health clearance prior to commencement of their studies. If Occupational Health clearance is a condition of entry on to your chosen programme and you have not had clearance confirmed by the 1st October following the start of your course, you may be required to step off the programme pending further investigation. Other students may be required to obtain Occupational Health clearance part way through their programme e.g. prior to starting placement or wish to access Occupational Health Services if they experience health problems during their course. Details of Occupational Health requirements can be found in the screening standards table later in this document. 2. Who is the Faculty of Health and Human Science Occupational Health provider?

The Faculty of Health and Human Sciences, contracts with Exeter Occupational Health Service (EXOHS), for the provision of Occupational Health services. EXOHS’ role is to provide professional, impartial and confidential advice to both the Faculty and the students, as required, on fitness to practice. Key functions include:

pre-course screening

screening/immunisations

referral for work-related issues, advice may include suggesting adjustments that might need to be considered to accommodate any identified health problems

Advice following an inoculation injury. For an inoculation injury, advice should be sought immediately at the time of injury from the host Occupational Health Service who will liaise with EXOHS regarding documentation.

3. Occupational Health Service - Location and Contact Details The service is based at the Royal Devon and Exeter Foundation NHS Trust in Exeter, but the OH team provides the opportunity to be seen at Plymouth and Truro. You are reminded of the importance of keeping EXOHS informed of any change of circumstances, e.g. change of name or address. If an Occupational Health appointment is made whilst you are on placement allocation, priority must be given to attending the Occupational Health appointment. In most cases the time spent out of the placement area will be a maximum of 4 hours, and in these instances you will not be required to make up this time.


Travel to EXOHS can be claimed in accordance with the standard student travel policy. 3.1 Hours of opening Exeter Occupational Health Service is open Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5.00pm Telephone number: 01392 405800. Email: [email protected] 4. What services do Occupational Health offer? EXOHS provide the following services: 4.1 Pre-course Screening: If Occupational Health Clearance is a condition of entry onto your chosen programme of study, you will be required to complete a Health Questionnaire as part of the application process. You may be required to participate in a telephone interview or attend an appointment with an Occupational Health Nurse or Doctor to establish whether you are fit to commence the programme and whether any adjustments need to be recommended to the Faculty to assist you with your studies. Please note that if adjustments are advised, then the operational decision on implementing these recommendations ultimately rests with the University. Consideration will be given to the provisions of the Equality Act 2010 and decisions will be based on a balance of both the person’s needs and the operational capabilities. The ability to accommodate adjustments is considered by the Professional Issues Committee. This Committee comprises of a panel of Academic staff from each programme within the Faculty and is co-chaired by the Associate Head of the School of Nursing and Midwifery and the Deputy Head of School for the School of Health Professions. The Committee may seek advice from Professional Bodies, Human Resources and Professional Advisors to assist with their decisions. All cases are considered anonymously. Should you fail to attend an Occupational Health appointment your place on the programme may be compromised. 4.1.1 Non-Disclosure Non-Disclosure of any medical conditions that may affect your place on the programme or affect the clinical placements we are able to obtain for you, and thus your ability to complete a programme of study, could result in possible withdrawal from the programme. 4.2 Drugs & Alcohol Screening To help determine your fitness to train, alcohol and or drugs testing may be carried out by Occupational Health as part of your Pre-Course Screening or randomly at the request of the Faculty at any point on your programme. 4.3 Immunisations As a Health or Social Care student, you are expected to comply with Department of Health guidelines with regard to the immunisations required to protect you and your patients/service users during the course of your work. In order to go on placement you



may need to have a complete immunisation record. Students should therefore be aware that it is a compulsory requirement for health and social care students to have complied with this policy (see attached Screening Standards schedule). For the majority of programmes screening/immunisation against Hepatitis B, Mumps, Measles, Rubella and Tuberculosis is required and your immunity status to Varicella Zoster, (Chicken Pox) will also be established by a blood test if there is no history of disease.

4.3.1 Exposure Prone Procedures

Students undertaking exposure prone procedures, i.e. midwives, paramedics and nurses working in theatres), will require a blood test to confirm their Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV status. These students will need to provide photographic ID. 4.3.2 New starters This process will normally begin during the induction week when the EXOHS nurses are on site. The nurses regularly visit the various sites, and it is very important to keep appointments. Future appointments will be emailed to your student email account either from EXOHS or the programme admin team. It is essential that you check this account regularly. If you are unable to attend an appointment, please inform EXOHS within 48 hours’ notice by ringing 01392 405800. Failure to notify EXOHS will result in you being charged for the missed appointment. (See charges below) 4.3.3 Existing Students Final year students completing a placement in theatre or day surgery will require a blood test to confirm their Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV status in the event they are required to undertake exposure prone procedures. An appointment letter will be sent prior to commencement of the placement and photographic ID will be required. 4.3.4 Failure to receive immunisations Practice placements will be affected if students fail to receive the necessary Occupational Health screening/immunisations (see attached Screening Standards schedule). 4.3.5 Unable to have live vaccines/Non responders If you are unable to receive vaccinations for health reasons or you are a non-responder then your case will need to be reviewed to assess whether adjustments can be made to allow you to continue on the programme. 4.3.6 Immunisations with your GP If you choose to have your immunisations/blood tests carried out by your GP you must advise EXOHS immediately to allow your name to be removed from their clinic


appointment list. If satisfactory documentary evidence is not provided to EXOHS within one month, further appointments will be allocated to you. If you are unable to attend these appointments, please give 48 hours’ notice by ringing 01392 405800. Failure to notify EXOHS will result in you being charged £30.00 for the missed appointment. Please be aware that some GP’s will charge for immunisations/blood tests and that these fees are not refundable by the University. 4.3.7 Needle Phobia If you are needle phobic please make either EXOHS or the Compliance Team (email [email protected]) aware, they can assess this on an individual basis and put appropriate measures in place. With prior knowledge the appointment may be lengthened or rescheduled to an improved setting. Please make sure you read and understand the requirements of vaccination regarding your programme and are aware that you may require vaccinations prior to attending for your screening. This will ensure that someone is aware if you have an anxiety associated with this. 5. Fitness for work As well as complying with the statutory guidance and local policies, you should be aware that it is YOUR responsibility to care for yourself. You will have completed a health questionnaire prior to commencing the programme. If you develop any significant health problems during your programme, which may have an impact on your ability to work in clinical areas, you should, in the first instance, seek advice from your personal tutor. EXOHS do not have the facility to receive self-referrals.

The conditions that may affect your ability to provide care include:

Resolving or recurrent back pain

Other musculo-skeletal problems which may interfere with your ability to transfer and handle clients

Skin problems, especially if affecting hands or forearms, e.g. eczema or psoriasis. It is therefore imperative that you protect and care for your skin by using emollients regularly. Nails should be kept short, clean, and not bitten

Epilepsy or any condition causing a loss or alteration of consciousness

Insulin dependent diabetes

Diseases/medication resulting in a compromised immune system, e.g. HIV and some malignancies

Diseases which might represent a risk of infection to clients e.g. Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV

Mental health problems, including stress. Be aware of the pressures you are under as a student and familiarise yourself with local support mechanisms. Plymouth University Student Counselling Service offers a support service for students

Infection Control Standard Precautions are outlined in the Hospital Infection Control section on the Intranet. Familiarise yourself with them and ensure the continuity of safe practice as a health care professional. If you are aware of being in contact with, or possibly suffering symptoms of an infectious disease, you should



report it immediately to the relevant person e.g. tutor or placement supervisor. Open wounds should always be covered with waterproof dressing/plaster in the working environment

Diet/Exercise: are important factors in your ongoing well-being. You are advised to organise your life to ensure regular exercise and a good, balanced diet

Smoking: is a known hazard to health and is also prohibited in the working environment. Support from Devon NHS Stop Smoking Service available to assist with quitting Telephone: 01884 836 024 or email: [email protected]

N.B. All NHS Trust premises are non-smoking environments

Pregnancy: known hazards exist in every workplace and pregnant students must inform their tutor and/or ward/department manager when the pregnancy has been confirmed so that the risks in their current working environment can be assessed. Pregnant healthcare students should not normally care for patients suffering from rubella or varicella zoster (Chicken Pox). You will have your varicella status checked at commencement of training and been immunised with two doses of the Mumps, Measles and Rubella vaccine if indicated.

Influenza: you are expected to comply with Department of Health guidelines with regard to the immunisations required to protect you, and your patients/service users, during the course of your work. It is your responsibility to obtain your annual seasonal flu vaccination. You may be able to obtain this immunisation at your placement setting as part of their staff immunisation programme. Otherwise you are expected to make arrangements through your GP or a local pharmacy. Some GP’s will provide the immunisation free of charge to Health and Social Care workers in line with Department of Health guidance. Please be aware however that some GP’s and most Pharmacies will charge for immunisations and that this fee is not refundable by the University.

6. Inoculation Injury It is important that these injuries are dealt with as a matter of priority, and advice should be sought immediately at the time of injury from the host Occupational Health Service who will liaise with EXOHS regarding documentation. It is in your interest to ensure that you report these injuries to the person supervising your practice and follow the correct local procedure. If you are unable to access Occupational Health Services locally then please contact EXOHS who will offer advice or arrange an urgent appointment for you.

Ideally avoid! By covering any cuts on your hands/forearms, being familiar with the proposed procedure and having a sharps bin to hand, to ensure safe disposal.

Seek advice from your local Occupational Health Department and inform your Academic co-ordinator – ideally have the telephone number with you.

If working in Exeter, ring the Inoculation Injuries Hotline on 01392 405800 and if the office is closed please leave a message with your name, date of birth and contact number and a nurse will contact you when the office re-opens.

Ensure that a risk assessment is carried out, to establish the need for further treatment or follow up bloods.

EXOHS is available for advice/guidance and if required a follow up referral can be made to them via your Personal Tutor or Programme Lead.

NB. Please note the following guidance from the NMC

A nurse, midwife or health visitor, who believes that she or he may have been exposed to an infection such as HIV, Hepatitis B or Hepatitis C, in whatever circumstances, should


seek specialist medical advice and diagnostic testing, if applicable. She or he must adhere to the specialist medical advice received. Each practitioner must consider very carefully their personal accountability as defined in the Council’s Code of Professional Conduct and remember that she or he has an overriding ethical duty of care to patients. 7. Arrangements for learners returning to the programme after 6 months

interruption All students who are on programmes leading to professional qualification, that do not undertake normal programme activities for a period of 6 months or more following deferral, interruption or special leave/study arrangements (despite their rationale for non-attendance) must undergo a renewed enhanced DBS check and a further Occupational Health assessment. In addition, should any concerns regarding a learner arise at any point during a programme of study, the programme lead may initiate a referral with EXOHS through the normal channels (Faculty’s Compliance Office). 8. Domestic Violence Domestic violence and abuse can be experienced by women and men whatever their race, age, class, colour, ability, religion or sexuality. The violence can begin at any stage of a relationship and may continue after the relationship has ended. Devon and Cornwall Police Non-emergency number is 101 (in an emergency, always dial 999). For confidential and general advice for those who do not want the Police involved, contact: Plymouth Domestic Abuse Service, Telephone 01752 252033 8 Queen Anne’s Terrace North Hill Plymouth http://www.plymouth.gov.uk/homepage/communityandliving/saferplymouth/spcommunitysafety/domesticabuse/spdomesticviolencesupport.htm Plymouth Domestic Abuse Service is an organisation completely separate from the police. They have independent domestic violence advocates who can give confidential advice and guidance from housing and personal safety, to solicitors. Devon and Cornwall Police have further information and advice on the following web page. https://www.devon-cornwall.police.uk/prevention-and-advice/crimes-against-the-individual/domestic-abuse/

http://www.plymouth.gov.uk/homepage/communityandliving/saferplymouth/spcommunitysafety/domesticabuse/spdomesticviolencesupport.htm

http://www.plymouth.gov.uk/homepage/communityandliving/saferplymouth/spcommunitysafety/domesticabuse/spdomesticviolencesupport.htm

https://www.devon-cornwall.police.uk/prevention-and-advice/crimes-against-the-individual/domestic-abuse/

https://www.devon-cornwall.police.uk/prevention-and-advice/crimes-against-the-individual/domestic-abuse/


9. Faculty of Health and Human Sciences Screening Standards Table 2016

Pre-course Screening Histories Serology Vaccinations

Course Description

Paper Scree

n

Health Interview

Doctors Medical

Polio

Tetanus

Hep B

MMR

TB/BCG

Scar Check

Chicken

Pox

Hep B

MMR

Quantiferon

Chicken Pox

EPPs

Hep B

MMR

BCG/ Mantou

x

Chicken Pox

Adult Nursing – BSc ✓

only if necessary

only if necessary

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ x only if necessary

only if necessary

x ✓ ✓ ✓ only if necessary

Child Nursing – BSc ✓

only if necessary

only if necessary


only if necessary


Dietetics – BSc ✓

only if necessary

only if necessary


only if necessary


Mental Health – BSc ✓

only if necessary

only if necessary


only if necessary


Midwifery – BSc ✓ ✓

only if necessary


only if necessary

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ only if necessary

Occupational Therapy - BSc

✓ only if necessary

only if necessary


only if necessary


Occupational Therapy - MSc


only if necessary


only if necessary


Optometry – BSc ✓

only if necessary

only if necessary


only if necessary


Paramedic Practitioner – BSc

✓ ✓

only if necessary


only if necessary


Physiotherapy – BSc ✓

only if necessary

only if necessary


only if necessary


Podiatry – BSc ✓

only if necessary

only if necessary


only if necessary


Psychology Students + ✓

only if necessary

only if necessary


only if necessary


Social Work – BA ✓

only if necessary

only if necessary

Vaccinations and Screening for Social Work Students is undertaken on an individual basis for students undertaking placements where it is requested they provide evidence of their status.

Social Work – MA ✓

only if necessar

only if necessar

Vaccinations and Screening for Social Work Students is undertaken on an individual basis for students undertaking placements where it is requested they provide evidence of their status.


y y Urgent and Emergency Care - BSc

✓ ✓

only if necessary


only if necessary


NHS Research Passports


only if necessary


only if necessary


Healthcare Science (Blood Science)


only if necessary


only if necessary


Healthcare Science (Cellular Science)


only if necessary


only if necessary


Healthcare Science (Infection Science)*


only if necessary


only if necessary


Healthcare Science (Cardiac Physiology)


only if necessary


only if necessary


Healthcare Science (Respiratory and Sleep Physiology)


only if necessary


only if necessary


*Students in microbiology laboratories will also need vaccinations for Typhoid, Meningitis (ACWY Vax) and Diphtheria plus others as advised by placement area. +Vaccinations and Screening for Psychology students is undertaken on an individual basis for students undertaking placements where it is requested they provide evidence of their status.


APPENDIX 3 CORE CURRICULUM IN PHARMACOLOGY FOR PREREGISTRATION NURSING COURSES (DIP HE, BN AND BSC) Aims The overall aim of this curriculum is to establish the core pharmacological knowledge and related information that will enable newly-qualified nurses to be safe and effective in their medicines-related practice. Pre-requisites Courses should ensure that students should have adequate understanding of relevant physiology, functional anatomy, path physiological processes and common disorders. Equally it must be recognised that students enter nursing courses with a wide variety of academic attainments and cannot be expected to engage effectively with a pharmacology course that assumes competence in chemistry. Introduction Nurses with first level qualifications have professional responsibilities for administration of medicines (including as directed by pro re nata (prn) prescriptions and group protocols), monitoring safety and effectiveness of treatments, providing advice and explanations for patients and carers, and asepsis when appropriate (UK Central Council for Nursing, Midwifery and Health Visiting: Guidelines for the administration of medicines, October 2000*).CHANGE In order to fulfill these roles they need sound knowledge of the principles of pharmacology and clinical pharmacology. They also need abilities to acquire good understanding of those groups of medicines that they encounter regularly in practice and to access information on less frequently encountered drug groups and topics such as adverse reactions and interactions. Such knowledge and abilities also provide secure foundations on which supplementary courses can be built as nurses’ prescribing roles increase. *Taken over by the NMC (Nursing, Midwifery Council) from April 2002. Core knowledge Principles Routes and techniques for administration of medicines; absorption and distribution Durations of action of medicines; distribution, biotransformation, excretion Mechanisms of drug action and dose-response relationships Adverse reactions and drug interactions, including awareness of potential for interactions with OTC medicines and herbal remedies. Impact of physiological state of patients: e.g. age, pregnancy; and selected significant pathologies such as circulatory, renal and hepatic impairment, Overview of drug discovery, development, evaluation (clinical trials) and post-marketing surveillance Drugs and the law, and basic dose calculations (e.g. dilutions) Concepts of compliance, concordance and adherence relating to medication Drug Groups – for all specialties Analgesic and anti-inflammatory drugs Anticonvulsant agents Antidepressant, anxiolytic and hypnotic drugs


Anti- hypertensive and antithrombotic drugs Antimicrobial drugs, parasiticides antiseptics and disinfectants Anti- ulcer and anti-emetic drugs Diuretics Drugs of addiction and misuse Drugs to treat anaphylaxis and other allergy-based emergencies General anesthetics, pre-anesthetic medication and neuromuscular blocking drugs Hypoglycemic agents Laxatives and antidiarrhoeals Local anesthetics Additional Drug Groups – for nursing specialities Adult - cardiovascular and respiratory system drugs, hormonal contraception, skin treatments and wound management products; principles of cancer chemotherapy; antiparkinsonian drugs and treatments for dementia Child – drugs used in asthma; oral rehydration salts; principles of cancer chemotherapy Learning Disabilities –spasmolytic agents Mental Health – antipsychotics; antiparkinsonian drugs and treatments for dementia; administering medicines against the will of patients detained under ‘Mental Health’ legislation Midwifery – oxytocic’s Core skills and attitudes IT skills and ability to retrieve information on medicines from printed and electronic sources Awareness of types of information available from the British National Formulary and derived formularies Awareness of Drug Information Services Abilities to relate patients’ medicines histories to signs and symptoms being treated or monitored Abilities to communicate effectively with patients, carers and professional colleagues about medications Abilities to interpret and apply prn prescriptions and group protocols to individual patients safely and effectively Motivation to reflect on medication as one aspect of care or therapy and to relate it to the whole for each patient or client British Pharmacological Society April 2002


APPENDIX 4 INFORMATION FOR STUDENT NURSES GOING INTO PRACTICE PLACEMENTS Going out into clinical areas working with patients and staff is an essential element of your course. It allows you to put the theory you've been learning into practice and to get a feel for your future work environment. Placements on the Web (POW) Placements on the Web (POW) is an online placement management system that provides you with online information about the placements to which you have been allocated. In addition a web based ‘one stop shop’ known as POPPI (Plymouth Online Practice Placement Information) has been developed to provide supporting information. For more information visit: http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/faculties/health/poppi Mentors: The manager of the clinical area you are going into will allocate you a mentor. This must be a member of the nursing staff who has been approved to act in this role. They will be responsible for supporting and assessing you and will deal with all matters regarding your learning experience in the clinical area. What to do first: Two weeks before you are due to go on practice placement you should telephone the area and find out who your mentor is going to be. Arrange to go to the clinical area to meet your mentor before the practice placement starts. This will make your first day less daunting and will give you the opportunity to speak to your mentor about what you hope to achieve. It would be very useful for you to have your portfolio with you at this initial meeting. Your mentor will also be able to tell you about the hours you are expected to work and the type of clothing you should wear. If you are required to wear a uniform you should change into it once you are at the practice placement. It is not acceptable to wear uniform outside of the working environment. Trust Induction When commencing any placement it is a requirement that you complete the appropriate Trust induction within the stipulated timeframe required by that Trust. This ensures you are familiar with the policies and procedures within your Trust. Induction may take the form of an on-line package or require personal attendance. On line packages may be available through POW and, where this is the case, you

http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/faculties/health/poppi

http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/faculties/health/poppi


are encouraged to undertake this activity at the earliest opportunity before you start your placement. Confidentiality: Patient/client confidentiality is vitally important at all times. If you are at all unsure about this check with your tutor and mentor. Working Hours: It is expected that you will normally work the same shift patterns as your mentor (refer to the student handbook for guidelines). You will be able to discuss any issues on working patterns with your mentor at the initial meeting. Students have supernumerary status, which means that you can't be counted in the number of staff on duty. However, you are expected to be in practice for 37.5 hours a week and it is in your interest to work a variety of shift patterns in order to experience the full range of activity that occurs in the practice placement area. If this is going to cause any problems then you need to discuss them with your mentor at the initial meeting. Absence: It is your responsibility to inform the appropriate people if you are going to be absent from the practice area for sickness or any other reason you must telephone:

the practice placement area as soon as possible once you know that you are going to be absent (write the number somewhere where it is easy to find)

you will also need to phone your University base to report any absence: Truro 01872 256450 Plymouth 01752 586999/585332/5865335


APPENDIX 5 PLACEMENT DEVELOPMENT TEAMS (PDTS) Placement Development Teams (PDTs) are based in Trust/placement settings to manage placements. In addition to supporting mentor preparation and updates. A list of the personnel involved in PDTs is available on the Poppi website. Library services for students on placement It can be difficult to access information whilst you are on placement so the library has developed some special services for you. You can have books or copies of journal articles sent to you or we can place reservations for you so you can collect books when you come to Plymouth. http://plymouth.libguides.com/c.php?g=48959&p=314824

http://plymouth.libguides.com/c.php?g=48959&p=314824


APPENDIX 6 GUIDELINES ON THE ASSESSMENT OF PRACTICE PROCESS This section outlines the stages in the development, and the implementation and verification of the assessment of practice process for a clinical/practice module. The process is summarised in a flowchart at the beginning of the section. Each stage is then explained in more detail in the supporting text. Flowchart – Summary of Assessment of Practice Process The development of the assessment of practice learning outcomes for a programme/module Stage Lead responsibility

The development of an assessment of practice method aligned to the learning outcomes is agreed

Associate Head of School Placement Learning Module Lead/ Programme Lead Field specific Lead Academic Partners

Production of assessment of practice documentation and guidelines

Programme Lead/ Field specific Lead Academic Partners

Implementing the assessment of practice process Stage Lead responsibility

Preparation of mentors/practice/clinical teachers and students

Associate Head of School Placement Learning Module team Link lecturer Placement Development Teams, Practice Manager, Mentor, Student

Pre-placement liaison between mentor and student

Student Mentor

Identification of learning needs between student and mentor within first two weeks

Student Mentor

Development or Action Plan formulated Student

Mentor

Formative review of progress within first third of placement

Student Mentor


Summative assessment as stipulated by University guidance

Student Mentor / Personal Tutor

Submission and processing of ongoing achievement record

Student Professional Services/

Collation, verification (and allocation of percentage mark for Year 2 and 3 only) of Ongoing Achievement Record

Professional Services Personal Tutor

Review of assessment documentation by module team

Module lead and Module team

Review by external examiner Module teacher,

Site Professional Services External examiner

Subject Assessment Panel

Programme Lead Field Specific lead External Examiner Module Leads Administrator N.B. A representative of the module team must attend

Extenuating circumstances considered Faculty Screening

Award Assessment Board

Award Assessment Board


Publication of results

Results posted to the student and available on Statement of Results

Professional Services

Pass Progress or complete

Refer

Fail

Student Module teacher/ Personal tutor/

See programme specific guidelines re the number of attempts permitted

Pre Registration Nursing Programmes: 3 attempts at theory

2 attempts at practice

Reader Notes


The following text explains each of the stages outlined in the flowchart:- The development of the assessment of practice learning outcomes for a programme/module Stage 1 – The development of an assessment of practice process aligned to the module learning outcomes. Plymouth University assessment policy places the responsibility for designing valid assessment tasks and assessment criteria with the module team. The programme/module leader and team develop the assessment of practice method(s) and documentation that are aligned to the intended learning outcomes and are within the overall assessment of practice strategy of the Faculty of Health and Human Sciences. The assessment of practice development team should include representation from practitioners, students, service users and carers. The external examiner to the module should be consulted early on in the development process and be involved in monitoring the implementation of the assessment strategy. The relevant programme committee, Academic Standards Committee and the appropriate professional body representative must approve the final draft of an assessment of practice method. Stage 2 – Production of assessment of practice guidelines and documentation One of the statements in the Assessment Policy of the University of Plymouth is that: ‘Clear, accurate, consistent and timely information on assessment tasks and procedures will be made available to students, staff and other external assessors or examiners’. The programme/module leader is responsible for providing written guidelines for students, mentors and module team teachers/the Placement Development Teams about the assessment of practice method and its associated documentation. This ensures that there is parity in both the preparation for and implementation of the assessment process. Current guidelines should be accessible via the student portal and the Faculty of Health and Human Sciences web-site. http://www5.plymouth.ac.uk/schools/school-of-nursing-and-midwifery Implementation of the assessment of practice process Stage 3 – Preparation of mentors and students Students Each student should be allocated a named mentor who is responsible for facilitating learning, and for supervising and co-ordinating his/her assessment in the practice setting. A Sign Off mentor is required for final placement students.

http://www5.plymouth.ac.uk/schools/school-of-nursing-and-midwifery





All students should be prepared for the assessment of practice, normally prior to the commencement of the practice placement. This preparation is usually programmed into the programme/ module timetable. The module leader/teachers are responsible for ensuring that the content of the preparation is consistent across all sites. Students on pre-registration programmes are required to attend the mandatory preparation session(s), and to sign that they have received the assessment of practice documentation. In the exceptional circumstance when a student is unable to attend a session it is their responsibility to contact the cohort leader. Mentors The requirements to become a mentor vary between programmes and in different placement areas. There is however core criteria to become a named mentor/Sign Off and these are detailed in Stage 11, Mentors – Criteria for Identification. Mentors should consult the module teacher if they have any queries about their eligibility to mentor a student. Mentors need to be prepared for their role in accordance with professional and programme requirements. They are responsible for familiarising themselves with the assessment strategy before assessing the competence of a student in practice. It is the responsibility of the Faculty of Health and Human Sciences or education provider to provide the appropriate programme preparation for mentors about the assessment of practice process for the module/programme. Details of mentor preparation sessions can be obtained through Placement Development Teams, link lecturer, the module teacher, and module leader to the Preparation for Mentorship Modules on POPPI. Mentors to pre-registration and ‘return to practice’ nursing and midwifery students should be recorded on the live register of mentors maintained by the individual Trusts/Placement providers. Stage 4 – Pre-placement liaison between mentor and student It is recommended that, where possible, a mentor/co-mentor is identified a minimum of two weeks prior to the start of the placement. The student is responsible for making contact with the mentor (ideally two weeks before commencing the practice experience) to discuss placement learning opportunities, learning pathways, module learning outcomes, working arrangements and the assessment of practice. Arrangements for Trust induction should be arranged at this time. A pre-placement visit to the practice area is recommended if this can be arranged. Students undertaking some post-qualification clinical modules may need to make special arrangements for mentorship, and should refer to their module teacher for guidance.

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/your-studies/academic-services/placements-and-workbased-learning/poppi


Stage 5 – Development Plan The students and mentor(s) should normally meet within two weeks of the start of the placement: To draw up a Development Plan based on the student’s learning needs and the requirements of their assessment of practice. The Development Plan should be updated throughout the practice experience. Please refer to the programme handbook for further details as the formats of the Development Plan vary between programmes. To clarify working arrangements and agree the timings for any planned formative reviews of progress and summative assessment. A student on post qualification programmes may need to make special arrangements to meet with their mentor when the student and mentor work in different placement areas. If the student experiences difficulty in spending time with the mentor, this should be discussed in the first instance with the mentor Students undertaking pre-registration programmes should work a minimum of 15 hours per week with their mentor or a designated professional member of the healthcare team. It is recommended that a minimum of one hour per week should be planned ‘protected time’ when the mentor and student are able to spend time together to discuss experiences, review progress, and complete the formative and summative assessment of practice for the module(s). There are additional criteria for Sign Off Mentors to meet to support final placement students (NMC 2008). It is recommended that students on post qualification programmes should have contact with their mentor or a designated co-mentor / professional member of the healthcare team for a minimum of 15 hours per semester. This is to enable a professional judgement to be made about the competence of the student in practice. It is also recommended that there should be planned ‘protected time’ when the mentor and student are able to spend time together to reflect on experiences, review progress and complete the formative and summative assessment of practice for the module. Stage 6 – Formative review of progress The aim of formative assessment is to review the student’s progress, towards successfully achieving the practice learning outcomes for the module and to inform development. Strengths and weaknesses are identified and the development plan is updated accordingly. There are no Plymouth University regulations relating to formative assessment but its use is actively encouraged. For programmes delivered by the Faculty of Health and Human Sciences and academic partners a minimum of one formative review of progress must be carried out during the practice experience and prior to summative assessment.


Formative reviews and assessment can be undertaken at any agreed point(s) during a placement. Concerns about the progress of a student must be discussed with the student and recorded where indicated on the assessment documentation. The mentor or student should seek advice about any continuing issues affecting the progress of the student or the process of the assessment from a member of the Placement Development Team, link lecturer, personal tutor or the module teacher as appropriate. This should be done as soon as possible so that action can be taken prior to the summative assessment. Stage 7 – Summative assessment The aim of summative assessment is to determine whether the student has successfully achieved the practice learning outcomes for the module. Please refer to the specific module/programme information as the method and timing of summative assessment of practice does vary from module to module, for example: Students undertaking a pre-registration programme must have completed 4 weeks (150 hours) of experience prior to summative assessment For all students it is recommended that the summative assessment be undertaken towards the end of the assessment period and following formative review. This is to allow the student to fully demonstrate progress throughout the experience/placement. On rare occasions a student may demonstrate poor standards following the successful achievement of a summative assessment. In such cases, the mentor cannot change the documentation but must give a detailed report in the appropriate section of the summative assessment form. It is the responsibility of the mentor to contact the module teacher. The summative assessment of practice must be completed in time to allow the documentation by the specified date/time. It is the responsibility of the student to ensure that the relevant people have signed all the assessment documentation. It is recommended that additional comments be written to justify the outcome of the assessment and to record student progress. Students are responsible for the fully completed and signed assessment of practice documentation. Failure to do this will result in a referral. All students undertaking programmes delivered by the Faculty of Health and Human Sciences are reminded that any alteration to University documentation, including Ongoing Achievement Records and assessment of practice


documentation, involving forgery/falsification of a mentor’s comments or signature/initialling will be investigated. This investigation could lead to disciplinary action and may lead to a student being unable to achieve professional registration. Processing and verification of the assessment of practice documentation Stage 8 - Processing of summative assessment documents

including Practice Feedback Form The student is responsible for submitting the completed Ongoing Achievement Record to the relevant Student Reception/Faculty Reception or the identified Partnership contact by 16.00 hours on the specified date. The student:

must complete the top section of the Practice Feedback Form marked ‘Student to complete this section’. The lower section is for the module teacher to record comments, feedback and advice about the outcome of the assessment of practice. The form is available from Faculty Student Reception/Student Reception. You may be required to submit additional evidence for some programmes/modules for example, e-portfolio work. Guidance will be provided by the module teacher and in the programme/module handbook.

must obtain confirmation of receipt of summative assessment of practice documentation (normally an e-mail to university account).

Faculty of Health and Human Sciences students must bring their bar-coded University registration card to ensure the documents are correctly identified and logged-in. Faculty Student Reception/Student Reception uses the card to barcode receipt of your work and returns the card to the student. An automatic e-mail is generated to your University e-mail address confirming receipt. Academic partners have their own arrangement for confirming the receipt of coursework. If the student considers there are extenuating circumstances that may have adversely affect submission, s/he must follow the procedure detailed in Stage 15. Please also refer to the Student Handbook for details of the process for the submission of coursework and assessment of practice documents, and extenuating circumstances. Stage 9 – Checking and verification of assessment documentation The Ongoing Achievement Record submitted to the Faculty of Health and Human Sciences are collated by Faculty Student Reception/Student Reception and made available to the module leader/teacher normally within three working days. Academic partners have their own arrangements.



The module teacher or a designated member of the module team checks the Ongoing Achievement Record for the outcome of the assessment, written comments, and accuracy of recording and, for Year 2 and 3 applies the percentage grade according to the marking criteria, and signs the documentation. The module teacher and personal tutor, as appropriate, are contacted if there are concerns about the progress of the student. Stage 10 – Completion of Practice Feedback Form The module leader/teacher: Records comments, feedback and advice for the student within the Ongoing Achievement Record.

Records re-assessment requirements if the mentor has referred the student. Makes the provisional result available to the student usually within four working weeks of the submission date of the assessment documents. The student’s Ongoing Achievement Record (OAR) which will include any feedback is available for collection from Faculty Student Reception/Student Reception/Partnership Lecturer on the relevant site after the date as advised by the module teacher. Students have the option of providing a stamped, self-addressed envelope (SAE) for return of the completed form and coursework; OAR documents must be collected or arrangements for recorded delivery made. (Please refer to Section 11 for further details). Stage 11 Mentors - Criteria for Mentors Nurses and midwives who intend to take on the role of mentor must fulfil the criteria set out in the Standards to Support Learning and Assessment in Practice, that their Triennial Review is up to date and that they are currently “live” on their employers mentor register. Criteria for Sign - Off Mentor Please refer to the Student Handbook. Stage 12 – Review of assessment documentation by module team The module leader/teacher is responsible for making all assessment of practice documentation available for scrutiny by the module team. This is to ensure that the accuracy of the records, quality of comments and outcomes are considered. For modules with 10 or fewer students the team will normally review all assessment of practice documents. For student groups over 10, the minimum number of documents sampled should be 10, plus all of the referrals in practice. The sample should include a cross section of placement areas and taught sites. Any issues relating to the parity, validity or reliability of the assessment of practice or the process for the module in general should also be discussed.



Stage 13 – Review by external examiner The module teacher is responsible for identifying a sample of assessment of practice documents to be made available to the external examiner either at Subject Assessment Panel or sent to the examiner by Programme Administration. The sample should include:

The assessment of Ongoing Achievement Record that matches an assessment of theory script selected.

All referrals in practice with the matching assessment of theory script.

All or a sample of Ongoing Achievement Record, in line with programme requirements.

Stage 14 – Subject Assessment Panel https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/your-studies/essential-information/regulations The module leader is responsible for ensuring that a designated member of the module team attends the relevant Subject Assessment Panel where:

The module marks/results are confirmed

The overall statistics are considered and the provisional results are confirmed

the comments from the external examiner are reviewed

recommendations are made about the reassessment of referred students. Stage 15 – Extenuating circumstances https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/your-studies/essential-information/exams/exam-rules-and-regulations/extenuating-circumstances The student has the option of submitting details of extenuating circumstances that might have prevent their ability to submit an assessment. The form and supporting evidence should normally be submitted as detailed on the form within ten working days following the specified submission date for the assessment of practice. Further details about extenuating circumstances are available in the Student Handbook or on the Plymouth University website above. Stage 16 – Award Assessment Board https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/your-studies/essential-information/regulations The Award Assessment Board ratifies the results and agrees the publication date for the results.



https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/your-studies/essential-information/exams/exam-rules-and-regulations/extenuating-circumstances

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/your-studies/essential-information/exams/exam-rules-and-regulations/extenuating-circumstances






Students normally have two attempts at the assessment of practice. Please refer to the programme/module handbook or contact the module teacher for further information. The Award Assessment Board agrees the process of resubmission for referred students. This includes:

the format of the assessment

placement arrangements

date(s) for reassessment of practice as applicable. Stage 17 – Publication of results The Professional Services team sends out an individual transcript of the result to the student by an agreed date (normally within 10 working days of the Award Assessment Board). Results can be viewed on the Statement of Results available on line. Students who have passed can proceed, or complete the programme. Students who are referred in practice should contact their module teacher or personal tutor as appropriate, usually within 5 working days of the receipt of the Award Assessment Board results. This will provide the opportunity to discuss the process of reassessment and the available support systems if required. Please refer to Section 8 for full details of support for students who are referred in practice. Students who have failed the assessment of practice for the module are either discontinued from the programme or are required to undertake another clinical module. Please refer to the relevant pre-registration or post qualification programme handbook for specific details. If a student fails more than 60 Level 4 or Level 5 credits, the Award Assessment Board may, at its discretion:

exceptionally allow the student to retake the appropriate assessment at the next available opportunity (without attendance), based on a judgement of the student’s overall performance and potential, or

require the student to repeat the failed modules with attendance, or

exceptionally require the student to withdraw from the programmes. Students should be aware that a referral in practice (for whatever reason) for the module will affect the pass mark awarded for the associated theoretical coursework. The mark will be capped at 40% thus influencing the final degree classification at Level 6. Stage 18 - Nursing and Midwifery Council requirements for progression Students may not progress to year 2 or year 3 (as appropriate) unless they have passed all the required modules for year one or year two, including


practice components. Student will have two further opportunities to resit referred theory and practice following the end of year Award Assessment Board. The first resit opportunity will be presented at the Award Assessment Resit Board held six weeks following the end of year Award Assessment Board. The second opportunity will be presented at the extended Award Assessment Resit Board held eleven weeks following the end of year Award Assessment Board. Any student who has not achieved all module components by this Award Assessment Board will automatically be repeating the outstanding modules and be unable to progress into year two. This meets both the Nursing and Midwifery Council requirement that all theory and practice is completed for an academic year by week twelve of the next academic year before the student is allowed to progress into year two or three and has met the NMC progression points for the programme.


APPENDIX 7 ASSESSMENT GUIDELINES 1. You are required to comply with the University Rules and Regulations in the

preparation of your summative coursework and for all other forms of assessment. The following link will take you to the page which will give you access to the main rules and regulations of the university


Your attention is drawn in particular to the sections on: Examination and Assessment Offences Late Submissions and extenuating circumstances.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you understand

a. What constitutes plagiarism and other academic offences and the potential penalties for proven offences; https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/your-studies/essential-information/regulations/plagiarism

b. How a coursework submission is deemed to be “late” and the consequences of submitting work late https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/uploads/production/document/path/7/7514/Section_D_Assessment.pdf

c. The requirements to reference your work https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/your-studies/essential-information/regulations/referencing

2. Support from academic staff for the preparation of assignments will normally be available up to one working week prior to the identified submission date. You can also contact Learning Development for support to improve your skills in areas such as:

essay writing

presentations

revision and exams

time management

reading and note making

To access resources please go to http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/learningdevelopment/Pages/default.aspx





https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/uploads/production/document/path/7/7514/Section_D_Assessment.pdf

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/uploads/production/document/path/7/7514/Section_D_Assessment.pdf

https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/your-studies/essential-information/regulations/referencing


http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/learningdevelopment/Pages/default.aspx

http://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/learningdevelopment/Pages/default.aspx


3. It is your responsibility to seek academic support and guidance as required. Module Teachers will provide formative feedback on an outline of the proposed structure and content of your coursework. They will keep a record of the advice they give you. You are strongly advised to seek guidance and feedback on your draft outline of your coursework at an early stage before you have invested too much time in preparation. Experience suggests that students who seek such advice are more successful than those who do not.

4. Anonymity and confidentiality must be maintained with regard to all service user / patient details and names of workers, whatever medium of assessment is used, e.g. written, video, photographic, audio recordings. This applies to the main body of your coursework submission, appendices and any accompanying material. If work is submitted that, in the judgement of the marker(s), appears to breach anonymity or confidentiality it will be awarded a mark of zero.

The primary intention of 'confidentiality/anonymity' is based upon a duty of care to protect the identity of patients or service users of health and social care agencies, their carers and families. Please note, specific health or social care services, NHS Trusts or hospitals, local authorities, voluntary or independent care organisations must not be named. This includes placement sites. However, material that is in the public domain can be used and must be appropriately referenced. If others are contributing to your portfolio work it is advisable to include their written permission before submitting the assignment. You must also ensure that your work complies with current copyright regulations. Leaflets are available from Learning Development and information is available via moodle. See http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/pages/view.asp?page=36399 for further information. An accurate word count must be given with the coursework - you will be penalised by a 5% reduction of the overall percentage mark if one is not included. If an inaccurate word count is given that misrepresents the true word total this will be treated as Academic Dishonesty. Exceeding the word limit may lead to a penalty. Individual programmes and the module teams will decide how they will operate this academic judgement on word count. This will be made clear in the module handbook. Normally, no more than five additional items should be included as appendices where required except where indicated in the assignment brief. Coursework submission should include referencing and a reference list (https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/student-life/your-studies/essential-information/regulations/referencing )Failure to submit a reference list will be penalised. The referencing convention used in the School of Nursing and Midwifery is based on the Harvard system and is called ‘Cite Them Right’. Detailed guidance on how to reference using ‘Cite Them Right’ can be found at: http://plymouth.libguides.com/referencing

http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/pages/view.asp?page=36399



http://plymouth.libguides.com/referencing


The style is taken from the following book by Pears and Shield (although the Faculty does not require URL or date accessed for electronic books and journal articles): Pears, R. & Shields, G. (2010) Cite them right: the essential guide to referencing and plagiarism. 8th.edn. Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan. Copies of the book can be found in the library at Shelfmark 808.02 PEA or you can purchase a copy from most bookshops for around £8.99. You may wish to use the Endnote Web reference management system where you can store your references centrally and automatically create bibliographies in a chosen style which can save you a lot of time. The Cite them right style can be found as a style choice on Endnote Web. Training on using Endnote Web will be offered throughout the academic year and you should contact your subject librarian for further details. Further info can also be found here:

http://plymouth.libguides.com/endnote

http://plymouth.libguides.com/endnote


APPENDIX 8 GENERIC MARKING CRITERIA

Grade LEVEL 4 - Certificate LEVEL 5 - Diploma LEVEL 6 - Degree

Outstanding 86-100%

Comprehensive coverage of relevant issues. Extremely well informed knowledge base relevant to assignment. Very clearly written, logically structured and presented. Critical discussion of current issues and their influence on practice. Excellent application `of theory to practice. Evidence of consistently safe and exemplary standard of practice.

Consistently logical and critical analysis throughout. Exemplary linkage of recent research to practice. Demonstrates consistent independent thought on contemporary issues. Extensive and wide-ranging knowledge of relevant theory and contemporary issues. Incorporates evidence of the highest standards of, and consistently safe practice. Incorporates a reasoned ethical dimension throughout the work.

Critical analysis and synthesis of the possibilities and limitations of methodology and theory. Extremely well constructed and logically presented argument throughout. Sound ethical reasoning consistently demonstrated. Able to select and apply specific theories to generate innovative solutions to complex situations. Outstanding comprehension of contemporary issues. Excellent application of recent research to practice. Incorporates evidence of consistently safe and highest standards of practice. Leadership and assertive advocacy for clients and colleagues demonstrated where appropriate.



Excellent 70-85%

Thorough coverage of relevant issues. Well informed knowledge base relevant to assignment. Clearly written, logically structured and presented. Discussion of current issues and their influence on practice. Excellent application of theory to practice. Evidence of consistently safe and high standards of practice.

Well argued presentation and critical analysis throughout. Identifies and discusses relevant ethical issues. Excellent relationship of recent research to practice. Evidence of independent thought on contemporary issues. Comprehensive and wide-ranging knowledge base of relevant theory. Incorporates evidence of consistently safe and high standards of practice. Advocacy and sensitivity for clients and colleagues demonstrated.

Identifies limitations of methodology, theory and scope of practice. Well constructed and logically presented argument. Sound ethical reasoning demonstrated. Able to select and apply specific theories to complex situations. Excellent comprehension of contemporary issues. Excellent relationship of recent research to practice. Incorporates evidence of consistently safe and best standards of practice. Assertive advocacy for clients and colleagues demonstrated where appropriate.



Very Good 60-68%

Descriptions based upon a broad range of relevant knowledge and reading. Theory consistently applied to practice. Describes relevant issues. Awareness of current issues and their influence on practice. Clearly and logically presented and structured Incorporates evidence of safe and consistently well-applied practice.

Balanced arguments and presentation. Accurate application of relevant theory to practice issues. Evidence of safe and good practice. Provides a sound rationale for interventions. Evidence of ability to critically analyse information. Advocacy for clients and colleagues demonstrated. Well structured and logical presentation.

Evidence of ethical reasoning. Evidence of wide knowledge base and critical reading. Evidence of critical reasoning to solve problems. Critical understanding of relevant issues and processes (e.g. Research process). Argument founded on the basis of evidence. Safe and evidence-based practice consistently described or executed. Good range of sources used appropriately. Very well written and engaging



Good 50-58%

Utilises appropriate and relevant theory. Consistent application of appropriate theory to practice. Incorporates evidence of safe practice. Well structured and developed presentation. Clearly expressed References and/or supporting material generally accurate.

Sound knowledge of subject matter. Evidence of ability to apply knowledge to new situations. Analysis of current issues. Some argument introduced. Demonstrates (understanding of) safe clinical / professional practice. Sensitive empathy with clients, carers and colleagues demonstrated. Correct citation of references and literature used effectively and/or relevant supporting material generally accurate. Structured and clear presentation.

Well referenced and cited. Applies relevant research to current practice issues. Capacity to analyse concepts and balance arguments. Selects specific and appropriate theory to enhance arguments. Sensitive and insightful empathy demonstrated. Consistent safe practice (described) with some reference to evidence based rationale Structured and clear presentation. Clearly expressed and well structured



Satisfactory 40-48%

Meets the criteria and requirements of the module assessment Meets module specific criteria. Meets relevant Learning Outcomes for module. Some appropriate and relevant theory described. References and/or relevant supporting material generally accurate. Some relevant knowledge applied to practice. Evidence of safe practice (described). Structure and presentation not always clear.

Meets the criteria and requirements of the assignment/examination. Meets module specific criteria. Meets relevant Learning Outcomes for module. References, bibliography and/or supporting materials generally accurate. Some appropriate and relevant theory utilised. Some evidence of understanding and discussion. Safe and relevant practice described. Structure and presentation not always clear.

Meets the criteria and requirements of the assignment/examination. Meets module specific criteria. Meets relevant Learning Outcomes for module. Some appropriate and relevant theory described. Scope for deeper arguments and issues. Safe practice (described) with some reference to evidence-based underpinning. References, bibliography and/or supporting material generally accurate, but limited Structure and presentation not always clear.



Failure to Achieve a pass grade 30-38% Not a pass

Does not fully meet the criteria and requirements of the module assessment Does not meet module specific criteria or relevant learning outcomes. Limited range of relevant theory. Frequent referencing errors and/or inappropriate use/selection of supporting materials. Inappropriate description and application of theory to practice. Poor understanding of practice issues. Lacking in logical structure and sequencing. Evidence of unsafe practice

Does not meet the criteria and requirements of the module assessment Does not meet module specific criteria or relevant learning outcomes. Limited evidence of reading and underpinning knowledge. Frequent referencing errors and /or inappropriate use/selection of supporting materials. Poor understanding of practice issues. Almost completely descriptive. Misconceptions and basic errors of underpinning theory. Lacks structure and difficult to follow.

Does not meet the criteria and requirements of the assignment/examination. Does not meet module specific criteria or relevant Learning Outcomes. Limited analysis or synthesis. Poorly developed argument. Restricted range and understanding of underpinning theory. Inappropriate application of theory to practice. Frequent referencing errors. Poor understanding of practice issues. Poorly written/presented. Poorly structured. Evidence of unsafe practice



Clear Failure to achieve a pass grade 29% and below

Unreferenced and/or no supporting material. Lacking any relevant theoretical content. Poorly organised presentation. Difficult to read and follow. Unsafe practice

Limited and inaccurate referencing and /or supporting materials. Lack of understanding. Lacking structure and difficult to follow. Serious misconceptions and basic errors of underpinning theory. Unsafe practice

Few or no source references used. Lacking in analysis and synthesis. Poorly informed knowledge base. Limited and inappropriate links between theory and practice. Large number of grammatical and spelling errors Unsafe or ineffective practice

Not a pass

1. The following attributes indicate that the work would not meet the required standard for a pass grade across all academic levels: Unsafe and insensitive practice by student; incoherent, illegible, discriminatory and judgmental content; unreferenced throughout; anonymity/confidentiality breached. 2. In cases of Proven Academic Dishonesty and Late Submission specific penalties apply. Consult the current Plymouth University Student Handbook.

PROGRAMME HANDBOOK 2016/2017 - University of Plymouth · 2016-11-18 · BSc (Hons) Nursing...

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