Adult Nursing BSc (Hons) Maximising and promoting health and independence throughout the lifespan...
Course overview ADULT NURSING The Adult Nursing course provides students with the opportunity to develop skills in caring for adults with long and short-term health problems throughout the lifespan. We aim to educate nurses to be confi dent, professional practitioners who contribute creatively and effectively to health care. The course will build and extend knowledge using learning through experience to integrate the theory and practice of nursing. Experience is gained in a variety of clinical environments within hospital and community settings. Adult Nursing can be studied in Oxford at the Marston Road site or at the Ferndale Campus in Swindon. Oxford has two intakes of students; September and January. The Ferndale Campus in Swindon has one intake in September. About the course The academic course consists of units of study called modules, which may be single or double. The modules are divided into three distinct components: Adult Nursing specifi c modules, Partnerships modules, and shared-learning modules. The specifi c modules are designed to provide students with the knowledge, confi dence and skills required to nurse adults while the Partnerships and shared modules, which are undertaken with students on other health and social care courses, introduce interprofessional and interdisciplinary aspects of health and social care. This offers students a broad spectrum of health care skills and knowledge. The Adult Nursing course has been developed in tandem with the other pre-registration undergraduate courses. A short description of the modules included in the Adult Nursing course is included within the Module descriptions section. Honours degree students complete 24 modules of study which must include a double dissertation module within the 24 modules undertaken. Students may also exit with an ordinary degree (no dissertation). Any course may be taken full-time (over three years), part-time or as mixed mode full-time/part-time (up to a maximum of seven years). Part-time students must pass at least three modules per academic year but not take more than fi ve. Teaching, learning and assessment Experience in the clinical setting is combined with lectures, seminars, workshops and clinical skills laboratory work. Students will have the opportunity to undertake experiential learning, independent study, discussion and debate, problem based learning and e-learning. This provides a broad repertoire of academic and professional skills and the level of understanding necessary for competence as fi rst level practitioners upon graduation. Placements Nursing practice is a key element of the course and students will usually undertake seven clinical placements during the course. Students undertaking practice are supported by Link Lecturers and a team of mentors in the clinical area. First Year students start their practice in week eight following an introductory period of learning in the classroom and clinical skills suite. Placements can take place anywhere in Oxfordshire (for Oxford based students) or Wiltshire, Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire (for Swindon based students) and during their time with us students gain surgical, medical and community experience in a variety of NHS and independant sector settings (including hospitals, community settings and nursing homes). Students work day, night and weekend shifts according to the shift pattern used within the practice setting allowing them to experience care as it is provided over the whole 24 hours. Students are expected to undertake a minimum of 12 night shifts across the duration of their course but can undertake more than this. Students can undertake a national or international placement, in the form of an elective module, in a location of the students choice during the summer vacation at the end of their second year. Student support The Adult Nursing teaching team is comprised of academic staff members and support staff members who all play a role in supporting students throughout their course. The team, who are based on sites in Swindon and Oxford, are managed by Programme Leaders who operationally and strategically manage the Adult Nursing course. Each student is allocated an academic adviser who facilitate tutorial groups to allow students to refl ect on and share experiences with a peer group. They also provide individual support with academic development. Student support co-ordinators provide a drop in service for any queries you might have about any aspect of student life, covering both academic and personal welfare. Whilst undertaking placements your development will be facilitated by mentors who will assess your clinical competence. You will also be supported by an academic team of Link Lecturers. Practice is assessed through clinical competency achievement, and is an integral part of the practice related modules. Academic assessments include essays, examinations, presentations, learning contracts and projects.
Exchange programmes As well as offering the opportunity to undertake an elective placement, the Adult Nursing course participates in two exchange programmes. The PENN exchange is an annual exchange programme with the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA and the Erasmus exchange programme which currently includes Sweden, Spain and Hungary. This is available to all students. The structure of semesters The academic year at Oxford Brookes University is divided into two semesters, each having 11/12 weeks of teaching. Semester 1 runs from the end of September until the end of January and semester 2 runs from the end of January until the end of May. There is a break between each semester and for the Christmas and Easter holidays. As the Adult Nursing course has professional as well as educational requirements to fulfi l, there will be further learning activities, outside the semesters, scheduled to enable students to achieve the full 4,600 hours of student effort required by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). Students will be required to be available for extra semester work in January, June, July and September of each year. The semester dates for future academic years can be found via the website: www.brookes.ac.uk/studying/teaching/calend Quality and innovation Our courses are periodically assessed by external examiners who have consistently endorsed the quality of our teaching. The school is also subject to the university s own rigorous academic procedures. Each course is managed by a committee, which is responsible for day-to-day quality, and students are encouraged to take an active part in course decision making and forward planning. An example of our innovative approach is the use of student portfolios. This helps students to develop transferable skills that are independent of their subject specialisation skills such as teamwork, presentation and time management. Student representation The Adult Nursing course has a well-established Student Forum made up of student representatives from each year and course together with staff members. The Forum is highly valued by the course teaching team and students as it provides an offi cial channel of communication between staff and students. This Forum provides information for various course specifi c groups and committees and allows the course teaching team to maintain and improve the quality of its courses through student feedback. Careers day Each year the Adult Nursing course, in collaboration with local employers, runs a careers day for its graduating students. This gives our students the chance to fi nd out what nursing opportunities are available locally and nationally upon graduation. Qualifi ed staff are on hand to provide information about their specialist areas. Career opportunities The Adult Nursing course prepares students for professional registration on Level 1 of the NMC Professional Register for Nurses, Midwives and Health Visitors, as well as carrying the academic award of a degree. After studying on the degree course, students will have the knowledge and skills to meet the challenge of a constantly changing health care environment, and to care competently for clients requiring the support of an Adult Nurse. Adult Registered Nurses have the opportunity, post-qualifi cation, to develop their careers in many specialist settings, such as intensive care units, accident and emergency departments, operating theatres or specialist wards where medical or surgical treatment is given. They can also work in the community, within district or practice nursing, in industry, or in the private health care sector. Opportunities also exist to work abroad, for the Armed Forces or to specialise in research education or management. ADULT NURSING
ADULT NURSING Entry requirements 5 GCSEs at grade C including English Language, Mathematics and a science subject or the equivalent academic level, or Access to Higher Education with a minimum of 45 credits at Level 3 (to include 12 Level 3 credits in Biology) and 15 credits at Level 2 (to include 12 Level 2 credits in Maths, if a GCSE/O- Level at grade C or above has not been previously achieved). Plus 3 A-Levels at grade CCC (science preferred). Applicants will be screened for fi tness to practise and a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check will be made. Many of our prospective students have found related work experience, such as working as a Health Care Assistant or voluntary work, has helped them gain a good insight into the nurse s role prior to starting a nursing course. This is also a valuable way to enhance your application. The Senior Tutor (Admissions) may be contacted for advice on the application process on (01865) 482582. How to apply All full-time applications should be made through UCAS details are included in the useful contacts section overleaf. Part-time applications can be made directly to the university by contacting the Administrator. Codes for UCAS applications Institution: O66 UCAS Codes: Oxford based: B701 BSc/NT Swindon based: B700 BSc/NTS Institution Code Name: OXFD Open days Please check our website regularly where details of our Open Days will be advertised. If you would like to have a tour of the Headington campus, please contact the enquiry centre on (01865) 484848 or email query@brookes.ac.uk Financial help All offers are based upon NHS funding eligibility. Clarifi cation of eligibility can be obtained through accessing the NHS Student Bursaries website: www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/students/816.aspx
ADULT NURSING Module descriptions A number of optional modules are also available. Development of the Human Body and Mind The module will introduce you to some of the basic principles of human life sciences using a life span development approach. You will be introduced to cell biology and the development of the human body from reproduction and a single cell. The module then explores the roles of the central nervous system, and endocrine system in the physiological control of the human body, and the role of the immune system, blood and the lymphatic system in protecting the body. Examples of pathology refl ecting a lifespan approach will be used in lectures and seminars to promote understanding of underlying anatomy and physiology. Life Science for Health Care Professionals The module will explore a systems based approach to anatomy and physiology needed by adult, mental health, learning disability, children s nurses and midwives in practice. Major systems of the human body will be explored in this single module as they pertain to clinical practice. Examples of pathology refl ecting a lifespan approach will be used in lectures and seminars to promote understanding of underlying anatomy physiology. Applied Life Science for Adult Nurses The module will look at the interrelationships between systems within the body focusing on normal physiology and exploring pathophysiological changes that interfere with this. Systems covered include: the skin, nutrition, microbiology, tissue perfusion and cardio-pulmonary processes and ageing. The module teaching will consist of workshops that will use examples from clinical practice to reinforce the relationship between biological knowledge and nursing practice. The module will further explore how the anatomy and physiology of the human body pertains to clinical practice. Partnerships 1: Using Evidence in Professional Practice This module is the foundation for stage II Partnerships modules 2 and 3. It will introduce the concept of using evidence in professional practice, develop skills of literature searching and evaluation and enable students to discuss inclusion and diversity in relation to professional practice Introduction to Person Centered Care Introduction to Professional Practice is a double practice compulsory shared module that introduces you to concepts and theories relevant to professional practice and will give you the opportunity to develop both generic and profession specifi c skills and knowledge within a multiprofessional context. Developing Person Centre Care A double practice related compulsory shared module, which enables students to explore the concept of holistic assessment, planning, implementing and evaluation of care. This includes recognition of physiological, sociological, psychological and cultural contexts and the relevance of the individuals spirituality and sexuality. Partnerships 2: Developing Effective Working Practices This module is an integrated and interdisciplinary analysis of interprofessional working and effective teamwork within health and social care. The emphasis is on evaluating how different professional groups develop effective working practices when working in partnership with each other. This will lead to a greater understanding of the contribution that each professional group makes in order to provide seamless health and social care for people with diverse needs. Research Awareness and Critical Appraisal The module aims to develop understanding of the concept of using evidence in professional practice and to develop the skills of appraising and evaluating the quality of the literature using literature evaluation models.
Module descriptions continued... ADULT NURSING Experiences of Health and Illness: Adult Nursing Practice 1 This is a practice related module, one of a series of three designed to address some of the core knowledge, skills and attitudes required of the Adult Nurse working with people in a range of Health care settings. During the module, students will consider the clients experience of those with Cardiovascular, Respiratory, Musculoskeletal, Neurological and Immune system conditions in both primary and secondary care environments. The module will address evidence-based knowledge and skills development in order to assess, plan, implement and evaluate personcentred care across the lifespan. Experiences of Health and Illness: Adult Nursing Practice 2 This is a practice related module, one of a series of three designed to address some of the core knowledge, skills and attitudes required of the Adult Nurse working with people in a range of Health care settings. During the module, students will consider the client s experience of those with Renal, Gastrointestinal, Endocrine, Integumentary system, Reproductive, and Haematological conditions in both primary and secondary care environments. The module will address evidence-based knowledge and skills development in order to assess, plan, implement and evaluate person-centred care across the lifespan. Complex and Challenging issues in Adult Nursing Practice This is a practice related module, one of a series of three designed to address some of the core knowledge, skills and attitudes required of the Adult Nurse working with people in a range of Health care settings. During the module, students will consider the client s experience of challenging situations and the potential impact on them as practitioners. This will include caring for people with complex, multiple and lifelimiting conditions, recognising the impact this can have on their families and carers, whilst retaining personal and professional integrity. Partnerships 3: Managing Collaboration This module builds on the Year 2 advanced module Partnerships 2: Developing Effective Working Practices. The module is an integrated study of the evidence base to working in partnership within diverse teams/ agencies and across professional and organisational boundaries. Making Decisions and Using Evidence This is a single practice related module which builds on the knowledge, skills and attitudes related to clinical problem solving and decision-making introduced in earlier modules. The module explores evidencebased practice and the way it informs the clinical decision-making process. There will be opportunities for students to refl ect upon key clinical issues, analysing the use of evidence as the foundation for the decisions made in practice. Integrated Professional Practice A single, practice related module, which enables you to focus upon the nursing management of patients/clients with particular health problems and needs. Using a problem based approach the concept of holistic professional nursing practice is developed. Nursing practice and its relationship to other professional groups in the provision of comprehensive health care interventions are explored. Scenarios from clinical practice will be examined and analysed via problem based teaching methods to facilitate the integration of theory and practice and so enhance and develop the students nursing management of patients/clients and their families. Medicine Management for Adult Nursing This is a single module that will enhance and consolidate students knowledge of Medicine management and its application to Adult Nursing practice. Consolidation of Practice This is a double, practice-based module in the fi nal semester of your programme. The module enables you to consolidate clinical, professional and management skills in Adult Nursing. It will provide an opportunity to analyse practice observed and experienced within clinical teams, discuss the elements of managing a caseload of patients in complex changeable environments within the context of professional and workplace boundaries, and be able to evaluate how practice development and managerial systems are able to infl uence the quality of the heath care environment. Dissertation The dissertation module is usually the fi nal piece of academic work that you undertake for your degree. For your dissertation, you will identify a question you would like to research and then address this question in a thorough and systematic way using literature that is already published. Alternatively, you may develop your literature review into a research proposal.
Marston Road site in Oxford In Oxford, the Adult Nursing course is taught at the Marston Road site. We have created a coherent, integrated education unit for health and social care students, teachers and researchers. The Marston Road site provides extensive and upto-date facilities that help students and qualifi ed staff to learn and develop the most appropriate skills and techniques to enable them to practice safely and competently, no matter where their patients or clients might be in hospital, in care homes, or at home in the local community. These facilities include a large well equipped lecture theatre, a range of seminar rooms, clinical skills suites, including a communications suite, networked computer rooms, a cafeteria and a student common room. Ferndale Campus in Swindon Oxford Brookes University also offers an Adult Nursing degree course at our Ferndale Campus in Swindon. We have a fl ourishing student community with over 300 students now enjoying the friendly supportive environment with academic and support staff on site. The spacious, refurbished campus has facilities that enable students to develop the academic, professional and clinical skills they will need to be confi dent and competent health care professionals. These facilities include comfortable seminar rooms, well equipped lecture rooms and clinical skills suites designed for practising clinical skills in the context of hospital and community. There is a resource centre, refectory and easy access to computers networked to the Oxford site. There is also a nursery adjacent to the campus. Additional facilities can be accessed at the campus sites in Oxford where students may be taught for some multiprofessional modules. Transport is provided. There are strong links with the local NHS Trusts and independent sector where nursing students undertake clinical placements both in the acute hospital and community areas. Accommodation for Swindon-based students University sourced accommodation is provided for Swindonbased students through lettings in shared houses. Contact us for more information on 01793 437404 or email swindon-admin@ brookes.ac.uk MSc Adult Nursing (Pre-registration) * From September 2012, we are introducing a new three-year master s degree course in Adult Nursing, which will provide individuals who already have a relevant bachelor s degree, the opportunity to undertake an Adult Nursing course leading to registration at master s level. The course is open to UK and EU students and will appeal to individuals who already possess a good honours degree (normally at 2:2 or above). The course will be taught alongside the well established and highly regarded BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing course offered by Oxford Brookes University. Working at master s level, you will focus on developing a knowledge base in adult nursing, which is evidence-based and strongly underpinned by research. During Year 1, you will undertake a Graduate Diploma and then progress onto the master s route for Years 2 and 3. You may be able to enter directly into Year 2 by providing evidence of prior experience (APEL) or if you have a degree in a health/nursing/science related subject. Upon successful completion of the course, you will be a fully qualifi ed adult nurse and eligible to apply for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council. We may be able to offer a limited number of international places. For more information about this course starting in 2012, please email mscadultnursing@brookes.ac.uk * Subject to validation by the university and the Nursing and Midwifery Council. Why choose Oxford Brookes? Top-quality teaching: our lecturers are experienced in their specialist practice area and maintain excellent links with those areas locally or across the region. Many of our lecturers also have extensive national and international links. A large, dedicated building in Oxford (Marston Road) and a campus in Swindon (Ferndale) with fi rst-rate facilities including simulation suites (ward environment, high dependency setting, movement laboratory and a communication suite), all fully equipped with computerised resources and anatomy models. Our Ferndale Campus in Swindon also has a fully functional operating theatre and ward environment. Interprofessional learning with students from a broad range of health and social work professions, providing opportunities for shared learning and allowing the development of teamwork skills. Varied placement learning opportunities working alongside experienced professionals in some of the UK s leading clinical and community settings including world-leading Oxford-based hospitals and our own osteopathic teaching clinics. Research expertise in areas like public health, rehabilitation and cancer care. The last government Research Assessment Exercise rated 70% of health-related research to be internationally recognised, with some achieving world-leading status. There are excellent sports facilities at Oxford Brookes with more than 40 sports clubs and six dedicated sports of excellence. The opportunity to work overseas: UK-trained health and social work professionals are highly valued throughout the world. A huge variety of career opportunities; working in the National Health Service (NHS), social services, the independent or voluntary sectors. Excellent graduate employment: graduates from Oxford Brookes are highly regarded by employers and the majority of our graduates gain their fi rst choice of post in their chosen fi eld. Many graduates go on to further study or enter health management, education or research roles. ADULT NURSING
ADULT NURSING Useful contacts Oxford Marston Road site Course Enquiries (Oxford) Programme Administrator Telephone: +44 (0) 1865 482588 Email: adultnursing@brookes.ac.uk Website: http://shsc.brookes.ac.uk Address: Oxford Brookes University Jack Straw s Lane Marston Oxford OX3 0FL Swindon - Ferndale Campus Course Enquiries (Swindon) Administrator Telephone: +44 (0) 1793 437437/437404 Email: swindon-admin@brookes.ac.uk Address: Oxford Brookes University Ferndale Campus Ferndale Road Swindon SN2 1HL Oxford Brookes University website www.brookes.ac.uk University Campus Tours Tel: +44 (0) 1865 484848 Email: query@brookes.ac.uk Accommodation Offi ce Tel: +44 (0) 1865 484660 Email: accomm@brookes.ac.uk UCAS/NHS UCAS (Customer Service Unit) www.ucas.com Tel: +44 (0) 871 4680468 Email: enquiries@ucas.ac.uk NHS Student Bursaries www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/students/816.aspx Tel: +44 (0) 845 3586655 Email: eligibility@nhspa.gov.uk (eligibilty for bursary) bursary@nhspa.gov.uk (bursary payment) To obtain a large-print copy of (or sections of) this publication or to enquire about other formats, please contact +44 (0) 1865 484848 or email query@brookes.ac.uk Oxford Brookes University actively supports equality in education and welcomes applications from all people representative of our diverse community. For more details please visit www.brookes.ac.uk/services/hr/eod or phone +44 (0) 1865 485929 110503-2649