Community Nurse Practitioner Prescribing V150 L7

Program Overview

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The Community Nurse Practitioner Prescribing program at Ulster University empowers nurses with the knowledge and skills to prescribe safely and effectively in community settings. Through a combination of theoretical and practical learning, nurses develop critical thinking, legal understanding, and clinical competencies to manage common conditions and contribute to improved patient care within the community.

Program Outline

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Objectives:

• Enhance nurses' critical thinking skills to actively participate in community nurse prescribing within their practice area.
• Explore the legal framework, professional and ethical principles involved in prescribing practice.

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Description:

• This part-time, 20 credit point postgraduate program comprises a combination of theoretical and practical learning, including 10 full days of clinical practice.
• By completing this program, community nurses can expand their professional roles and contribute more effectively to patient care within the community setting.

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Outline:

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Content:

• The CNPP program curriculum delves into the legal and ethical aspects of prescribing, pharmacology, therapeutics, and clinical decision-making.
• It covers the management of various conditions commonly encountered in community settings, such as minor ailments, chronic diseases, and end-of-life care.
• The program also focuses on communication skills, consultation techniques, and record-keeping practices essential for effective nurse prescribing.

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Structure:

• The program is delivered over a 12-week period, with a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, and tutorials.
• Students are required to complete 10 full days of clinical practice under the supervision of experienced community nurse prescribers.
• Assessment methods include written assignments, examinations, and a practice assessment document.

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Modules:

• The program comprises several modules, each focusing on specific aspects of community nurse prescribing.
• The exact modules offered may vary, but they typically cover topics such as:
• Introduction to Nurse Prescribing
• Legal and Ethical Framework for Prescribing
• Pharmacology and Therapeutics for Nurse Prescribers
• Communication and Consultation Skills for Nurse Prescribers
• Record-Keeping and Documentation for Nurse Prescribers

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Schedule:

• The program typically runs once a year, starting in January.
• The specific schedule of lectures, seminars, and other activities is provided to students upon enrollment.

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Assessment:

• The CNPP program utilizes a variety of assessment methods to evaluate students' knowledge, skills, and understanding.
• These methods include:
• Written assignments: Students complete assignments that demonstrate their understanding of key concepts and their ability to apply knowledge to practical situations.
• Examinations: Students take written examinations to assess their knowledge of theoretical aspects of prescribing.
• Practice assessment document: Students complete a document that evaluates their performance during clinical practice, demonstrating their ability to apply their knowledge and skills in a real-world setting.

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Assessment Criteria:

• The assessment criteria for each component are clearly defined and communicated to students.
• The criteria typically focus on:
• Accuracy and completeness of knowledge
• Application of knowledge to practical situations
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Professionalism and ethical conduct

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• The CNPP program employs a variety of teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles and ensure effective knowledge transfer.
These methods include:
• Interactive lectures: Experts in the field deliver lectures that engage students in discussions and encourage active learning.
• Small-group seminars: Students participate in focused discussions to explore specific topics in detail and apply theoretical concepts to practical scenarios.
• Workshops: Hands-on workshops provide students with opportunities to practice prescribing skills and gain experience in a simulated environment.
• Tutorials: Individual or small-group tutorials offer personalized support and guidance to students, addressing their specific learning needs and challenges.

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Faculty:

• The program is taught by experienced and qualified faculty members, including:
• Community nurse prescribers with extensive clinical expertise
• Pharmacists with in-depth knowledge of medications and therapeutics
• Academics specializing in healthcare law and ethics
• Medical professionals with experience in various clinical areas

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Unique Approaches:

• The CNPP program incorporates innovative teaching approaches to enhance the learning experience and ensure students are well-prepared for real-world practice.
These approaches include:
• Simulated patient encounters: Students engage in role-playing exercises where they interact with simulated patients, practicing their communication and prescribing skills in a safe and controlled environment.
• Case-based learning: Students analyze and discuss real-life case studies, applying their knowledge and skills to solve complex clinical problems.
• Reflective practice: Students engage in reflective journaling and discussions to critically evaluate their experiences and identify areas for improvement.

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Careers:

• Upon successful completion of the CNPP program, graduates are eligible to apply for registration as community nurse prescribers with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).
• This qualification opens doors to various career opportunities in diverse healthcare settings, including:
• Community health teams
• General practices
• Primary care centers
• Social care settings
• Independent nurse prescribing roles

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Other:

• The CNPP program at Ulster University is designed to equip nurses with the necessary skills and knowledge to become confident and competent community nurse prescribers.
• It provides a valuable opportunity for nurses to enhance their professional practice and contribute

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Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland and EU Settlements Status Fees: £746.60 For a 20 Credit Point Postgraduate Module the fee for 2023/24 is £746.60 Additional mandatory costs It is important to remember that costs associated with accommodation, travel (including car parking charges) and normal living will need to be covered in addition to tuition fees.