Competency Assessment Programme (CAP) for New Zealand Registered Nurses

Program Overview

The Competency Assessment Programme for New Zealand Registered Nurses equips nurses with essential skills and knowledge for current practice in New Zealand's healthcare system. Through theory and clinical components, it provides nurses with opportunities to update their nursing skills, fulfill Nursing Council registration requirements, and advance their careers by obtaining a Certificate in Professional Practice for Registered Nurses.

Program Outline

The program aims to provide nurses with the most up-to-date skills and knowledge required to work in New Zealand's healthcare system. It is a theoretical and applied program that includes both theory courses and clinical practice hours. The theory courses can also be used for professional development purposes. The program is delivered through a combination of face-to-face and online learning, with 10 days of theoretical skill-based study.

Outline:

The program consists of two main components:

• Theory: BN721001: Contemporary Nursing Practice in New Zealand
• This course focuses on updating health assessment and fundamental nursing skills.
• It is worth 10 credits and is at Level 7.
• Clinical: BN722001: Professional Assessment: Clinical Practicum
• This course involves 240 hours of full-time rostered duties at an approved clinical provider.
• It is worth 30 credits and is at Level 7.
• It commences immediately after the two theory courses.
• It provides an opportunity to orientate oneself to nursing practice in New Zealand and demonstrate the ability to meet the Nursing Council Registered Nurses Competencies.
• Successful completion of this course, along with the theory courses, allows for application for registration with the Nursing Council of New Zealand.

Careers:

Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will achieve the Certificate in Professional Practice for Registered Nurses. The program also provides a foundation for further study in postgraduate Nursing programs in New Zealand.

Other:

• The program is offered at the Te Pūkenga Otago Polytechnic campus in Dunedin or the Te Pūkenga Southern Institute of Technology campus in Invercargill.
• International nurses can enroll in the Competency Assessment Programme for Overseas Registered Nurses.
• Clinical placements are organized by Otago Polytechnic and can be located throughout New Zealand, including outside of Dunedin.
• Candidate preferences for placement locations are taken into account by the Programme Leader.