Mater Children's Hospital is excited to offer beginning registered nurses a 12 month transition to paediatric nursing. The program is aimed at supporting the newly-graduated nurse in their transition to paediatric nursing by enhancing and developing their clinical and leadership skills.
The program commences each year in January. Mater Education Centre and Mater Children's Hospital Clinical Nurse Educators present a 40-hour orientation program over five days.
Program Structure
The program consists of:
- a five day comprehensive orientation program
- a unit specific to preceptoring
- two or three rotations through clinical units
- structured theoretical study days and assessments.
Clinical Placement
Nurses on the program are offered two to three rotations through various specialty paediatric healthcare settings. Some choice in rotation is offered with the aim of clinical placement being to introduce the nurse to the variety of patients and ward specialties available in this tertiary facility. Support from preceptors is available in each rotation, while a Clinical Nurse (Graduate Support) is available for further support of new graduate nurses in their first six months. Level three Nurse Educators are available in each area of the hospitals.
Theoretical Component
Exciting educational opportunities will be provided to complement the clinical learning that you will undertake. These include:
- Paediatric Nursing Program (four study days)
- learning guides on clinical issues and skills
- paediatric nursing competencies
- practical clinical workshops
- opportunities to participate in various programs offered by Mater Education Centre.
Completion of theoretical and clinical assessment items ensures nurses are able to apply for credit in postgraduate courses at a university of their choice.
The program offers the opportunity to network with other beginning registered nurses through debriefing sessions. A graduation ceremony and certificate of completion will be presented on completion of the program.
Mater Children's Hospitals have been purpose built and specially designed to suit our paediatric patients and their families. New graduate nurses will be provided with support and encouragement during their learning so that they develop the essential skills and abilities needed to provide quality care for children and families.
Further Information
Clare Meadows or Bev Shields
Phone: +61 7 3163 8934 or +61 7 3163 8008
E-mail: Clare.Meadows@mater.org.au