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Course Outline

NUR110 Professional Experience 2: Caring Across the Lifespan

Course Coordinator:Nicolette Bannink (nbannink@usc.edu.au) School:School of Health - Nursing

2027Trimester 3

UniSC Sunshine Coast

UniSC Moreton Bay

UniSC Caboolture

UniSC Fraser Coast

UniSC Gympie

 Blended learning Most of your course is on campus but you may be able to do some components of this course online.

Please go to unisc.edu.au for up to date information on the
teaching sessions and campuses where this course is usually offered.

What is this course about?

Description

This professional experience placement introduces you to the clinical environment, applying foundational nursing skills, communication, and person-centred care. Under supervision, you will engage in direct care, observation, and reflection to build safe, ethical, and responsive practice. This 80-hour placement reinforces NMBA Registered Nurse Standards for Practice and aligns with national quality and safety standards, supporting your transition from theory to practice and preparing you for ongoing learning and future placements.

How will this course be delivered?

Activity Hours Beginning Week Frequency
Blended learning
Learning materials – Online asynchronous learning and teaching materials. 1hr Week 1 8 times
Laboratory 1 – Simulated Learning Environment (Lab) in weeks 5, 6, 8 5hrs Week 5 3 times
Laboratory 2 – Simulated Learning Activities 2hrs Week 1 8 times
Placement – Professional Experience Placement 80hrs Not applicable Once Only

Course Topics

  • Clinical communication, patient safety, and infection prevention

  • Neurological and cardiovascular assessment

  • Respiratory assessment and oxygen therapy

  • Gastrointestinal and abdominal assessment with introduction to safe non-parenteral medication administration

  • Renal, integumentary, and musculoskeletal assessment

  • Pain assessment and holistic nursing care

What level is this course?

100 Level (Introductory)

Engaging with discipline knowledge and skills at foundational level, broad application of knowledge and skills in familiar contexts and with support. Limited or no prerequisites. Normally, associated with the first full-time study year of an undergraduate program.

What is the unit value of this course?

18 units

How does this course contribute to my learning?

Course Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this course, you should be able to... Graduate Qualities Mapping Completing these tasks successfully will contribute to you becoming... Professional Standard Mapping * Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia
1 Demonstrate introductory nursing skills applied to safe patient care Empowered 
3.1, 3.4, 5.5, 6.1, 6.2
2 Undertake safe, person-centred health assessments and nursing interventions across the lifespan, applying knowledge in placement settings Empowered 
1.1, 4.1, 4.2, 5.1, 6.1
3 Practice safely within scope of practice Ethical 
1.1, 1.4, 1.5, 6.2, 6.5, 6.6
4 Integrate Cultural Safety and communication strategies in diverse care contexts Ethical 
1.3, 2.2, 2.5, 6.1
5 Reflect on professional growth and development through Professional Experience Placement Ethical 
1.2, 3.3, 3.5, 3.7
6 Apply foundational academic conventions and basic digital literacy skills to produce structured and ethical scholarly communication, incorporating introductory collaborative approaches where appropriate. Ethical 
1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 2.2, 2.6, 3.1, 3.3, 7.2, 7.3

* Competencies by Professional Body

CODE COMPETENCY
Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia
1.1 The RN accesses, analyses, and uses the best available evidence, that includes research findings for safe quality practice
1.2 The RN develops practice through reflection on experiences, knowledge, actions, feelings and beliefs to identify how these shape practice
1.3 The RN 1.3 respects all cultures and experiences, which includes responding to the role of family and community that underpin the health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and people of other cultures
1.4 The RN complies with legislation, common law, policies, guidelines and other standards or requirements relevant to the context of practice when making decisions
1.5 The RN uses ethical frameworks when making decisions
1.6 The RN maintains accurate, comprehensive and timely documentation of assessments, planning, decision- making, actions and evaluations
2.2 The RN communicates effectively, and is respectful of a person’s dignity, culture, values, beliefs and rights
2.5 The RN advocates on behalf of people in a manner that respects the person’s autonomy and legal capacity
2.6 The RN uses delegation, supervision, coordination, consultation and referrals in professional relationships to achieve improved health outcomes
3.1 The RN considers and responds in a timely manner to the health and well being of self and others in relation to the capability for practice
3.3 The RN uses a lifelong learning approach for continuing professional development of self and others
3.4 The RN accepts accountability for decisions, actions, behaviours and responsibilities inherent in their role, and for the actions of others to whom they have delegated responsibilities
3.5 The RN seeks and responds to practice review and feedback
3.7 The RN identifies and promotes the integral role of nursing practice and the profession in influencing better health outcomes for people
4.1 The RN conducts assessments that are holistic as well as culturally appropriate
4.2 The RN uses a range of assessment techniques to systematically collect relevant and accurate information and data to inform practice
5.1 The RN uses assessment data and best available evidence to develop a plan
5.5 The RN coordinates resources effectively and efficiently for planned actions
6.1 The RN provides comprehensive safe, quality practice to achieve agreed goals and outcomes that are responsive to the nursing needs of people
6.2 The RN practises within their scope of practice
6.5 The RN practises in accordance with relevant nursing and health guidelines, standards, regulations and legislation
6.6 The RN uses the appropriate processes to identify and report potential and actual risk related system issues and where practice may be below the expected standards
7.2 The RN revises the plan based on the evaluation
7.3 The RN determines, documents and communicates further priorities, goals and outcomes with the relevant persons

Am I eligible to enrol in this course?

Refer to the UniSC Glossary of terms for definitions of “pre-requisites, co-requisites and anti-requisites”.

Pre-requisites

NUR106 or NUR111 and enrolled in UB013

Co-requisites

Not applicable

Anti-requisites

NUR116 and NUR117

Specific assumed prior knowledge and skills (where applicable)

Not applicable

Microcredential Information

Not applicable

How am I going to be assessed?

Grading Scale

Limited Grading (PNP)

Pass (PU), Fail (UF). All assessment tasks are required to be passed for successful completion of the course.

Details of early feedback on progress

Students must successfully complete both the theoretical and PEP components of each professional experience course.  A Fail grade in either component prevents progression to subsequent courses, ensuring safe practice is consistently demonstrated before advancing.

In this Professional Experience course, you will receive ongoing, formative feedback through your active participation in classes and your simulation activities. By engaging fully, you will have frequent opportunities to receive early feedback on your knowledge, skills, and professional behaviours. This feedback helps you monitor your progress, build confidence, and prepare for both assessments and safe, effective clinical practice.

Assessment tasks

Delivery mode Task No. Assessment Product Individual or Group What is the duration / length? When should I submit? Where should I submit it?
All 1 Activity Participation Individual 
Throughout the teaching period
 Week 10 Online Assignment Submission with plagiarism check
All 2 Quiz/zes Individual 
60 minutes
 Week 8 Online Test (Quiz)
All 3 Portfolio Individual 
As determined by your Course Coordinator
 Throughout teaching period (refer to Format) Online Assignment Submission with plagiarism check
All 4 Placement performance Individual 
80 hours
 Throughout teaching period (refer to Format) SONIA
All - Assessment Task 1:Scheduled Learning Activities
Goal: 
To help you feel confident and prepared for your Professional Experience Placement, you will engage in a range of learning activities, including those that take place in the Simulated Learning Environments (SLE). These sessions are designed to give you safe opportunities to practise and apply your skills before working with patients in real settings.
Product: Activity Participation
Authorship Statement:
Format: 
You are expected to attend and fully engage in at least 80% of scheduled learning activities. Attendance will be recorded by your tutor. At the end of the course, you will need to upload your signed attendance sheet in Canvas as evidence of participation.
Criteria:
No. Learning Outcome assessed
1 
Attends a minimum of 80% of scheduled learning activities, including those in the SLE.
 1
2 
Provides signed evidence of attendance uploaded via Canvas.
 1
Generic Skills: 
Communication, Organisation
All - Assessment Task 2:Med+Safe quiz
Goal: 
The goal of this task is for you to demonstrate your ability to safely calculate oral medications and understand the Rights associated with safe medication administration.
Product: Quiz/zes
Authorship Statement:
Format: 
You will complete a Med+Safe online quiz, which focuses on the Rights of safe medication administration and the calculations needed for the administration of oral medications. To pass, you must achieve 100% accuracy.
Criteria:
No. Learning Outcome assessed
1 
Demonstrates proficiency in safe calculation of oral medications.
 1
Generic Skills: 
Problem solving, Organisation
All - Assessment Task 3:Professional Portfolio
Goal: 
The goal of the professional portfolio is for you to collect and showcase evidence of your developing nursing knowledge, skills, and professional behaviours across the program. This portfolio provides a structured way to reflect on your growth and progress. It demonstrates your progressive achievement of the NMBA Registered Nurse Standards for Practice and it supports your readiness for safe practice.
Product: Portfolio
Authorship Statement:
Format: 
Across the teaching period, you will contribute to your portfolio that includes evidence of your learning and development as directed by your Course Coordinator. Your portfolio should demonstrate how you are building your professional capabilities, reflecting on your practice, and aligning with professional and ethical standards. This portfolio will also contribute to your ongoing preparation for clinical practice and future employment.
Criteria:
No. Learning Outcome assessed
1 
Submission of a portfolio that includes the required evidence
 6
2 
Portfolio shows evidence of reflective practice, with thoughtful insights into personal and professional growth
 5 6
3 
Portfolio presented in a clear and organised format, applying academic conventions and integrity in communication
 6
Generic Skills: 
Communication, Collaboration, Problem solving, Organisation
All - Assessment Task 4:Professional Experience Placement
Goal: 
The goal of this assessment is for you to demonstrate safe and competent nursing practice at an introductory student level, measured against the NMBA Registered Nurse Standards for Practice using the Australian Nursing Standards Assessment Tool (ANSAT). To achieve a satisfactory result, you must also complete all allocated placement hours for this course.
Product: Placement performance
Authorship Statement:
Format: 
1. Completion of required hours: You must complete the allocated placement hours for your course. Evidence of attendance and completion will be recorded in Sonia and must be submitted to finalise your placement. 2. Progressive assessment: During your placement, you will engage in regular feedback and reflection with your facilitator. This process helps you review your practice, track your progress against the ANSAT criteria, and identify strategies to support your success. 3. Final assessment: At the end of placement, your clinical facilitator/preceptor will complete the summative ANSAT based on your overall performance. The ANSAT is then submitted to the course coordinator for review and final approval of results in line with UniSC assessment policies. Ongoing feedback and support: You will receive formative feedback throughout your placement as part of your professional development. If any areas of concern arise, a learning plan will be developed in partnership with you to guide improvement and ensure you have every opportunity to meet the required standards. 4. Professional expectations: You are expected to maintain safe practice at all times in line with the NMBA Code of Conduct for Nurses and the ICN Code of Ethics. Unsafe practice, breaches of professional standards, or behaviours that place patients at risk may result in removal from placement and failure of the course. 5. Supportive pathways to success: If a learning plan is required, you will be supported to meet all requirements before the final assessment. Successful completion of your Professional Experience Placement requires both full attendance of allocated hours and achievement of the ANSAT at an introductory level.
Criteria:
No. Learning Outcome assessed
1 
Completes a minimum of 80 hours of supervised placement
 1 2 3
2 
Demonstrates foundational nursing skills applied safely in supervised patient care.
 2 3
3 
Undertakes health assessments and interventions across different life stages under supervision.
 2
4 
Applies person-centred care approaches in placement settings, guided by knowledge and supervision.
 1 2
5 
Integrates Cultural Safety and effective communication strategies appropriate for diverse care contexts.
 4
6 
Reflects on professional growth and learning, identifying strengths and areas for development.
 5
Generic Skills: 
Communication, Collaboration, Problem solving, Organisation

Assessment to competency mapping

Programme Delivery Mode Assessment Type Title Competency Teaching Methods
Registered nurse standards for practice - 1 June 2016
All delivery modes Activity Participation Scheduled Learning Activities 1.3 Assessed
1.6 Assessed
2.2 Assessed
2.3 Assessed
3.7 Assessed
4.1 Assessed
4.2 Assessed
4.3 Assessed
5.1 Assessed
6.1 Assessed
6.2 Assessed
7.1 Assessed
7.2 Assessed
7.3 Assessed
Placement performance Professional Experience Placement 1.1 Assessed
1.2 Assessed
1.3 Assessed
1.4 Assessed
1.5 Assessed
1.6 Assessed
2.1 Assessed
2.2 Assessed
2.3 Assessed
2.4 Assessed
2.5 Assessed
2.6 Assessed
2.7 Assessed
2.8 Assessed
3.1 Assessed
3.2 Assessed
3.3 Assessed
3.4 Assessed
3.5 Assessed
3.6 Assessed
3.7 Assessed
4.1 Assessed
4.2 Assessed
4.3 Assessed
5.1 Assessed
5.2 Assessed
5.3 Assessed
5.4 Assessed
5.5 Assessed
6.1 Assessed
6.2 Assessed
6.5 Assessed
6.6 Assessed
7.1 Assessed
7.2 Assessed
7.3 Assessed
Portfolio Professional Portfolio 1.2 Assessed
2.2 Assessed
2.7 Assessed
3.1 Assessed
3.3 Assessed
3.5 Assessed
Quiz/zes Med+Safe quiz 1.3 Assessed
1.6 Assessed
2.2 Assessed
2.3 Assessed
3.7 Assessed
4.1 Assessed
4.2 Assessed
4.3 Assessed
5.1 Assessed
6.1 Assessed
6.2 Assessed
7.1 Assessed
7.2 Assessed
7.3 Assessed

Directed study hours

A 12-unit course will have total of 150 learning hours which will include directed study hours (including online if required), self-directed learning and completion of assessable tasks. Student workload is calculated at 12.5 learning hours per one unit.

What resources do I need to undertake this course?

Please note: Course information, including specific information of recommended readings, learning activities, resources, weekly readings, etc. are available on the course Canvas site– Please log in as soon as possible.

Prescribed text(s) or course reader

You need regular access to the resource(s) below. Many texts are available as ebooks through the Library at no additional cost.

Required? Author Year Title Edition Publisher
Required Joanne Tollefson,Elspeth Hillman 2024 Clinical Psychomotor Skills 9e n/a Cengage AU
Required Julie Martyn,Mathew Carey,John D. Gatford,Nicole Phillips 2022 Gatford and Phillips' Drug Calculations n/a Elsevier

Specific requirements

To support your success on placement, please read the Student Handbook (available via Sonia). This handbook provides important information, expectations, and procedures that guide your work integrated learning experience.

Your Summative ANSAT assessment will only be finalised once you have completed the allocated placement hours for this course. If you miss any scheduled hours, you will be required to make these up. Your final course grade cannot be released until all placement requirements are satisfactorily completed.

While on placement, you are required to wear the official UniSC nursing/midwifery student uniform. Please also be aware that some placements may require travel, and associated costs are your responsibility.

How are risks managed in this course?

Risk assessments have been performed for all field activities and low to moderate levels of health and safety risk exists. Moderate risks may include working in an Australian bush setting, working with people, working outside normal office hours for example. It is your responsibility to review course material, search online, discuss with lecturers and peers and understand the health and safety risks associated with your specific course of study and to familiarise yourself with the University’s general health and safety principles by reviewing the online induction training for students, and following the instructions of the University staff.

What administrative information is relevant to this course?

Assessment: Academic Integrity

Academic integrity is the ethical standard of university participation. It ensures that students graduate as a result of proving they are competent in their discipline. This is integral in maintaining the value of academic qualifications. Each industry has expectations and standards of the skills and knowledge within that discipline and these are reflected in assessment.

Academic integrity means that you do not engage in any activity that is considered to be academic fraud; including plagiarism, collusion or outsourcing any part of any assessment item to any other person. You are expected to be honest and ethical by completing all work yourself and indicating in your work which ideas and information were developed by you and which were taken from others. You cannot provide your assessment work to others. You are also expected to provide evidence of wide and critical reading, usually by using appropriate academic references.

In order to minimise incidents of academic fraud, this course may require that some of its assessment tasks, when submitted to Canvas, are electronically checked through Turnitin. This software allows for text comparisons to be made between your submitted assessment item and all other work to which Turnitin has access.

Assessment: Additional Requirements

This course will be graded as Pass in a Limited Grade Course (PU) or Fail in a Limited Grade Course (UF) as per clause 5.1.1.3 and 5.1.1.4 of the Grades and Grade Point Average (GPA) - Academic Policy.

In a course eligible to use Limited Grades, all assessment items in that course are marked on a Pass/Fail basis and all assessment tasks are required to be passed for a student to successfully complete the course. Supplementary assessment is not available in courses using Limited Grades.

Assessment: Submission penalties

You must contact your Course Coordinator and provide the required documentation if you require an extension or alternate assessment.

Refer to the Assessment: Courses and Coursework Programs – Procedures.

Links to relevant University policy and procedures

For more information on Academic Learning & Teaching categories including:

  • Assessment: Courses and Coursework Programs
  • Review of Assessment and Final Grades
  • Supplementary Assessment
  • Central Examinations
  • Deferred Examinations
  • Student Conduct
  • Students with a Disability

For more information, visit https://www.usc.edu.au/explore/policies-and-procedures#academic-learning-and-teaching

Student Charter

UniSC is committed to excellence in teaching, research and engagement in an environment that is inclusive, inspiring, safe and respectful. The Student Charter sets out what students can expect from the University, and what in turn is expected of students, to achieve these outcomes.

General Enquiries

For course-specific questions, contact your teaching staff or Course Coordinator.  

For other enquiries or to access support, please contact Student Central: 

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