Student Nurse Files

My experience on How to become registered nurse in Australia

2014-01-14T13:07:00.000+11:00

(All information are still under construction)

ATTN: Based on my own experience. Ang mga hakbanging ito ang ginawa ko para makapunta ng Australia at maging rehistradong nurse. Gamitin nyo lang ito as GUIDE. Salamat.

Remember: All choice are expensive and would require a lot of time and effort. Walang madaling paraan sa kahit na anong bansa. Best thing to do is sit down and mag muni-muni (ponder) on which path your willing to take the risk. Please consider the "Pros" & Cons" of all your options.

Do heaps of reading on all online website that will help, email and phone all regulating bodies, university, or any person that will help with your decision.I'm telling you most of them are very accommodation and best of all they reply very promptly and I have done that for years and still doing this until now to achieve my goal :)

THINK, RESEARCH and CONSULT

First (2011), Isang malalim na pag iisip ang ginawa ko para malaman kung ano ba talaga ang gusto ko.

4 Option:

1. Bridging Course w/ 2-5 yrs Nursing Experience - Business Visa
2. AURN License and Hospital Sponsorship - Working Visa.
3. Masteral of Nursing - Student Visa + Working Visa w/o condition.
4. Pre-registration Nursing Degrees - Student Visa + Working Visa w/ Condition.

4.1. Student Visa Solo - Bachelor, Vocational or Technical course.
4.2. Student Visa with family - Bachelor degree or Master Degree.
4.3. Student Visa - Master Course

Answer: 4A

Bridging Course (3-6 months program):

PROS:

- less expensive (tuition ranges from 18-23k AUD for the whole year)
- shorter length of study (1 year)
- don't need to study the basic core subjects again
-50% probability of success in landing a nursing job.

CONS:
-take you a while to be in Australia for a short stay for your Bridging course, then after a while back to Philippines again in search for some company to sponsor you for work (if your lucky).
-You have to passed and meet all assessment criteria (you can only take the exam once). Though there are still some option to be registered like taking the education module.
- Entry requirements varies but usually require a license, related working experience and at least 3 year post secondary studies related to nursing.
- highly competitive with limited assurance landing to nursing job
- will take a while to qualify for either Skilled - Graduate Temporary Visa (subclass 485) or Skilled Independent Residence Visa (subclass 885)

Masteral Degree in Nursing (1 yr program)

PROS:

- less expensive than pre-registration (tuition ranges from 30-40k AUD for the whole year)
- shorter length of study (1-1.5 year)
- don't need to study the basic core subjects again.
-50% probability of success in landing a nursing job.

CONS:
-you be in Australia in less than 2 months.
-Entry requirements varies and do not require related working experience or license. A previous bachelor degree in Nursing is required (apart from English requirements).
- Automatically granted a Working visa with condition to work as AIN, Disability Support and etc while studying.
- you have to passed all subjects and meet all assessment criteria.
-would qualify for either Skilled - Graduate Temporary Visa (subclass 485) or Skilled Independent Residence Visa (subclass 885) once you finish your masteral degree.
-You have to process your registration and make sure to find an agency or someone to sponsor you to stay.

Pre-registered course (2-3 years program):

PROS:
- You be in Australia in less than 2 months.
- Entry requirements varies and do not require related working experience or license. A previous bachelor degree in Nursing can be applied but not required (apart from English requirements).
- Automatically granted a Working visa with condition to work as AIN, Disability Support and etc.
- would qualify for either Skilled - Graduate Temporary Visa (subclass 485) or Skilled Independent Residence Visa (subclass 885) once you finish your degree.
- Qualify to apply for the graduate programs in Australia. (Level 1 RN)
- Some Universities offer a pre-registration course at a Master's degree level.
- stay in Australia for more than 4 yrs multi-entry without worrying about another visa entry.
-75% probability of success in landing a nursing job.

CONS:
ALERT: EXPENSIVE, EXHAUSTIVE, AND UNCERTAIN.

- more expensive (tuition ranges from 18-23k AUD per year averaging 50-60k AUD for the whole degree)
- longer length of study (2 - 3 years) and longer length of stay.
- have to study some of the basic core subjects again.
- you have to passed all subjects and meet all assessment criteria.
- edge in other overseas nurse and can compete with local nurses.

Basically, it all depends on whether you want to stay in Australia after you graduate or not. And if you can shell out more cash for the additional year or not.

I would recommend the 1-year program if you can apply for another visa (e.g. family sponsored or partner visa). Also, you can still choose the 1-year program if you are willing to wait for another 8-12 months for your sponsorship visa (business visa types or skilled sponsored visa) to finish. I am not sure though, if you can lodge for the latter visa types while you are in Australia. Either way, you will still not be able to work during the waiting period.

Regarding tuition fee payments, it varies and would depend on the University's policy. Some require full payment while others would accept bi-semestral or semestral payments. To confirm this, you may want to contact the University you are planning to go to. I've contacted 3 Universities in Sydney, 3 Universities in Queensland, 1 University in Melbourne and 1 National University with campuses both in Sydney and Brisbane. All of the Universities I've contacted are in the metro area as I'm not planning to live in the rural areas.

Enrolled Nursing course is different. It is comparable to LPN or LVN. You can be eligible for enrollment in the Nursing Council or Board if you finish an Enrolled Nursing Diploma (it's never a degree). TAFE offers this course as well as Certificate III (Aged care). The Enrolled Nurse course will take 18 months to finish or 1 1/2 years.

^ http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/gener...ons-inside.htm

If you don't have much money to pay for tuition fee and wanted to get out of the country as soon as possible with minimal risk then go for a Masteral Degree. I suggest get more idea on that, coz I don't have. Then let me know.

Answer: Pre-registration Nursing Degree.

University

Second, Which state in Australia and Which school kaya ang maganda.

State: APHRA

University:

Answer: University of Newcastle - Calm, Serene and Peaceful.

COURSE: BSN

School Administration:
a. Low Upfront Tuition Fee Requirement. - Pre-registration Nursing degree costs varies from one state to another. Yearly tuition ranges from 10-18-23K AUD. That is tuition alone - books and all other materials and uniforms are not yet included.
b. Pre-registered BSN course.
c. Credit Application.
d. Few Document Requirement.
e. Prompt in answering question.
f. Not congested.
g. Application is free of charge.
h. International Student friendly campus

Location - And then you need approximately 15k AUD per year for your accommodation, food, transpo, school materials (including photocopies, books, uniform, etc.), and other miscellaneous things.

a. Friends available
b. Near the beach, mountains and away from flood.
c. Accommodation and food are cheap - A lot of the Universities have accommodation for students. You can choose to stay in their accommodation or you can live out with others. If someone else you know is going to study in the same uni, I suggest you just rent outside. Some accommodation of Unis are catered (meaning you don't have to worry about food, they'll provide it). Sydney accos are pretty much on the high end, Brisbane though is way more cheaper. I'm pretty much familiar with the unis and accommodation prices and stuff in both Sydney and Brisbane as those are my target. I'm not so familiar with Melbourne though.
d. Low cost of daily living.
e. Many walk-ways.

So i started to contact my chosen University and search their website. I spend whole days and weeks reading their website. Course, tuition fees, services and others na makakatulong sakin. Just follow my links to find out how it all started.

Email the University about your intention to study with them.
They will reply to you with this information

First name (as it appears on your passport or identity card)

Last name (as it appears on your passport or identity card)

Date of birth (date/month/year)

Postal address

Country of current residence

Country of citizenship (please state if you are a permanent resident of Australia)

Home telephone number

Mobile / Handphone / Cellphone number

Alternative email addresses

All you need to do is to reply with details of the above question and wait till they get back to you.
If you are planning to go to Australia as soon as possible, you can try applying for the Universities now, and if you're lucky, you can get the Offer within 2-3 weeks from the University. As soon as you get that, apply for the student's visa with the help of IDP with branches in Makati. The student's visa processing will take about 2-3 months. You might still make it for the February entry. If not, the next entry will be July, however, this will still depend if the University has a July entry for that specific course. Usually, there is only one entry per year and that is either January, February or March.

IETLS

Third, IETLS Total score of 7.0 (overall band of 6.5 - 7.0 with no bands less than 6.0 - 7.0 depending on the University policy)

My English examination took me months since I've been juggling as a call center agent, a volunteer at PGH and reviewing at Niners 9.0. It's do or die. Click the link at 7.0 to find out my experience when i took my examination.

N.B IELTS result can be followed up after you submit your application. Some Universities do not require you to have an IELTS exam when you apply. They will advise you later on after assessment of your application if you still need to provide the said exam or not.

The documents you need for the application includes the following:

School Documents

Fourth, School Documents
1. Application Form
2. Transcript of Record (certified true copy)
3. Diploma. (certified true copy)
4. Certificates.
5. English Language Proficiency.
6. High school Certificates.

* All original or certified documents. Ipapa-certify mo ang document mo sa Notary public sa Australia or Justice of Peace or Authorized officer sa Pilipinas (IDP).

*First semester (February) intake each year.

TIP: Application in Australia can be accomplish on your own. Agent or agency is not really necessary. However, if you have cash to burn and feel the need help from a professional then you might asked for consult migration officer regarding your case. There are paid and free assessment. Choose wisely as there are bunch of bogus people who makes a living in taking advantage on people.

Confirmation of Enrollment

Fifth, COE - Confirmation of Enrollment.

Fees varies from state to state and from University to University. But you can expect to pay from 16500 AUD up to 24000 AUD per year. That is tuition alone. To enroll in the course, you would only need to pay for 1 semester's fee. The rest you can pay per sem or bi-sem or annually - it would really depend on the University you are going to enroll at.

Visa Requirements

Sixth, VISA Requirements

1. Medical Test - health check-ups (both chest x-ray and medical)
2. Character Clearance NBI clearance & police clearance for each country you've stayed at for more than 12 months in the past 10 years)
3. IELTS result
4. CoE
5. Health insurance: OSHC (The fee will depend on how long you want the OSHC to be. Can be a few months up to 6 years. It will take approximately 700+ AUD for the whole 2 years.)
6. Proof that you can meet the financial requirements (Air fare, tuition fees, and living expenses) or Family from Australia, Relatives from other country or Yourself - Support

         a. Affidavit of Support of Family (if any)
            b. Passport
            c. Bank Certification
            d. Updated Passbook
            e. Bank Statement
            f. 2 Months Payslip
            g. Australian Federal Police Clearance
            h. Evidence of Relationship
            f. Copy of Passport
            h. Evidence of Visa Status

You wouldn't need to present any financial evidence to the University. However, that will be needed in the application for a students visa. You actually need to provide evidence that have enough money to cover the expenses [Tuition fees (for the whole course), Living expenses (12k AUD) & airfare ticket (roundtrip)]. That is if you are only going on your own; meaning without a spouse or child coming with you. If your family are coming along then you would need to provide more. The financial evidence can come from anyone who will be supporting you or a bank loan or scholarship.

Work

Seventh, ARRIVED IN AUSTRALIA: 2012

AUGUST: Mag apply online ng work: AIN - Assistant Nursing at Mental Aid Care.

The student visa already has a permission to work status. You can only work upon commencement of your course. You are allowed to work for up to 20 hours a week when you have classes. However, on holidays or semestral breaks, you are allowed to work for unlimited hours per week.

The salary would depend on the job that you will get.

UNIVERSITY LIFE:

University workload: My workload is much lighter compared to that in the Philippines. I based this on my workload in my previous Alma mater (OLFU). I have 3 subjects per sem, OLFU have 6-7 per sem.
I'm are only required to go to classes 120-140 hours per semester at UoN, but in OLFU we were required at least 30++ hours per week worth of lectures plus duty of almost 45 hours per week. My clinical placements are really full on and hands on. You will really learn heaps as if your a nursing intern. We do have case study that we need to write which is done by interviewing patients with their consent. The assignments are mostly paperwork like essays and reports. I really think Filipinos will be okay as long as you study how to make case study, grammars and writing portfolio. There is no such thing as severe memorization era, just learn the basic and focus more on your written case study and you will finish with flying colors. No quota in grades all you have to do is to PASSED and that's all.

FIRST YEAR:
- Easiest and adjustment period
SECOND YEAR:
- hardest year

THIRD YEAR:
- getting used with the flow, enjoyed clinical placement.

NEW GRADUATE PROGRAM 2014:
The new graduate program is an opportunity given to each nursing student to hire newly graduate nurse prior to their graduation and registration.

Requirements:

Interview:

Circumstances:
- Level 3 priority

RN REGISTRATION 2014:

1. IELTS/OET - In order to get registered, one of the requirements is to take your IELTS again after your first IELTS examination prior to your admission at Uni.

2. Australia doesn't have any licensure exam so don't worry about it. That is why their Nursing degrees are called pre-registration degrees - specifically those recognized courses by the State Regulating Authorities. If you finish any recognized courses of the relevant State regulating Authority, your registration process will be expedited.

There are two types of pre-registration courses: a 1 year and 3 years program. If you take the 3 years course, sponsorship is not really necessary and you might be eligible to apply for a skilled independent visa (resident) after you graduate and receive your registration from the nurses board. You need to have your credential assessed by ANMC as soon as you receive your registration from the State regulating authority. After which, you will need to lodge your application for Skilled Independent (resident) visa whilst in Australia. You will then be given a bridging visa while your application is being processed. The bridging visa has full work rights. Depending on the bridging visa, you may or may not be able to go in and out of Australia.

If however, you don't meet the other criteria in the visa (e.g. the 1 year related experience while you were in Australia), you can apply for the post-graduate visa which will allow you to stay for another 18 months to 2 years to comply with the requirements for the Skilled Independent Visa.

The Independent visa doesn't need an agency to sponsor you, you apply for it yourself. This is also a resident visa not a business type visa. Resident visas are good for 5 years. You can apply for citizenship after 3-4 years. This however, doesn't apply to the 1 year program as the minimum requirement for both visas is finishing a course for 2 years.

FIRST YEAR RN DIVISION 1: 2015

GOAL: Registered Australian Nurse with Permanent Residence plus skilled qualification - 65 points
Mission accomplished!!!

QUEENSLAND - CAS

2014-01-13T12:15:00.000+11:00

To undergo Queensland's CAS program, you will need first to apply for registration at QNC.

You will be needing their recommendation letter to be able to enroll in the CAS program. Experience is not necessary, however, encouraged. You may or may not be required to have your credentials assessed by ANMC if you don't have any experience.

If you are advised to undergo the CAS program, you will have to decide between the 2 options: Education modules or Challenge Test.

Challenge Test - The Challenge test is much much cheaper however, you need to be really organised and prepared because you can only take it once and will not be given another chance for retake. Meaning if you fail, you're done.

The challenge test has 2 parts: Written Examination and Clinical Examination (1 day in Brisbane).

Part A - (Written Examination) Theory &amp
Part B - (Clinical Examination)

*In order for you to proceed with Part B, you must successfully passed Part A.

*If you fail, they will require you to undergo the Education modules.

Education Modules - Another way and it is more expensive compare to challenge test.

There are 4 Education modules (Theory and Clinical).
Each module is 3 months or 12 weeks in duration.
You can enroll in as many module as you can at a time. However, it is recommended that you enroll in one module at first to check the difficulty level.
If you think you can handle more than 1 module at a time, you can enroll in another module. The Clinical component of the Education Modules is to be practiced in Brisbane for 1 month.

*If you are successful, you will registered. However, if you still fail the Education Modules, you will not be registered and will be referred to take the specific theoretical modules that you need to focus on or take a pre-registered nursing degree.

Now, for the clinical part, if you pass it, you will be eligible for registration. If you are unsuccessful, you will be referred to take to other options like pre-registered nursing degrees.

If you are successful in the Clinical module, you will be registered. You will also be referred

You can only take the Challenge test once.

As for the agency, you may want to check what they offer in their package. I would check for the following:

1. Is the placement fee fixed?

- You should be aware that the Challenge test is way more cheaper than that of the Education modules. As far as I know, the cost of the challenge test will be approximately 1/4 -1/3 of the Education modules' cost. Both pathways will have students go to Queensland for their clinical practice.

2. Will they pay for all the fees needed in the modules or the challenge test?

3. Will they sponsor you or will they provide a sponsor for you?

- How many years will the sponsorship be? (It is important for you to know this as sponsorship is from 0-4 years. That's a wide range.

4. Will they shoulder your expenses in Queensland, most especially accommodation and transport.

- Accommodation and transport is very important as it is expensive. Your food and other allowance usually is not shouldered.

5. Will they help you in obtaining the visit visa you need for your clinical placement?

6. What other fees will they shoulder? (e.g. medical check-ups, POEA, etc.)

Okay, to give you an idea if the assumed "380,000" or approximately 9500 AUD fee is worth it, I'll provide some computations below. Reminder: The fees I'll use are just examples or more or less approximate only.

Assuming that you will take the Education Modules, which is actually more expensive, you will need 902 per module.

Education Modules: 902 x 4 = 3608 AUD

Accommodation for 1 month in Brisbane: 800-1000 AUD

Transpo: 200-400 AUD (give or take as I'm not sure if you'll be living really near your placement or not)

Food (cook at home): 400 AUD

Visa Costs: 100-250 AUD ( I'm not sure if you're going to apply for just a visit visa or an Occupational trainee visa)

Medical Check-ups: 100 - 200 AUD (this is more than enough I'm sure)

Add all those up: more or less 6k AUD only

Airfare's not included but you can expect to pay 800 - 1000 AUD for a round trip ticket.

If they'll shoulder your ticket then that's better

The temporary Business Long Stay Visa (subclass 457) will only cost around 600 AUD

However, if they are going to apply for a Skilled- sponsorship (permanent visa), then it will be ok as it will cost from 2000-5000 AUD.

It is very important to ask all about these things before you sign a contract on any agency. They will tell you flowery words. But you have to be smart enough to research first so that you can ask them the money breakdown and what you'll really be getting from them. You should read carefully the contract too. It is very important to note if you are going to pay any fee if ever you cancel the contract and how much will it be. And what will happen to you if you don't pass the modules or exam. Will you get a refund or not? Also, it's nice to know if you need to pay upfront the 380k or you can pay them in installment depending on the progress of your case.

I hope this helps.

The following links are for Visa purposes. You might want to read more about those.

Skilled - Sponsored (Migrant) Visa (subclass 176)

http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/gener.../176/index.htm

Other Visa options for Nurses

http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/medic...ons-nurses.htm

CQ University Australia handles this kind of test.

WORK: http://www.rcsa.com.au/imis15/RCSAweb

COST

I would give you an estimate only as prices really vary and could increase by the time you finally apply.

CAS Fees:

Written Test: 165 AUD
Clinical Assessment: 475 AUD

Source: http://www.qnc.qld.gov.au/upload/pdf...nt_service.pdf

Education Modules: 902 AUD

Source: http://www.cas.cqu.edu.au/FCWViewer/view.do?page=655

Subtotal:

Challenge test: 640 AUD

Education Modules: 3608 AUD

Brisbane Expenses:Accommodation: 100-120 AUD/week (shared accommodation)

180-250 AUD/week (one bedroom to two bedroom accommodation)

Food: 80-100 AUD/ Week

Electricity & Gas: 20 AUD/week

Phone: 20 AUD/week
Transportation: 20 AUD/Week
Airport pick-up: 100 AUD

N.B. Contact the University for this to verify the price. They may or may not arrange this for you.

Subtotal weekly expenses: 340 AUD (minimum)

Total Monthly expenses: 1360 AUD

Miscellaneous: 500 - 1000 AUD

N.B. The above money is more like an emergency money or shopping money. Can also be used for tours if you choose to avail those during your stay.

Air Fare (roundtrip): 800 - 1000 AUD

N.B. Fare depends on the flight carrier. The quoted price above includes possible taxes and other surcharges.

Subtotal other expenses: 1300 AUD - 2000 AUD

Total Living and miscellaneous expenses: 1640 AUD - 2340 AUD

Visa Expenses: 100 AUD (tourist Visa)

Overall expenses (CAS and Living expenses):

Challenge Test: 3400 AUD - 4100 AUD

Education Modules: 6368 AUD - 7068 AUD

Just a quick note: As far as I know, the agency in Manila will only pay one-way of the air fare and will not pay for the modules. Double check if the agency's rate is really 380k Php or 10k AUD. 4k AUD VS 10k AUD

Hope that helps!

For foreign exchange rates check: http://www.xe.com

Course Overview

The Assessment of Competence program is designed for Australian registered and enrolled nurses who have not practiced within the profession for a period of more than five years but not exceeding 10 years and wish to update their nursing and skills, knowledge and competency in order to return to the workforce. This program is a Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) approved pathway for internationally-qualified nurses to achieve the level of competency and skills required for registration as a nurse by the NMBA.

Participants are oriented to contemporary nursing practice in Australia. The program builds upon participant’s previous knowledge, skills and experience to prepare them to demonstrate safe practice at the entry-to-practice level according to the relevant Australian Nursing and Midwifery Council (ANMC) National Competencies.

The program consists of a theoretical component of 150 hours, comprised of classroom sessions, clinical skills practice and self-directed learning. A further 160 hours of clinical placement is undertaken at various metropolitan and regional participating hospitals.

Learning Outcomes

This program of study is designed to develop specific learning outcomes. Students will:

Understand and achieve standards of practice as set down in the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Council (ANMC) National Competencies for the Registered and Enrolled Nurse.
Demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of political, cultural, social and professional forces which have influenced contemporary nursing in Australia.
Identify the ethical and legal framework required for practice in Australia and demonstrate application of ethical, legal and professional responsibilities related to contemporary nursing practice.
Understand and appreciate the importance of nursing research, critical thinking and reflection to promote contemporary, evidence based nursing practice.
Enhance knowledge base and skills to ensure evidenced based, safe and competent practice in the provision and coordination of care to culturally and linguistically diverse groups in a variety of Australian health care settings.
Demonstrate the principles of comprehensive assessment, care planning and evaluation as the foundation concepts for nursing practice to provide holistic nursing care as a beginning level practitioner in a variety of health care settings compatible with the broad health care needs and goals of Australia's multi-cultural society.
Demonstrate a high-level of confidence and clinical proficiency in carrying out a range of procedures, treatments and interventions that are evidence based and informed by contemporary knowledge and practice.
Collaborate with other health professionals in the provision of health care in a manner which is consistent with the scope of practice and the values, needs and priorities of culturally and linguistically diverse groups.
Use information literacy to support nursing roles that encompass individual responsibility and professional, legal, ethical, social, and political responsibilities.
Undertake professional experience placement to achieve competency in the Australian Nursing & Midwifery Council (ANMC) competencies prescribed for safe and competent care and to successfully gain registration as a nurse in Australia.

Assessment

Assessment is undertaken in both the on-campus and workplace clinical environments. Participants must be successful in each of the on-campus assessments to be eligible to proceed to the clinical component.

To successfully complete the program, participants will be required to:

complete all on campus and professional experience placement hours
complete specified learning activities and be deemed competent in all assessment items
successfully complete the professional experience placement, including competencies relevant to the ANMC National Competencies for a registered or enrolled nurse.

On completion of the program a comprehensive report on each participant’s progression in the program will be forwarded to AHPRA. This report will include a recommendation as to whether or not the participant should be registered.

Admission

Participant must meet all admission requirements and provide documented evidence of following at the time of enrolment.

A valid letter of referral from AHPRA to undertake a Board approved course dated no later than 12 months.
Satisfactory completion of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) with a total score of 7.0 across all bands.
A minimum of one year postgraduate clinical experience.
Evidence of experience of working in a nursing role within the last 12 months (overseas applicants only).
An Australian Federal Police criminal record check within the last 12 months.
Please click here to apply for an Australian Federal Police criminal record check.
A criminal record check from the country of origin for internationally qualified nurses (translated to English).
Evidence of Immunisations in line with the NSW Health Policy Directive PD2011 005 requirements. Visit here for current requirements.
CPR certification and working with children blue card may be required in some states and territories.

Note: Original or certified copies must be supplied on application.

Clinical placements

Every effort will be made to secure a professional experience placement within the time frames indicated for the course. However clinical placements are negotiated by ACN with the health care facility. Progression to professional experience placement is dependent on the availability of placements within the health care facility at the time of the course.
ACN reserves the right to change clinical placements.
All clinical placements must be arranged by ACN. Students are not to arrange their own placement.

More Information

For futher information contact the Student Services Centre on 02 9745 7500.

Note:

This is an NMBA approved program for initial registration in Australia or re-entry to practice in Australia. It is not part of the RTO suite of programs and is offered to both enrolled and registered nurses.

Click here to access the Pathway to Registration.

Click here to access the requirements of NSW Health Policy Directive PD2011 005 in relation to Occupational assessment, screening and vaccination against specified infectious diseases.

TOPICS

Guide for Choosing Your Pathway to Nursing Practice in Australia

Seven contemporary nursing knowledge areas :

1. The Australian Health Care System
2. Contemporary Clinical Knowledge, Nursing Research and Evidence Based Practice
3. Professional Issues in Nursing in Queensland
4. Legal Issues in Nursing
5. Ethical Issues in Nursing
6. Cultural Issues in Nursing
7. Critical Thinking and Clinical Decision Making

The Australian health care system is made up of a number of interdependent components including three levels of government, health care professionals and other health workers, funding bodies and insurers, private health care providers, charitable and religious organisations and community groups.

Some key concepts you will need to understand in order to appreciate how the Australian health care system operates include:

* Health Care Provision - Who is Responsible for What?

* Health Care Funding Arrangements � Public & Private

* Waiting Lists Elective Surgery

* Regulation of Health Professionals

* Health Insurance Medicare

* Managed Care

* Consumer Rights

* Commonwealth,

* State and Local Levels of Government

* Casemix Diagnostic Related Groups

* Health Rights Commission

* Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme

* Primary Health Care

Knowledge required by Queensland Nursing Council if you want to skip the Migrant Bridging Course and just take the Challenge Test.
You will need to know at least:
1. The responsibilities of the Commonwealth Government in funding/providing health care and how this differs from the Queensland Government�s responsibilities.
2. The responsibilities of local government authorities (Councils and Shires) in relation to health care.
3. How health care is funded in Australia.
4. The role that private health care providers, charitable and religious organisations and community providers play in health care in Queensland.
5. The rights of health care consumers.
6. The processes that exist to protect health consumer rights in Queensland.
7. The foundation principles of primary health care.

Pre-registration Nursing Degree in NSW

2014-01-12T15:24:00.000+11:00

University: University of Newcastle
Location: Callaghan
Faculty and School Location: School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health.

Bachelor in Nursing -

The University of Newcastle has provided lots of practical experience. I enjoy the clinical placement as it allows you to develop interpersonal and hands-on nursing skills. It also provides exposure to various aspects and disciplines of nursing, and with each placement my confidence increases as I am able to relate the theory I learn in the classroom to professional practice.

I chose nursing as a career as I liked its diversity and the flexibility it offers to steer my career into different areas. I have always enjoyed learning about the human body so the science aspect of nursing was appealing. I knew it would be a very rewarding career and would be perfectly suited to my personality – I love working and communicating with people. Ultimately, it was the fantastic opportunities to combine travel and work that appealed to me.

All courses include the following two components, resources provided by the Course Coordinator and interactive learning.
The mode of delivery for each of these components will vary according to the site of offer of courses.
Courses offered will be taught face to face, using the on line and CD Based multi media resources to augment teaching. The selection of course components to be taught face to face will be based on sound pedagogical principles (eg communication; counselling skills).

Over the course of the Bachelor of Nursing program, you will complete 800 hours in a range of diverse clinical contexts including, but not limited to, primary health care services, community centres, residential aged care contexts, mental health services and acute care hospitals throughout the Hunter, Central Coast, Mid North Coast and University Department of Rural Health (UDRH) sites.

Graduates of this program are eligible to apply for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia, under the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme administered by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

All International Students enrolled in the program will be provided with an orientation to familiarise them with the rules, expectations, facilities and services offered by the University. Please visit http://www.newcastle.edu.au/students/international/student-support/ to find out more about the support services available to international students.

International students must comply with the University of Newcastle's English language proficiency requirements. All international students admitted to the BN are required to have English language skills at International English Testing Service (IELTS) (Academic) overall band 7, with a minimum score of 6 in each band.

Apply here

Tuition Fee

Program Outline

Credit Transfer

FIRST YEAR: 2012

A: First Semester

NURS1101 - Foundation of Professional Practices 1A (20 units)

Assessment 1: Attend all the Tutorial Preparation - 10%
Assessment 2: Critical Thinking and Writing - 1,500 wc (Red Tree, Think like a nurse & Communication) - 30%
Assessment 3: Essay: WIT - 1,500 wc - 30%
Assessment 4: Professional Portfolio - 1,500 wc - 30%

Fundamentals Of Nursing 3 Vol Set (Aus) + MyNursingKit with eText Kozier & Erb et al Price: $165.67

NURS1102 - Primary Health Care in Australia (10 units)

Assessment 1: Online Tutorial Preparation Quiz - 50Q - 20%
Assessment 2: Sociology Short Answer - 1,500 wc - 40%
Assessment 3: Field Study Oral and Written Report - 1,500wc - 40%
Confidentiality Undertaking Module, Field Study Approval & Evidence of Field study Experience.

Promoting health: The Primary Health Care ApproachTalbot, Price: $88.30

HUBS1406 - Human Bio Science for Nursing and Midwifery (10 units)

Assessment 1:
Assessment 2:

Assessment 3:
Assessment 4:

Ross and Wilson: Anatomy and Physiology. Price: $84.49

B: Second Semester

NURS1201 - Foundation of Professional Practice 1B (20 units)

Assessment 1:
Assessment 2:

Assessment 3:
Assessment 4:

Fundamentals Of Nursing 3 Vol Set (Aus) + MyNursingKit with eText Kozier & Erb et al Price: $165.67

NURS1202 - Clinical Practice 1B (10 units)

Assessment 1:
Assessment 2:

Assessment 3:
Assessment 4:

The Clinical Placement: An Essential Guide for Nursing Students Tracey Levett-Jones. Price: $39.01

HUBS1416 - Advance Human Bio-science (10 units)

Assessment 1:
Assessment 2:

Assessment 3:
Assessment 4:

Visual Anatomy and Physiological with Mastering A & P, Price: 157.71

SECOND YEAR: 2013

A: First Semester

NURS2101 - Foundation of Professional Practices 2A (20 units)

Teaching Method: Clilnical Placement, Online Discussion Group, Clinical Laboratory & Simulation, Lecture and Self Directed Learning.
Mode of Delivery: Distance learning: IT based, Flexible delivery/Student Centered Learning, Internal Mode.
Contact Hours: 240 hrs/semester
                     Lecture - 24 hrs/term (online & face2face)
                     Laboratory - 30 hrs/term
   Tutorial - 6 hrs/wk for 6 wks
                     Clinical Placement - 40 hrs/week for 4 weeks (2 weeks MS & 2 weeks MH)
                     Online Discussion - 2 hrs/week for 4 weeks
                     Self-directed learning - 20 hrs/wk for 6 wks
In order to passed this subject

Submit all assessment items:
Gain total marks of 50% or higher for the course
Achieve mastery of core skill in assessment item description & submitted in hard copy.

               Assessment 1: Online Clinical Reasoning Scenarios & Related Reflections - 1800-2000 wc - 20%
               Assessment 2: Discharge Education Plan - 1800 - 2000 wc - 20%
               Assessment 3: Participation - 10%
               Assessment 4: Intravenous Medication Calculation Quiz -
               Assessment 5: FINAL EXAMINATION - gain a mark of 50% or higher in final exam

TUTORIAL 1:
Fluid and Electrolytes:
http://www.wisc-online.com/objects/ViewObject.aspx?ID=NUR2903
http://www.wisc-online.com/objects/ViewObject.aspx?ID=NUR1203
http://www.wisc-online.com/objects/ViewObject.aspx?ID=NUR7808
http://www.wisc-online.com/objects/ViewObject.aspx?ID=NUR4004

Book:
Medical-Surgical Nursing Critical Thinking in Client Care- Australian Edition Value Pack (Vols 1, 2 & 3) + mynursingkit $165.86

Clinical Reasoning: Learning to Think Like a Nurse $67.12

Clinical Dosage Calculations: For Australian and New Zealand $49.25

The Clinical Placement: An Essential Guide for Nursing Students Tracey Levett-Jones Price: $39.01

NURS2102 - Clinical Practice 2A (10 units)

Teaching Method: Clilnical Placement, Online Discussion Group, Clinical Laboratory & Simulation, Lecture and Self Directed Learning.
Mode of Delivery: Distance learning: IT based, Flexible delivery/Student Centered Learning, Internal Mode.
Contact Hours:
                     Lecture - 2 hrs/term
                     Laboratory - 30 hrs/term
                     Clinical Placement - 40 hrs/week for 4 weeks (2 weeks MS & 2 weeks MH)
                     Online Discussion - 2 hrs/week for 4 weeks
                      Self-directed learning

In order to passed this subject

Submit all assessment items:
Achieve mastery of core skill in assessment item description & submitted in hard copy.

                Assessment 1: Online Discussion Blog - 1,000 wc - 30% (24-Jun)
                Assessment 2: Clinical Portfolio: Part A - 1,250 wc - 35% (1-July)
                Assessment 3: Clinical Portfolio: Part B - 1,250 wc 35% (1-July)
                Assessment 4: Clinical Performance - N/A

Gain an aggregate of 50% or higher for assessment items.
Complete Clinical Lab Prep, Lab hours (30 hrs), & demonstrate satisfactory performance
Complete Total Number of Clinical Placement (160 hrs) and provide evidence of attendance & satisfactory performance

Book:

NURS2103 - Mental Health Professional Practice (10 units)

Assessment 1: Mindfulness in Practice - 2,000 wc - 30%
Assessment 2: Online Blogs - 500-750 - 15%
Assessment 3: Tutorial Preparation & Participation - 5%
Assessment 4: FINAL EXAMINATION - 50%

B: Second Semester

NURS2201 - Foundation of Professional Practice 2B (20 units)

Assessment 1:
Assessment 2:

Assessment 3:
Assessment 4:

NURS2202 - Clinical Practice 2B (10 units)

Assessment 1:
Assessment 2:

Assessment 3:
Assessment 4:

NURS2203 - Health & Illness in the Older Person (10 units)

Assessment 1:
Assessment 2:

Assessment 3:
Assessment 4:

THIRD YEAR: 2014

A: First Semester

NURS3101 - Foundations of Professional Practice 3A (20 units)

Assessment 1:
Assessment 2:

Assessment 3:
Assessment 4:

NURS3102 - Clinical Practice 3A (10 units)

Assessment 1:
Assessment 2:

Assessment 3:
Assessment 4:

NURS3103 - Elective Course

Assessment 1: Mindfulness in Practice - 2,000 wc - 30%
Assessment 2:

Assessment 3:
Assessment 4:

B: Second Semester

NURS3201 - Transition to Professional Practice (20 units)

Assessment 1:
Assessment 2:

Assessment 3:
Assessment 4:

NURS3106 - Leading, Teaching, Mentoring & Clinical Supervision for Health Professionals (10 units)

Assessment 1:
Assessment 2:

Assessment 3:
Assessment 4:

NURS3108 - Directive Course

Assessment 1:
Assessment 2:

Assessment 3:
Assessment 4:

MISSION ACCOMPLISH

NEW GRADUATE PROGRAMS: 2015

VICTORIA - CAS

2013-03-24T13:38:00.000+11:00

Directly applying for Registration in Division 1 at the Nurses Board of Victoria.

1. Fill out and print this form: http://www.nbv.org.au/media/43455/in...tion%20app.pdf

2. IELTS (Academic) result should have at least an overall band score of 7 with scores no less than the ones indicated below:
                   Reading & Listening 6.5, Writing & Speaking 7.0

3. Prepare all other necessary documents before lodging your application which includes the following:

    3a. Evidence of Identity (true copy of Passport or Birth Certificate)
    3b. Certified true copy of Transcript
    3c. Certified true copy of Diploma
    3d. Certificate of initial registration
    3e. Verification of Registration (As far as I know, you will need to go to PRC and ask them to send Nurses Board of Victoria the said certification)
    3f. Work Statement (if applicable)

N.B. The Nurses Board of Victoria does not specifically require one to have relevant nursing experience however if you do have, you are required to provide evidence of this. It does not specifically say if the experience would only be recognised if it is from a certain type of hospital (e.g. tertiary hospital).

   3g. Evidence of Change of Name (if applicable e.g. marriage certificate)
   3h. Enclosed Fee (kindly check the website for the updated fee as this change yearly i think)

4. Submit the application including all the documents needed and the fee.

5. Wait for the Nurses Board of Victoria's decision. It can be either of the following:

    5a. You will be granted registration in Division 1. (Pre-registration in Australia)
    5b. Your application will be denied.
    5c. You will have a conditional offer wherein you will be asked to undergo a bridging program.

RESULT:
Successful completion of the program, you will be eligible for registration.

Unsuccessful then you will not be eligible for registration.

N.B. If your application is unsuccessful, you can be given other options to help you be registered in the said state. This will most probably include taking up any of the recognised courses leading to registration in Division 1.

All about Bridging Course in Australia

2013-01-29T00:35:00.001+11:00

Steps for Competency Assessment Program (CAS)
Page: Under construction

Assessment of Competence Program:
Internationally-qualified Nurses and Re-entry Nurses

The Assessment of Competence program is designed for Australian registered and enrolled nurses who have not practiced within the profession for a period of more than five years and wish to update their nursing and skills, knowledge and competency in order to return to the workforce.

This program is a Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) approved pathway for internationally-qualified nurses to achieve the level of competency and skills that is required for registration as a nurse by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

The program consists of a theoretical component of 150 hours, comprised of classroom sessions, clinical skills practice and self-directed learning. A further 150 hours of professional experience placement* is undertaken at various metropolitan and regional participating hospitals.

First: Know the state you want to apply - Victoria, NSW, Queensland etc.

Second: Apply for registration in that State's Board of Nurses for assessment

Requirements:

Evidence of successful completion of a nursing course, eg: degree
Course Transcript
Evidence of initial License in the place where the course was completed
Evidence of Identification (birth certificate or passport or marriage certificate for name change purposes)
Evidence of competent, licensed nursing practice within the five years prior to the application.
Application fee of A$49.00 and application processing fee of A$109.00

Question:

- Can I apply if I don't have any working experience? To be honest, I'm not sure what the correct information. Some say, you can apply without working experience, while other say you cannot. I choose a different path so its the risk you take. You can confirm on the BON if it is necessary.

-Also, should that working experience be in a tertiary hospital, because that's what i've heard from my friends here? Same answer

-lastly, i need to pass the ielts before i apply, right?? (actually i think i got to retake the test because i got 6.5 in writing) Yes, you have to retake the IELTS. It is very clear that it should be 7.0 in all levels.

Third: if they assessed you as qualified they will invite you to take the bridging course or CAS program

- You will then receive the offer package for it. You will be given 90 days to respond to that and a 30-day extension will be given if you still haven't sent them your confirmation to enroll to the said program.

Fourth: Finally, pass the bridging course then you'll become Aussie RN.

Fifth: Find someone anywhere in Australia that will Sponsor you for working visa (Hospital, Agency, Company)

Here are some:

RCSA

Mission accomplished!!!

My Clinical Placement

2013-01-16T16:13:00.005+11:00


Calvary Mater Newcastle - 2nd '2012

My First Hospital experience start here: I have 2 days to

Day 1:

Aussie vs American English

2012-07-13T13:27:00.004+10:00

Pay --VS-- , salary or wage - total compensation that the employee receive in exchange for the service they perform for their employer.

Heaps --VS-- A lot, big deal - a large number or amout.

Keen --VS-- Enthusiastic (idiomatic modern usage) originally it was wise, brave, sharp & wit or intelligence,

Capsicum --VS-- Bell Pepper -

Whilst --VS-- While

Fairyfloss --VS-- Cotton candy -

Thongs --VS-- Sleepers/Step in

I reckon --VS--I think.

I go to the loo --VS-- I'll go to the toilet

mobile --VS-- Cellphone

Petrol --VS-- Gas

Ad or Advertisement (ad break) --VS-- Commercial (commercial break)

Bettel --VS-- Bug
Bogan --VS-- Trailer trash

Bum --VS-- Butt

Bloke --VS-- guy

Booking --VS-- reservation
Bushfire --VS-- Forest Fire, wildfire
Bushwalk/bushwalking --VS-- hike/hiking
Bucket --VS-- pail
Caretaker --VS-- Janitor

CBD (Central Business District) --VS-- Downtown
Chemist shop --VS-- Drug store
Dinner suit or black tie or tails --VS-- tux
Drawing pins --VS-- thumb tacks
Flat or unit --VS-- apartment
Footpath, pavement --VS-- sidewalk
Forthnightly --VS-- biweekly
Friends or mates --VS-- buddies
Fringe --VS-- bangs
Greeting card --VS-- note card
Grid iron --VS-- american football
Ground floor --VS-- first floor
Holiday --VS-- vacation
hang around together --VS-- hang out together

Jug --VS-- pitcher
lift --VS-- elevator
Medicine --VS-- drugs
Mozzy --VS-- mosquito
Newsagency --VS-- newstand
Noticeboard --VS-- bulletin board
Pay Tv --VS-- Cable tv
Pegs --VS-- clothes pins
Pissed --VS-- drunk
Primary school --VS-- elementary school
Postcode --VS-- zipcode

Queue --VS-- line
Reception --VS-- lobby
Resign --VS-- quit
rubber --VS-- eraser
rubbish bin --VS-- trash can or garbage can
shopping centre --VS-- shopping mall
skip --VS-- dumpster
sunbake --VS-- sunbathe
survey --VS-- poll

tick (the box) --VS-- check (the box)
Track --VS-- Trail
Trolley --VS-- cart
Tap --VS-- faucet
Torch --VS-- flashlight
Wardrobe --VS-- closet
Whinge --VS-- complain
000 --VS-- 911
Tele --VS-- Television.

Cutlery --VS-- flatware

Lollies or sweets --VS-- candy

Mince --VS-- ground meat

prawns --VS-- shrimp

Sauce --VS-- ketsup

Soft drinks --VS-- soda

takeaway --VS-- take out or to go
Windscreen --VS-- windshield
underground railway --VS-- subway
Freeway --VS-- expressway

I'm pretty sure

I was under the impression

It doesn't bother me or can't be bothered

I feel sick in my stomach

You know what i mean

Fair enough

Spastic

What a cheapskate

You're a dip stick - so stupid

Thanks for touching base or ringing to touch base

************************************* **********************************

Stigma - sign or branding mark

Prejudice - refer to preconceived judgments toward people or a person

Arrogance - Having or displaying a sense of overbearing self-worth or self-importance. Marked by or arising from a feeling or assumption of one's superiority toward others: an arrogant contempt for the weak.

Ambiguous - double meaning or more on more interpretation, unclear or inexact because of the choice or alternative.

Discrimination - is a state of mind, this mindset has the disposition of looking down on someone who you view as lower then yourself for color, race, or religion.

Racist - is someone who believes that they are superior because of their race and have prejudices against other on that belief, they are normally antagonistic towards others as a result of their belief in being superior.

Stereotype - is a form of prejudice that can form damaging images of people because of a particular characteristic without having any knowledge of the person or general view about a group of people and believe there traits are all the same, then you are stereotyping.

Antagonistic - indicating opposition or resistance

Boring - Dull: meaning lack of excitement or interest.

Apparently

************************************ ************************************

I hope I'm not Intruding?

"That's a nice handbag, where did you get it?" This lets the handbag owner talk about the day that they went shopping and all this funny stuff happened, as opposed to: "I like your handbag!" "Thank you." (The end.)

"What an amazing buffet! Which is your favorite dish?" Asking an opinion is especially useful, as it can be followed up with the classic open-ended question: “Why?”

"Fantastic turnout! Which of the lecturers is your favorite?"

"I love your costume. Which are your favorite sci-fi movies?"

Why not educate yourself?

2012-07-06T16:42:00.000+10:00

Study and earn a certificate online for free.

1. Prescription Drug Abuse

2. Hand washing certificate -

3. Privacy Training

other training program

http://nswhealth.moodle.com.au/

Work checklist

2012-07-06T14:04:00.000+10:00

1. Before I start looking for job.

Permission to work.
Understand working condition of your Student Visa.
Contact DIAC on 13 18 81 or visit www.immi.gov.au
File for TFN number - to avoid paying the highest rate of tax you should give your employer your TFN. For information phone ATO on 13 28 61 or visit www.ato.gov.au

2. My Entitlements

Minimum rate of pay.
Entitled to penalty rates - nighshift, holidays and weekends.
Minimum number of hours per shift i can rostered and paid for
allowance for doing certain task.
check NES (National Employment Standards) apply mostly on casual jobs.

3. Full Time - Part Time and Casual

Full time - 38 hours a week + benefits (annual leave)
Part-time - less hours but receive same benefits which are calculated on a proportionate or pro rata basis
Casual employees - Hourly or daily basis but normally higher base pay 3. Full Time - Part Time and Casual

4. Working Rights

Scholarship for Filipinos

2012-07-06T12:45:00.000+10:00

I've compile financial aid that will help you get here.

A. Scholarship in Philippines

TESDA - to all former Tesda scholars that i know. I'm not sure if this will still apply to you so kindly pa check nalang ng details.

Nestle MBA scholarship - this is for all my schoolmate at PUPT who took management degree.

B. Scholarship in Australia and New Zealand.

1. Australian Aid - Is one leading scholarships available to all developing country including Philippines. The Developing Awards system has been divided to 5 scholarship grants. To determine your eligibility click the link bellow.

2. Australian Awards - One of Australian agency that award a yearly scholarship for Filipino who wanted to study and earn a degree here in Australia.

Endeavour Awards - Download documents here for qualification.

3. Australian Awards - One of Australian agency that award a yearly scholarship for Filipino who wanted to study and earn a degree here in Australia.

4. New Zealand Aid program - design for filipino who wanted to gain higher education in New Zealand.

5. Commemorative Fellowship in Australia - most applicant are assign to Queensland.

C. Scholarship in Europe

1. University of Westminster - offers international scholarships awarded to full-time Masters degree students that will study at University of Westminster in United Kingdom.

2. Belgium Scholarship - offers filipino the chance to study masteral degree.

D. Other Sources.

1. Filipino scholar

Reminder: I will try to update this page for any other available scholarship for Filipino specially for next coming year 2014. Kindly check their website for further information.

Information is Power (under construction)

2012-07-03T17:43:00.001+10:00

It's not the end of the world for Filipino Nurses. After graduating as a Nurse, getting your license as a Registered Nurse, completing all the certification like IVT, ECG, BSL etc. What's next? Get a volunteer job and what? I'm stuck...need help.

Check out list of website that i put together as time goes by to assist nursing student and nurses to move forward, movitate and empower. Your dream doesn't stop there.

University of Newcastle

Personal Nursing Student

Working while Studying -

RESEARCH

1. CINAHL
2. INTERNURSE
3. JONNA BRIDGE
4. ENDNOTE

Filipino Nurses

Australian Nurses

COPY from http://www.rncentral.com/nursing-library/careplans/100_best_blogs_for_nursing_students
General
These blogs can be a great place to look for general news and views on nursing and healthcare professions.

Nurse Ratched's Place: Check out this blog for humorous commentary, insights into what makes a good nurse, and tales of the daily trials and tribulations that you might face as you go into the medical field.
Health and Nursing Issues Australia: You may not be starting a nursing career in Australia, but that doesn't mean you can't find some relevant and helpful information in this health care blog.
ImpactedEDNurse: Ian Miller is a nurse working in an Australian emergency room and his blog offers insights, articles and personal reflections on his experiences.
NurseZone: You can start your own blog on this site or read one of the numerous nurse blogs it's home to.
HealthcarePOV: Here you'll find blog posts that answer questions, give advice and share opinions about the latest going ons in the nursing field.
In Our Own Words: This blog focuses on highlighting nurses who have blogs, discussing issues of technology in healthcare and sharing interesting and important articles for nurses.
NurseReview.org: While this site was created with Philippine nurses in mind, it contains information on topics like passing nursing exams that can be helpful for nurses around the world.
Ultimate Nurse.com: Ultimate Nurse is home to numerous nursing blogs that can be a great place to find the latest news and views on the nursing community.
Nursing Scrubs: You can buy fun and functional new nursing scrubs on this site or check out the blog for updates on news in the nursing world.
Evidence Based Nursing: St. Joseph Hospital in California maintains this blog which details the research they're undertaking so you can stay ahead of the curve.
NurseConnect: This site features a collection of blogs from nursing professionals that will give you numerous perspectives on what it's really like being a nurse.
RNSpeak!: On this site you'll find posts that range from literature reviews to advice for new nursing graduates.
Online Nursing: Get the latest updates on news on nursing from this blog.

Student Nurses
Read about the trials and tribulations of your fellow nursing students in these insightful and sometimes humorous blogs.

YKYW - Nursing Student Blog: This nursing student blogs about her crazy life as she works her way slowly towards becoming a nurse.
Head Nurse: This blog isn't written by a nursing student but offers loads of helpful advice and guidance for those who are in nursing school to make clinicals, exams and everyday life easier.
Becoming a Nurse: Check out this blog to read about the story of one woman who decided to change careers from working in IT to working as a nurse.
Life of a Male Nursing Student: You male nurses aren't alone out there as this blog of a male nursing student demonstrates. You'll find posts that document his experiences with everything from buying books and paying tuition to preparing for school.
RN Someday: Check out this blog to read about the day to day life of a student who has gone back to school to change careers and become an RN.
Wounded Healer: This blog is home to yet another nursing student who's making the transition from being a computer geek to working with patients. It includes some humorous and fun posts and vlogs.
I Am a Student Nurse Blog: Follow along as this young nursing student goes through year-by-year to get his nursing degree.
REBIRTH: Those interested in obstetrics will appreciate this blog. It's written by a woman who works in labor and delivery ward and is currently working towards getting certification in nurse midwifery.
N is for... Nurse (someday): Give this blog a read to find interesting and sometimes entertaining stories about this blogger's path to becoming a labor and delivery nurse.
Student Nurses' Notes: Check out this site to find interesting articles like "5 Ways to Reduce Nursing Stress" and "Stopping Insomnia".
From Cash Flow to Catheters: Healthcare POV hosts this blog by William Keane, a former e-commerce businessman who is working towards becoming an RN.
Diary of a Nursing Student: This nursing student posts interesting stories about her nursing school career that are meant to inspire and motivate others in the field.
UK Student Nurse: Take a hop across the pond and read about what it's like being a nursing student in the UK in this blog.
How I Spent My Nursing Education: Here you'll find random facts, personal commentary and shared experiences about nursing school and life in general.
Brain Scramble: As this nursing student nears completion on her degree, read about her experiences good and bad with nursing school.
Practicing Nurses
Get an idea of what being a nurse will really be like in these great blogs.
code blog: tales of a nurse: This blog is home to health care stories from the main blogger as well as nurses working all over the nation.
about a nurse: Check out this nurse's blog for stories straight from a medical-surgical telemetry unit.
PixelRN: Blogger and nurse Beth Anderson discusses issues on what nursing really is and provides some advice and assistance to other nurses who'd like to start blogging.
A Place I Call Home: Follow the adventures of a big city nurse who has chosen to work in a small town through the posts in this blog.
Chrysalis Angel: Read commentary on modern issues, personal life and nursing on this blog by a former EMT and nurse.
Digital Doorway: Keith, a registered nurse in New England, shares his thoughts on nursing, healthcare, chronic illnesses and much more in this blog.
It shouldn't happen in health care: Stop by this site for a laugh, as it collects humorous stories from people who work in health care.
First Do No Harm: Keep up with this busy nurse and read her sometimes sad sometimes entertaining stories of patient interactions.
The Nurse Practitioner's Place: Those thinking of pursuing a career as a nurse practitioner may want to check out this blog for the latest news and information on the field.
talking RN: Read about life in the ICU in the posts provided by this blogger, including everything from organ transplants to dealing with case management.
nurse at small: A nurse at a large teaching hospital maintains this blog and shares her experiences working with patients that are sometimes challenging but always interesting.
Canuck Nurse: This Canadian nurse blogs about everyday life as well as dealing with courses, working and more.
Thoughts from the Night Shift: Check out this blog to learn a little bit more about just what it takes to be an ER trauma nurse.

Specialty Fields
If you're thinking of going into a nursing specialty, take a look at one of these blogs to learn the ins and outs of what you'll be doing once you're employed.

Emergiblog: Here you can find posts that will expose you to the ups and downs of life as an ER nurse.
Crass-Pollination: An ER Blog: This ER nurse loves her job and it shows in the posts about it that are often humorous and upbeat.
Evidence-Based Nursing and Midwifery: Check out this blog for the latest in research and developments in nursing and midwifery.
OncRN: Being an oncology nurse is often a difficult job and this blogger shares both the good and the bad in this blog.
At Your Cervix: Those who are considering a specialization in labor and delivery can learn more about it from this blog, as well as read personal posts about weight loss and family and see photos.
ER RN: Stories in this blog chronicle the funny, scary and hectic stories in the life of one ER nurse.
Madness: Tales of an Emergency Room Nurse: If you're looking for a challenging career in nursing, follow in the footsteps of this nurse and blogger who works in an inner city ER.
School Nurse Jack: This blogger is both a school nurse and a student so you can get advice and information on her experiences in both things and more.
nighttimenursing: Working the night shift isn't for everyone and you can help determine if it's for you with some insight from this blog by a night shift critical care nurse.
Rantings of a LTC Nurse: If you think that long term care nursing may be the career for you, give this blog a read for some insider knowledge on the field.
Nurse Anesthetist: Check out this blog for the latest news and views on what's going on with nurse anesthesiology.
Nurse Sean: This nurse works in the ICU and shares his experiences as well as tips on becoming a better nurse.

Organizations and Associations
These nursing organizations' blogs can be a great place to get information and assistance on a variety of issues.

Guaranteed Healthcare Blog: This organization wants to help Americans get guaranteed healthcare. You can read about their mission and news about health care on their blog.
The National Nurse: The National Nursing Network Organization handles this blog which can give you the latest updates on what they're up to and how you can get involved in nursing issues.
CDNA Blog: This blog is home to the Community District Nursing Association, a nursing organization based out of the UK. You'll find news and updates on their blog.
American Psychiatric Nurses Association: While not an official blog from the APNA, this blog can provide you with some news and information that deals with psychiatric nursing.
ANA Nurse Space: You'll need a membership with the American Nurses Association to view this blog, but it's chock full of helpful information on the latest in nursing.

College Student
Some of these blogs are geared specifically at nursing students, while others provide help and support for college students in general.

Nursing School Blog: You'll find news and information on everything you wanted to know about nursing school on this blog from funding to developments in training.
My Nursing Degree: There's a serious shortage of nurses nationwide and you can learn how you can be most effective in your nursing career and find a good nursing school through this blog.
Dear Nurses: This blog focuses on providing nurses, students and professionals alike, on ways they can improve their clinical skills, building communication skills and more.
What School Doesn't Teach About Being a Nurse Practitioner: Find out what your education may not be telling you about the reality of being a nurse practitioner so you'll know what to expect when you graduate.
The Makings of a Nurse: This student nurse took a long and winding path to a career in nursing but shares her thoughts and ideas on managing it all in her blog.
I Am a Nursing Student: Want to know what to expect through your journey to become a nurse? This blogger will take you through getting a BSN degree and finally passing the exams to become a nurse.
College v2: Stay on the cutting edge of what colleges are up to these days from tips on eBay to whether or not you should take advanced placement courses in high school.
The Positivity Blog: Learn to take even the worst days in stride with some helpful articles and advice that this blog provides to readers.
Today Is That Day: Look on the bright side with some positive thinking and action advice from this blog.

Medical
Give these blogs a read to find information about what the daily lives of other medical professionals entail and the health care profession in general.

Blogborygmi: Share the pain of working to become a health care provider through the blog of this emergency medicine resident.
GruntDoc: This emergency care physician in Texas shares his experiences working in the ER and some amusing and interesting commentary on a variety of topics.
The Junior Doctor: Check out this blog for the day to day trials of a doctor in training in the UK.
PharmaGossip: Learn what's going on in the world of big pharmaceutical companies so you can stay ahead of the curve.
Health 2.0: Stay on the cutting edge of medicine and technology with some help from this blog focused on web-based and futuristic health tools for patients and medical professionals.
The Health Care Blog: Find the latest news on what's going on in the world of health care at large in this well-written blog.
Doctor Anonymous: If you prefer video blogs to the written kind this blog will cater to your needs. You'll find frequent posts that comment on the state of medicine and medical practice. Geared more towards doctors, but nurses can find interesting information as well.
Surgeonsblog: This well-written and engaging blog is full of stories from a surgeon's perspective of his career, patients and goings on through the years.
NHS Blog Doctor: Check out this blog for information and insight into the triumphs and missteps of the British National Health Service.
From Medskool: Medical school isn't meant to be easy, but you can ride along on this blogger's journey through it all on this site.

Travel Nursing
Travel nursing is becoming an increasing popular option for new nursing graduates and seasoned professionals alike. Find out what it's all about in these blogs.

Travel Nurse Aim: This mother and nurse enjoys her career as a travel nurse and can provide you with some helpful and positive advice about the field.
Travel Nursing Blogs: Check out this site to read dozens of blogs written by nurses currently working in the field.
The Travel Nurse: This travel nurse loves her job and shares her experiences traveling and working across the country with her husband.
Travel Nursing News Feed: Find out what is going on in the field of travel nursing by giving this blog a read now and then.
Have RN, Will Travel: Here you'll find shared experiences, advice, and some humorous commentary on the field of travel nursing.
Highway Hypodermics: Find news and information in this blog that can help you make the leap into a travel nursing career.
I Love Travel Nursing: Check out this blog for everything you'll need to get started in travel nursing from personal accounts to travel nursing agencies.
Ask Conrad: Have a question about travel nursing? Send it in to this site and get your answers posted in this blog.
Travel Nurse Source: Here you'll get advice and information on everything from tax break associated with travel nursing to commentary on the nurse shortage.
Try Travel Nursing: This blog is intended to give you some advice on travel nursing. It can also be a good source of information on choosing a specialty within the nursing field.

Jobs
Give yourself a leg up in finding a job by perusing the job offerings and advice posted on these sites.

The NJO Blog: This blog will tell you how to manage a nursing job when you get one, how to study for exams and the pros and cons you'll find working as a nurse.
The Nursing Job Bank: Check this blog regularly to get access to postings of nursing jobs all over the country.
Nursing Job a Day: Each day this site posts another nursing job. Browse through them to see if anything suits your experience or location.
Campus RN Job Blog: Campus RN provides loads of resources of nursing students and the blog can be a valuable way to learn about hospitals and potential jobs.
Nursing Job Network: Filipino nurses can find numerous job openings listed on this site.
Nursing Job World: This infrequently posted on blog gives some headlines on what's going on with careers in the nursing field.

Miscellaneous
Here are a few other great blogs to help you network, get a laugh, and learn about your profession.

Mediblogopathy: This site is a wonderful place to find blogs on a huge range of medical topics from medical students to registered nursing.
Nursing Assistant Resources On the Web: Those who've decided they want to be a nurse's assistant instead of a nurse or just want to learn more about what the lives of their CNAs are like can check out this helpful blog.
Death Maiden: Dealing with death and dying is one of the hardest things nurses will face. This blog covers one nurse's personal experiences and thoughts on the matter.
Disappearing John RN: Here you'll find frequent posts on the nursing profession as well as information about this nurse who lost loads of weight and is on his way to a happier healthier career.
Clinical Cases and Images: This blog is a great place to learn about interesting clinical cases and can be a useful supplement to your own clinical work.
My 2 Cents: Check out this blog from commentary on the ethical, legal and and professional issues that you will face as a nurse.
Medical Jokes, Cartoons and Videos: The stress of nursing school getting you down? Check out this site to find some medically themed humor and laughs to get you through the day.

IETLS Experience (on going)

2012-04-12T09:44:00.000+10:00

They say the first thing that you need to find out if you wanted to go outside the country to take an English examination. I’ve been thinking of IELTS, TOELF and other English exam but I don’t have any knowledge of any of them and i don’t even know how things work. So I decided to do some research and find out.
I started looking at this.
1. http://www.ielts.org/
2. 33
3. 33
4. 33
5. 99

Here is my research:
Why i choose IETLS rather than TOELF and other English examination?
It’s common, its most people choose,
So what I did was apply IELTS and passed my application form to my Review Centres (9.0 Niners). I fill up the form.

Day Zero - What to bring

2012-03-25T19:31:00.003+11:00

First things first, don't forget all your paper work. You can forgot you favorite pajama or towel but not your documents. It should be ready and in one folder or envelope. So have them handy and easily accessible so you won't have any delays at the immigration boot in the Airport.

DOCUMENTS

1. Passport.
2. Student Visa Letter.
3. Letter offer.
4. Overseas student confirmation of enrollment.
5. Receipt of tuition fees/payment.
6. Certified copies of academic qualification.
7. International English Language Test System (IELTS - English Proficiency).
8. 145 Page Detailed Course outline .
9. Evidence of Fund/Bank Statement.
10. Identification Card.
11. English Translation of Vaccination Records

Write this on a piece of paper.

Telephone # of International Student Support Team and University Security Office.

Instruction on how to get from Sydney Airport to Newcastle. Check google maps.

Telephone # of Transport/Accommodation.

Accommodation Address and Rental or Character References.

2. Money
Make sure you have enough funds to support you when first arrive in Australia.

You can bring cash - ($500 Aud cash and $1000 Aud Travelers Check)
Plenty of ATM machine to withdraw money at the airport and throughout the major cities. Remember that your bank card you can access internationally like Visa, Mastercard, etc.

3. Cloths
Check what climate of your chosen campus will be like. Newcastle is a place where they have winter, summer, spring and autumm. Make sure you have:

3 Pajamas
3 Jumper (Jacket)
1 Coats
5 Singlet (Sando)
Undergarments
3 Shorts
etc (List will be updated soon).

Of course, you will be able to find clothing at Charlestown Square, Westfield & Kotara Homemakers (one of the biggest shopping center in Newcastle).

I also brought some Philippine product like:

Shampoo
Lip gloss and make up.
Soap
2 Bottle of Tanduay Alcohol

4. Overseas Health Cover.
You need to have this done before you arrived and IDP will help you out on how to apply. I only got my OSHC card when i arrived in the Australia and when my semester is starting. This is one of the requirement in UoN. I used this when i had to continue the remaining vaccination i need to complete my placement. I don't have to pay for any doctors fee and probably lower down the expenses if i get ill.

5. Arrival and Homestay.
Upon arrival I got pick up by friends from Sydney Airport to Newcastle. I stay at a Homestay which I organised on my own. UoN have their own Campus Houses and homestay which they can organised with you. You can also look for your own place to stay online before you arrived but you have to make sure its a legitimate place. Seek assistance from your University or check online as I don't have much problem when upon my arrival and a place to stay.

6. Bridging Course.
There are bridging course available for Local and International Student.

Writing Academic Essay
Academic Survival Skills

7. Orientation.

Remember:

Your Airline Luggage Allowance (25 kg at Philippine Airlines).

Read the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Services on what you can and can't bring to Australia.

All kind of Food, Animal Products or probably any living things are not allowed except yourself when you check in.

Purpose of Urinary Catheterization

2008-08-31T04:52:00.001+10:00

"Papa" at "Rome" is in need of Urinary Catheterization.
P	rovide bladder irrigation.
A	ccurately measure urine output for critically ill patient
P	revent urin from contacting incision.
A	ssist amount of residual urine.
@	llow/instill medication @ bladder.
R	elieve discomport due to bladder distention.
O	btain urine specimen.
M	anage urinary incontinence.
E	mpty bladder completely prior to surgery.

Tanner's Sexual Development

2008-08-30T03:23:00.001+10:00

FEMALE
T	Thelarche
A	Adrenarche
M	Menarche
O	Ovulation


MALE
W	Weight Increase
W	Testes Loose
A	Adrenarche
V	Voice Change
P	Penis Enlarge
H	Height Increase
S	Spermatogenesis

Division of Female Pelvis

2008-08-30T03:11:00.001+10:00

	Anterior - Posterior	Transverse	Oblique
I-nlet	11	13	12
C-avity	12	12	12
O-utlet	13	11	12