The future regulation of nurse and midwife education

The requirement for student nurses and midwives to spend such a large amount of hours in clinical practice during their training has long been contentious. Critics of this regulation argue that nursing purports to be an evidence-based profession, how can we continue to insist upon such a burden for students, educators and mentors which has no basis in evidence? Others insist a lengthy grounding in clinical practice is essential for students to gain experience and put their academic learning into practice. What’s certain is that the current model is creaking loudly at the seams. Pressures on clinicians make adequately supervising and teaching students challenging; whilst finding placements for increasing numbers is a constant battle. The strain of completing so many hours whilst trying to support themselves is a key contributor to the mental health struggles of many students. The EU directive also covers much more than the required hours in clinical practice. Recognition of prior learning, the length of courses, required skills, access to shortened courses and the ability to include simulation as a method of learning have all been governed by EU directive. All currently remain as directed by the EU but could potentially be changed. The NMC is beginning a scoping review; reviewing various international contexts for the governance of training and education and speaking to organisations such as UNISON to understand our views. There are exciting opportunities here; to establish ...
Source: UNISON meat hygiene - Category: Food Science Authors: Tags: Article Source Type: news