PGDIPDN Apprentice Review

i am a community nurse visiting house bound patients under the GP practices linked to our community nursing team. i check blood sugars and administer insulins, clexane injections, all types of wound care, catheter care, palliative and end of life care. ordering dressings and pressure relieving equipment, organising MDT's and setting up plan of care for the patients

yes i have new learnt new skills and have also developed my existing skills. i have learnt how to holistically complete a risk assessment for a complex patient. complete CHC funding application and fast track patient for end of life care. i have improved my verbal and non verbal communication skills

i struggled with the academic side of the programme as i had been out of education for a long time but as the programme progressed i was able to catch up with study skills required to pass my assignments. the placement has been challenging due to shortness of staff and i have not always been supernumerary and have worked as a full time staff member

induction was provided by university and the placement organisation. In theory the programme is very well organised but in practice it has many flaws due to shortness of staff at the organisation where you are in placement. there is plenty of support from university and the placement organisation. placement organisation does not have enough mentors through sickness and changing of job roles.

i could receive more support from my manager and mentor but again due to shortness of staff i am left to do my own work. i would like to work with HR as part of my placement, unfortunately i have not had the opportunity to do so yet but hoping this will happen soon.

i have had lots of support from my tutor and the university to get me back to level of writing required for me to pass my assignments at level seven. i have enjoyed my time at university both on line and face to face sessions. i have been thoroughly guided to work through my problems

my training has allowed me to carry out holistic assessments of the patients looking at the bigger picture. i have definitely learnt more about my profession attending the university and putting what i have learnt in practice. i am more clear on my job role and feel i will progress further.

unfortunately there are no extra- curricular activities at my placement organisation. it is too busy even to carryout the essential visits required on a daily basis. i try to go for a walk after i have finished work but most of the time i am to tired to do any social activity.

Yes

it is still the best place to work and gives to job satisfaction.

the application process is quite through and the interviews are very daunting but please don not be put off as once you are at the interview you will be welcomed and made comfortable. community nursing is very rewarding if you are comfortable working on your own as it is mainly a lone worker job.