Nursing - VET study in nursing
VET study in nursing
Careers for VET nursing graduates
Most nursing courses in the VET sector will focus on providing the skills and education required for qualification as an enrolled nurse. Enrolled nurses are associates of registered nurses, and work under their direction and supervision.
They are involved in many facets of patient care and health promotion but, unlike registered nurses, they only implement and do not plan nursing care or administer medications. Enrolled nurses are an important part of health care teams in all kind of settings, including hospitals, community centres, nursing homes and other residential health care organisations.
Although enrolled nurses may end up specialising in one type of care or another because they choose a particular health setting, they do not have the same capacity as registered nurses to adopt a clinical specialty.
Courses and specialisations
VET diploma and advanced diplomas are available for those wanting to enter the occupation at the ‘enrolled’ or ‘division 2’ rather than ‘registered’ (graduate) nurse level. Be aware that certificate courses in the VET sector will usually not be enough to qualify at this level.
Getting in
To get into a course that will lead to an enrolled nurse qualification, you may be required to have completed Year 12 and have a level of skill (Year 10 or senior secondary level) in English and maths. In addition, some courses might require that you are employed in a health care setting for the duration of the course.
Where to study
Courses are mostly offered at TAFE institutes rather than registered training organisations because of the range of facilities required. TAFE institutes are located in all parts of the country.
Pathways
Working your way up the qualifications and career ladder is an increasingly feasible option in nursing.
Pathways into university are especially well defined and accessible in nursing.
For example, you might start your nursing career with a Certificate IV in Nursing. When this is successfully completed, you might want to move on to a Diploma of Nursing. Because you have already completed certificate IV studies, you gain some credit for your diploma. Once you successfully complete this qualification you are recognised as an enrolled nurse.
University courses are then available which allow you to convert this qualification into a bachelor degree in only a couple of years. You are then recognised as a registered nurse.
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