Unit 1: History and development of nursing in Ireland

• The development of the nursing profession in Ireland
• An Bord Altranais
• European Union directives on nursing
• Commission on Nursing
• Developments in nurse education
• Various disciplines and specialists post in nursing
• Code of Practice for nurses

Unit 2: Nursing process

• History of the nursing process
• Stages of the nursing process
• Nursing models
• Roper, Logan, Tierney’s Activities of Living Model of Nursing Assessment of client’s needs using activity of Living Model approach
• Empathy in the caring situation
• Ethics in caring

Unit 3: Observations

• Importance of observations in caring
• General observations
• Accurate measurement and recording of pulse
• Accurate measurement and recording of respiration
• Accurate measurement and recording of temperature
• Accurate measurement and recording of blood pressure
• Accurate measurement and recording of fluid balance

Unit 4: Infection Control

• Background to infection control
• Modes of transmission of infection
• Organisms that cause infection
• Examples of commonly occurring infections
• Signs and symptoms of infection
• Methods in the prevention of the spread of infection

Unit 5: Safety in the work environment

• Safe lifting techniques
• Ensuring a safe environment for clients and staff
• Commonly used nursing terminology and approved medical abbreviations
• Terminology relating to drugs and medicines

Unit 6: Structure and function of the Irish health service

• Background history to the Irish health services
• Department of Health and Children
• New Structures of health service
• Health Service Executive
• Functions of the present day structures
• Members of the primary, secondary and tertiary health care teams
• Functions of the primary, secondary and tertiary teams

Component Certificate in Introduction to Nursing (FETAC Level 5)

Certificate in Introduction to Nursing (The College of Progressive Education)

This is an ideal course for anyone interested in or planning to pursue a nursing career.
The course is also very useful for people working or planning to work as a Health Care Assistant.
For learners who wish to complete the FETAC Healthcare Support (major award DHSXX) ot the Nursing Studies (major award DCHSN) Certificate, this is one of the general modules.

• Be aware of the history and development of the nursing profession
• Learn about the structures and functions of the Health Services in the Republic of Ireland
• Gain an understanding of the nursing process and models of care
• Appreciate the importance of effective communication in caring
• Demonstrate competence in a range of skills

There are no specific entry requirements. Minimum age is 17 years.

Learners must also be capable of undertaking assessment work to Ordinary Level Leaving Certificate standard.

International learners undertaking this course should have confidence in their English language, reading, writing and comprehension skills and have at least a 5 IELTS score or equivalent

It is recommended, though not essential, that learners obtain at least 20 hours work experience during the programme.

Skills Demonstration - 50%

Examination - 50%

FETAC Level 5 Health Support Certificate (DHSXX)

Practical Home Care Skills - FETAC Level 5 Component Certificate

Care Worker

Family support member

 6 months by distance learning and 2 Saturdays