Nursing and Midwifery GradStart Orientation Manual 2022

Contents

Welcome 3

Expectations and Professional Behaviour 3

Standards of Practice 3

Sydney Local Health District GradStart Program 4

Program Outline 5

‘Getting Started’ 6

Nursing Orientation 6

Supernumerary Orientation 7

Supernumerary Day 1 8

Supernumerary Day 2 9

Supernumerary Days 3 and 4 10

Facilitated Study Days 11

Day 1: Skills for Clinical Practice 11

Day 2: Skills for Clinical Practice 11

Day 3: Communication Workshop 11

Day 4: Arrest and Resuscitation Workshop and Professional Development 11

Debrief Sessions 12

Provision of Annual Leave 12

Clinical Rotations 12

Performance Development Review 12

The role of your Nursing Unit Manager (NUM) 13

The role of your Clinical Nurse Educator (CNE) 13

The GradStart Coordinators (GNC) 13

Key Contacts 14

Professional Appearance 15

Place uniform orders 15

Mandatory Training 16

Important Numbers 18

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS) 19

Welcome to Sydney Local Health District Nursing and Midwifery Services

Our experienced team will support you to build on the foundations of your university studies to a nursing or midwifery career filled with possibilities.

Our supported and facilitated program will give you opportunities to work across a range of clinical specialties to develop and consolidate your skills, knowledge and practice.

Sydney, is your Local Health District

1

Expectations and Professional Behaviour

In Sydney Local Health District we are committed to providing the best patient-centred health services possible. As registered nurses (RN’s) it is your responsibility to maintain professional standards, think critically and work within your scope of practice at all times.

You should ensure you are familiar with local policies and procedures, escalate and seek assistance where appropriate.

Providing care with a patient and family centred focus is a fundamental value of all nurses. It is expected that all staff working within the district will demonstrate compassion, empathy and respect to all patients, carers and colleagues.

All nursing staff have a professional responsibility to work within a legal and ethical framework.

You will work within a multidisciplinary team and demonstrate competence in the provision of person-centred care.

You are accountable in providing and delegating nursing care, to collaborate and consult with healthcare recipients, their families and community as well as other health professionals to plan, implement and evaluate integrated care that optimises outcomes for recipients and the systems of care.

For more information on registered nurses standards of practice: www.nursingmidwiferyboard.gov.au/Codes-Guidelines-Statements/Professional-standards.aspx

Welcome

Sydney Local Health District prides itself on delivering excellent healthcare services, world leading research, high quality education, and leadership in clinical care. All people in our community regardless of cultural or socio-economic background, sexuality or gender identity are accepted, welcomed and valued.

Our Directors of Nursing, Nursing and Midwifery Unit Managers and other nurse and midwifery leaders are key people who are charged with the responsibility of overseeing the highest standard of care and professional conduct, they are there to support you in your practice and in your professional development. It is through our commitment to Nursing and Midwifery excellence that we aim to achieve our vision;

An Extraordinary Profession, Leading Extraordinary Care.

Sydney Local Health District is delighted to be able to support you over the next twelve months. The GradStart Program is designed to support you through a period of transition to professional practice. It is recognised that the first three to six months is the most challenging period in transition from student to Registered Nurse. The District understands that over the next twelve months you will require support as you further develop your clinical skills, knowledge and confidence and apply them in the clinical setting.

We hope you find your nursing career path with us fulfilling as well as exciting and that your expectations and your professional learning and development needs are met.

Ivanka Komusanac Director of Nursing and Midwifery Services Sydney Local Health District

2 3GradStart Orientation Manual 2022Nursing and Midwifery Services Sydney Local Health District

https://www.nursingmidwiferyboard.gov.au/Codes-Guidelines-Statements/Professional-standards.aspxhttps://www.nursingmidwiferyboard.gov.au/Codes-Guidelines-Statements/Professional-standards.aspx

Elements Venue Objective

Getting Started

Virtual orientation

All new employees attend corporate/facility orientation.

Nursing Orientation

Facility Hospital

Four days are allocated for nursing orientation. It includes an introduction to the twelve month program eMR2 and eMeds training, Basic Life Support Assessments, Manual Handling, Violence Prevention and Management (VPM) and Respecting the Difference (RTD).

Super- numerary Shifts

Facility Hospital

Six supernumerary days are allocated across two rotations. Supernumerary shifts include ward orientation, roles and responsibilities of the registered nurse in the unit and skills accreditation

Study DaysFacility Hospital

Four structured educational support days reinforcing relevant clinical knowledge and skills for professional development

Our supported and facilitated program will give you opportunities to work across a range of clinical specialties to develop and consolidate your skills, knowledge and practice.

Sydney Local Health District GradStart Program

The District’s GradStart Program is a twelve month rotational program, designed to assist graduate nurses (GN’s) in their transition to professional practice. During the program you will undertake two, six month clinical rotations and participate in structured education support days, unit orientation and practice clinical skills, clinical supervision and debriefing.

This Orientation Manual has been developed for the Graduate Nurses working at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Canterbury and Balmain Hospital.

It will provide an overview of the program, available supports and resources to assist you over the next twelve months. Our experienced team will support you to build on the foundations of your university studies to a nursing or midwifery career filled with possibilities.

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Supernumerary OrientationLocation: Allocated Ward/Units

All graduates will be required to report to their allocated ward/unit at the commencement of the shift.

During your supernumerary days, you will be orientated to your allocated ward and partnered with an RN or Clinical Nurse Educator (CNE) to work with.

You will not be expected to take a patient load, however we do encourage that you embrace this time and take an active role in your learning, as this will further assist you in your smooth transition to the workforce.

The supernumerary days will provide you with an opportunity to orientate yourself to your allocated ward/unit, familiarise yourself with routine, meet the Nurse Unit Manager (NUM) and your new colleagues.

In the first supernumerary shift, you will attend handover and then receive an introduction to the ward/unit.

You will be provided with a preceptor or supervised by a more senior nurse or CNE where possible. A guide to supernumerary shifts can be found below.

Introduction to:

• Communication, Documentation Standards and Clinical Handover

• Sydney Local Health District Nursing and Midwifery Strategic Priorities

• Medication Management• Performance Development

Process and Goal Setting• Introduction to

Care Coordination• Pressure Injury and

Prevention Management• Falls Prevention• Prioritisation

• Infection Control• Clinical Emergency

Response Systems• A–G Assessments• REACH Program• Manual Handling• Safety Culture Coordinators• Working in a Team• Pre- and Post-op Care• Oral Hygiene• Palliative Care• Basic Life Support Assessment• eMeds and eMR2 Training• Reflective Practice

Getting StartedLocation: Virtual Orientation

All new employees complete one full day of virtual corporate orientation. Log in and further instructions will be sent prior to commencing employment.

Nursing OrientationLocation: Facility Hospital

Learning Objectives:

• Understanding the District’s facility and services, client demographics and Sydney Local Health District values.

• Define patient and family centred care and how it affects positive outcomes.

• Understand the supports and services that the District provides for health professionals.

• Recognise innovation and research opportunities and supports within the District.

• Recognise your value in the District and highlight the importance of People Matter campaign.

• Introduction to professional groups and committees and have the opportunity to join NSW Nurses and Midwives Association.

• Identify Sydney Local Health District measures to keep you safe in the workplace.

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Requirements to be completed

Performance and documentation of A–G assessment □Clinical skills assessments, medication administration PO, SC/IM, intravenous medication and fluids using volumetric pump □Adheres to 5 moments of hand hygiene and complies with infection control polices, familiarise with additional precautions i.e. CRE, airborne precautions etc.

□

BGL monitoring, documentation and insulin management □Dispense and administer WAD S4 and S8 and documentation in the register □Demonstrate eMR competency (ADHOC, risks assessments, iView, task manager , clinical notes) □Peripheral and central access devices care and documentation (VIP Score) □Preoperative checklists and common procedures □Introduction to specialty pharmacology (commonly used medications) □

Pharmacy imprest search and obtaining drugs after hours □Discharge medications and discharge dispense log □Perform patient admission, assessment and documentation □Perform ISBAR bedside handover □

Supernumerary Day 2Supernumerary day 2 GN’s should not be ‘counted in numbers’. GN’s should work with an experienced RN or CNE (where available). This is also an opportunity for GN’s to achieve CSAs where possible. Supernumerary shifts should not be used to complete mandatory training.

Name Signature

Supernumerary Day 1Supernumerary shifts GN’s should not be ‘counted in numbers’. The aim of these shifts is to orientate GN’s to ward/unit, routines and ward specific pathways and practices. GN’s should be provided with a preceptor and/or supervised by more experienced RN or CNE (where available). This is also an opportunity for GN’s to achieve Clinical skills Assessments (CSAs) where possible. Supernumerary shifts should not be used to complete mandatory training.

7:00 Arrive to ward and attend ward and bedside handover

7:30 Meeting with NUM and CNE to discuss expectations

Requirements to be completed

Goals for rotations/process of feedback/appraisal process by NUM/CNE/ preceptor/ rosters/leave Requests □Ward tour (fire exits, equipment and treatment rooms, nurses station, pan rooms) □Hospital tour (blood bank, pharmacy, discharge lounge, radiology, theatres airlock etc.) □Introduction to staff (nursing, medical, allied health, support staff) □Routine of ward/unit/ locate policy and procedure □Introduction to admission/discharge process □Emergency alarms/emergency trolley/bedside emergency equipment/suction □CERS related ward specific criteria □Telephone services and how to page □Appropriate waste management □Medication fridges – checking protocol and documentation □Safety checks equipment (i.e. glucometer blood fridge, WOW and POW battery change) □Ward accountable drug registers and ward specific rules (i.e. GN checking and handling keys etc.) □

Name Signature

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Facilitated Study Days During the twelve month Program there will be educational support days, which reinforce relevant clinical knowledge and skills for professional development. Allocated study dates will be advised at commencement of your program, and reminder emails will be sent to you and your NUM to accommodate rostering.

Day 1Skills for Clinical Practice This will focus on developing confidence in your clinical skills which are essential to nursing practice and will occur within one month of commencing employment. This is a full day workshop focusing on CVAD’s, PCA’s, blood products, introduction to scribing and drugs used in emergency situations and case studies/problem based learning will also be incorporated. Accreditation of CVAD access, PCA’s and blood product administration will also be included in this workshop.

Day 2Skills for Clinical Practice This is a full day workshop which will also include Respecting the Difference and will also include further building on clinical skills and promotion of critical thinking through case studies, reflective practice and simulation.

Day 3 Communication Workshop This workshop encompasses reflective, empathetic and assertive communication techniques focusing on challenging conversations, graded assertiveness and managing conflict. A combination of theory and simulation.

Day 4 Arrest and Resuscitation Workshop and Professional DevelopmentGN focused education on arrests and resuscitation is a half study day combining theory and simulation. The aim of the course is to improve the confidence and performance in acute emergency situations. The second half of the workshop is focused on GN’s ongoing career development. This includes a focus on speciality areas you may choose to work in. Workshop includes career planning; developing your curriculum vitae; interview skills; peri-operative; intensive care; courses and professional pathways. A combination of interview simulation and preparation for in-charge of shift.

Supernumerary Days 3 and 4Supernumerary days 3 and 4 GN’s should not be ‘counted in numbers’. GN’s should work with an experienced RN or CNE (where available). This is also an opportunity for GN’s to achieve CSAs where possible. Supernumerary shifts should not be used to complete mandatory training.

Requirements to be completed

Aim to have 3–4 patients with CNE, preceptor or senior RN □

Performance and documentation of A–G assessment □

Clinical skills assessment access/de access CVAD □

Clinical skills assessment patient controlled analgesia □

Familiarise self with blood product administration policy □Liaise with medical and allied health teams regarding patient plan of care □

Ward/unit specific CSA i.e. surgical drains □

Familiarise self with PM shift routine □Continue introduction to pharmacology (commonly used medications) □Demonstrate competency documenting in the electronic Medical Record (eMR) □

Perform ISBAR bedside handover □

Name Signature

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The role of your Nursing Unit Manager (NUM)One of the most important relationships that you will form throughout your transition year will be with your NUM. The role of the NUM will be to discuss the expectations of an RN on the ward and offer a formal orientation to your unit. The NUM will be involved in supporting you to meet the standard of professional practice expected of an RN. They are responsible for rostering your shifts and therefore it is important to communicate with your NUM regarding your mandatory requirements to attend the facilitated learning sessions and supervision. NUMs have a wealth of knowledge, and should be your first point of call for any professional concerns.

The role of your Clinical Nurse Educator (CNE)The CNE is responsible for providing clinical education, professional development, and accreditation of nursing staff at all levels. The CNE promotes a learning environment that is evidence based and supports a culture of learning that strives for the highest possible standard of patient care. The CNE will be able to assist you in specialised clinical skills and education.

The GradStart Coordinators (GNC)The GNC’s are available to support you in your transition into the workforce. GNC’s can assist in performing clinical skills and competencies, discuss your progress and debrief. GNCs are frequently rounding on the wards to ensure that you are supported. They are contactable via page, email or phone.

Debrief SessionsAll participants within the GradStart program are invited to participate in debrief sessions. Debriefing is essential for clinical reflection and professional development. These sessions are not compulsory but GN’s are encouraged to attend if rostered on the shift. It is recommended that you liaise with your NUM in regards to your availability to attend supervision.

Provision of Annual LeaveAs an RN working full time rotating roster you are entitled to 6 weeks annual leave per year. If you work part time, annual leave accrues at a pro-rata rate. The annual leave is allocated to you on your anniversary of employment. It is expected that each participant of the program be allocated at least two weeks annual leave within the first twelve months of employment. Please discuss your leave requirements with your NUM.

Clinical RotationsDuring the course of the 12 months, there will be two six month rotations. Rotations are coordinated by the Workforce Manager at each facility. Although we endeavour to meet all requests, depending on availability this may not always be possible.

Performance Development ReviewGN’s are encouraged to regularly seek feedback from CNEs, NUMs and senior nursing staff as part of the reflective process and professional development. It is also a requirement of the District that you have regular formal feedback on your performance. Employee Performance Development and Review Plans are required of all staff, and are an opportunity to acknowledge your achievements, and plan professional development with your NUM. You must complete an appraisal at three months and then six months for each clinical rotation, which will also include learning goals. The appraisal form is located on the intranet under forms: Performance Development and Review Form.

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Place uniform orders at www.healthshare.nsw.gov.au/services/uniforms

Professional Appearance• Nursing and midwifery staff are expected to wear an appropriate

uniform and present to work in a way that meets the requirements of the District’s policy and reflects our standards of professionalism and code of conduct

• An identification badge must be visible at all times. Please discuss with your NUM to have this arranged.

• For Orientation, wear smart casual clothes

• For Supernumerary shifts please wear appropriate work attire. (Example: white polar/collared shirt, blue or black pants, black leather upper shoes)

• Uniform ordering can occur any time after your commencement date. Ensure you have entered your employee number and allocated manager prior to submitting your order. Your NUM can assist you in this process.

Facility Graduate Nurse Coordinators

Contact Details

Royal Prince Alfred Hospital

Belinda Timson Belinda.Timson@health.nsw.gov.au9515 7072#88568

Jodie Towner Jodie.Towner@health.nsw.gov.au9515 4361#81927

Concord Hospital

Janelle Muldoon Janelle.Muldoon@health.nsw.gov.au9767 7864#60215

Canterbury Hospital

Kalpana Nair

Kalpana.nair1@health.nsw.gov.au9787 0168#82162

Balmain Hospital

Operational Nurse Manager

0418 225 281

Key Contacts

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https://www.healthshare.nsw.gov.au/services/uniforms

Course Forum Timeframe

Aseptic Technique Online Within 4 weeks

Basic Life Support Online Within 4 weeks

Violence Prevention and Management Training

Online 3–6 months

Respecting the Difference Aboriginal cultural training

Online 3–6 months

Respecting the Difference Aboriginal cultural training

Face to Face 3–6 months

Between the Flags – Deteriorating Patient Learning Pathways (Adults)

Online and Face to Face (DETECT)

3–6 months

Waste Management Online 3–6 months

Child Well-being and Child Protection Part 1–3

Online 3–6 months

Maths Test Adult Nursing/Midwifery Online 3–6 months

Cyber S.A.F.E Phishing Awareness Online 3–6 Months

eMeds: Medication Administration Online 3–6 Months

eMeds: Medication Administration Record (MAR) Summary

Online 3–6 Months

Sydney Local Health District eMR Downtime Procedure Online 3–6 Months

Pressure Injury Prevention: Risk Management

Online 3–6 Months

ADAC – Administering oral antineoplastic drugs Pathway

Online 3–6 Months

The Waterlow Pressure Ulcer Risk Assessment and Prevention Scoring System

Online

3–6 Months

EMR Student and Supervisor Process

Online 3–6 Months

Mandatory TrainingCompletion of mandatory training is a requirement and condition of employment with NSW Health; please follow the link to logon to My Health Learning (LMS) slhd.nsw.gov.au/cewd

The following course topics have been split by training occurrence into:

• Orientation – to be completed within the first four weeks of employment

• Induction – to be completed as part of the three to six month on-boarding process

Course Forum Timeframe

Fire Safety and Evacuation – Theory and Practical

Practical Getting Started

Manual Handling (Patient Handlers) Practical Getting Started

Basic Life Support Assessment

Practical Nursing Orientation

Introduction to Work Health and Safety

Online Within 4 weeks

Security Awareness – All Staff Online Within 4 weeks

Hazardous Manual Task Online Within 4 weeks

IIMS: Notifier Training Online Within 4 weeks

Infection Prevention and Control Practices – Clinical Staff

Online Within 4 weeks

Fire Safety and Evacuation Online Within 4 weeks

Hand Hygiene Online Within 4 weeks

Sharps Injury for Clinical Staff Online Within 4 weeks

Privacy Module 1 and 2 Online Within 4 weeks

Care Coordination Online Within 4 weeks

Introduction to Safety and Quality Online Within 4 weeks

Clinical Transfusion Practice Online Within 4 weeks

Open disclosure Online Within 4 weeks

Invasive Device Protocols Online Within 4 weeks

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https://www.slhd.nsw.gov.au/cewd/

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

Can I change my allocated clinical rotation?

No, clinical rotations are at the discretion of HR and Nursing Executive. If you believe you are unable to fulfill the role of an RN in your rotation specialty please discuss with GNCs.

I can’t work a rotating roster, what should I do?

It is requirements of the District’s employment contract that you can work a 24 hour 7 day a week rotating roster. Any issues must be raised with your NUM and Workforce/HR.

I have an Injury, what do I do?

Ensure you have declared any injuries or conditions on your model health declaration form supplied during the recruitment process. If you suffer a workplace injury, seek medical attention and notify your NUM or if afterhours the facility Nurse Manager as soon as possible. Liaise with your NUM and Return to Work (RTW) Coordinator regarding the process ad ensure you supply all required documentation.

What is my weekly wage?

NSW Public Health Nurses Award Rate of pay per week for 1st year registered nurse $1230.10. Additional allowances and penalty rates as per Award, can be accessed at: health.nsw.gov.au/careers/conditions/awards/nurses.pdf.

How do I swap a shift?

All shift swaps must be approved by your NUM and the swap must be approved and entered into HealthRoster. You must complete a shift swap form and the swap must be with a member of staff that is appropriate for skill mix. Discuss all shift swaps with your NUM or in charge nurse.

I am sick, who should I call? What forms do I need?

If you need to call in sick please follow your hospital protocol giving your name, shift you are calling in sick for and the ward you work on. Give at least 6 hours’ notice at a minimum if you are calling in sick. All incidents of sick leave are monitored and you must provide evidence medical certificate for all sick leave of or more days. Leave application forms can be found o n the intranet under ‘forms’.

Important Numbers

HR Departments Phone

Balmain Hospital SLHD-BalmainHR@health.nsw.gov.au

9395 2103

Canterbury hospitalSLHD-CanterburyHR@health.nsw.gov.au

9787 0269

Concord HospitalSLHD-ConcordHR@health.nsw.gov.au

9767 6259

Royal Prince Alfred HospitalSLHD-RPAHREnquires@health.nsw.gov.au

9515 95249515 9888

Aboriginal Workforce Consultant 9767 5435

Smart Salary (Salary Packaging) 1300 476 278

Recruitment Unit 9767 8570

Employee Assistance Program Phone

Balmain Hospital 9767 5437

Canterbury Hospital 9787 0244

Concord Hospital9767 5437

9767 6726

Royal Prince Alfred Hospital 9515 9688

Facility Contact Switchboard Phone

Balmain Hospital 9395 2111

Canterbury Hospital 9787 0000

Concord Hospital 9767 5000

Royal Prince Alfred Hospital 9515 6111

Centre for Education and Workforce Development (CEWD)

8755 3500

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https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/careers/conditions/awards/nurses.pdfhttps://www.health.nsw.gov.au/careers/conditions/awards/nurses.pdf

Notes

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