Trainee assistant practitioner Review

I was already a health care assistant within an acute hospital ward, providing assistance with personal hygiene needs, carrying out basic observations, venepuncture, cannulation, catheterisation. I can now admit patients to the ward, prepare for theatre and ensure everything is in place for discharge.This helps the qualified nurse and ensures a good patient experience.

During the course I have learnt several new skills- acupins, flushing cannulas, monitoring person controlled analgesia and lots of new paperwork. I also learnt how to reference my academic work, write assignments and look at the reasons for working policies and procedures.

The first few weeks were quite difficult, its a long time since I attended school/college so to be in a classroom was challenging. The group has been supportive, my work colleagues have all been on board and I have really enjoyed the experience.

The first day could have been more in depth - give student email addresses for example and show us the student portal and how to use it. The tutors were all very approachable and available for help/ assistance if needed. The modules were all explained fully and quite easy to follow.

My ward manager has been very supportive throughout the course. My mentor has provided opportunities for development in the workplace with only a little confusion at the beginning as it is a new role for my work area.

The university provides clear module requirements with the tutors providing classroom teaching around the subject. They also provided support when we were self learning. When it was time for the end point assessment there was also a clear explanation of what is required.

This qualification has enabled a new role to be created within the department - with input from my ward manager and myself. I feel I can now offer a more person centred approach to patient care, have more confidence and have learnt new skills.

Within the ward area we organise nights out and have had weekends away. At the trust we have the proud awards with a night out and an award ceremony.

Yes

There are a lot of opportunities on offer with funding available for many courses to allow progression within your department.

Look at the area offering the vacancy and read the job description/ what will be expected of you. Don't be embarrassed to highlight your good points in interview and don't be afraid to ask questions. Ask if there are opportunities to progress.