Search

• About UCS
• Alumni
• Work at UCS
• Community
• UCS Schools and Network

 

• Schools and Network homepage
• UCS Schools
  • School of Applied Social Sciences
  • School of Arts and Humanties
  • School of Business, Leadership and Enterprise
  • School of Nursing and Midwifery
    • Research Activity
    • Courses
    • School of Nursing and Midwifery staff
  • School of Science, Technology and Health
  • Academic Support
• Our campus network
• Leap
• Infozone

 

Good practice for the support of nursing students with specific learning needs whilst on placement.

These guidelines have been agreed by practice partners and UCS as indicators to good practice.

The Disability Discrimination Act (1995) requires that education makes 'reasonable adjustments' for those students with specific learning needs. This is to allow them to access learning opportunities in the same way and with the same chances as their peers. Education in this respect includes not only the lecture hall but also practice.

The term 'reasonable adjustments' is not easy to define. What is does not mean however is that the student can be passed with a performance at a lower level than for others or that failings should be accepted. It does mean that facilities must be provided that will help the person manage the situation. These adjustments will then allow particular needs to be addressed.

The following are taken from the recommendations of the NMC for all students whatever their educational needs:

Guidance for Mentors

• Provide clear instructions and expectations to the students.
• Encourage the student to repeat back instructions to avoid misunderstanding.
• Double check student documentation for errors.
• Provide enough time for students to complete activities within the boundaries of safe practice.
• Respect and support the student's need to use special equipment or aids.

Students are not obliged to make their individual needs known. The following advice is however given through the course team to all who have been assessed:

Guidance for Students

• Students should make mentors and/or CPF's aware of any specific learning need(s).
• Students should keep a pocket book to note priorities and instructions when given. Confidentiality must be protected at all times.
• Notes and instructions must be recorded in sequence.
• Any intended entries into records and notes should be drafted and checked by a responsible person before being made in the formal record.
• Any particular difficulties experienced in practice as a result of specific learning needs must be made known to a CPF or personal tutor urgently.

Back to Practice Support Home Page|