Neonatalogy Clinical Care Unit (NCCU) - Women and Newborn Health Service
The NCCU is located at King Edward Memorial Hospital (KEMH) and Princess Margaret Hospital for Children (PMH) and is the only Tertiary Level 3 Unit in Western Australia. The total number of beds available over both sites is 125 (100 at KEMH and 25 at PMH). Nursing within the NCCU for new Registered Nurses/Midwives (RNs/RMs) begins with a comprehensive orientation program to the Level 2 (Immediate Care Unit) followed by orientation to the Level 3 (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) nurseries over a number of weeks. The program can be tailored to meet the requirements of each individual, taking into consideration prior knowledge and experience. The new staff member works closely with the Clinical Development Nurses (CDN), then with a preceptor or buddy before working independently with CDN support if required. 'New Staff Lectures' are conducted by the CDNs throughout the orientation period in order to assist staff to develop and consolidate clinical skills and knowledge. Post orientation, an ongoing education program is available for all nursing staff working in the unit. RNs/RMs interested in a career in neonatal nursing should contact the Nurse Manager, NCCU by email: Pippa.Vines@health.wa.gov.au
Masters of Clinical Nursing (Neonatal Intensive Care)
This is a collaborative program offered by Curtin University and the NCCU for RNs/RMs working in the unit who meet the necessary entry requirements. The program covers all areas of neonatal intensive care nursing, including the care of sick and extremely low birth weight neonate. Students are provided with advanced theory and clinical skills over the program and may exit at the Graduate Certificate level or can continue on to complete a Postgraduate Diploma or a Masters Degree. For further information, please see the Curtin University website or contact the Coordinator Neonatal Nursing Education by email: Linda.McKean@health.wa.gov.au or L.McKean@curtin.edu.au
Post Registration Neonatal Level 2 Registered Nurse/Midwife Certificate Course
The Level 2 RN/RM course was specifically developed to provide education for Western Australian RNs/RMs employed in a Level 2 Neonatal Special Care Nursery (SCN) in a metropolitan or rural hospital. The 3 moth course is conducted at both KEMH and PMH Neonatal Units in conjunction with the participant hospital Level 2 SCN. On successful completion, the graduate will be awarded a Post Registration Neonatal Level 2 RN/RM certificate and will have the skills and knowledge to effectively practice in a Level 2 SCN. This course is offered annually and enquiries can be made to the Neonatal Outreach Coordinator by email: Hilary.Cross@health.wa.gov.au
Post Registration Neonatal Enrolled Nurse Course
This is a 6 month certificate course for Enrolled Nurses (EN) employed in the NCCU and provides applicants with knowledge and competencies to practice in the Level 2 neonatal SCNs. For further information in regard to the entrance requirements of into this course please contact: Rose.Brewin@health.wa.gov.au