For Registered Nurses to be approved to administer specified vaccines and manage adverse reactions where there may not be a medical practitioner present, this program covers immunisation throughout the lifespan but excludes travel and COVID-19 immunisation.

The Nurse Immuniser Program is available on a fee-paying basis as a continuing education subject and as a 15-credit point elective toward postgraduate award studies in Nursing. This program is offered twice a year. Registered Nurses wishing to become Nurse Immunisers must successfully complete all the components of the program.

Course content

The program includes two components:

Theory

Delivered via flexible online mode over fifteen (15) weeks study, supported by two compulsory online study days. The curriculum is based on the National Immunisation Education Framework for Health Professionals and covers:

• The Global and Australian Context for Immunisation
• The Immune System and Immunisation
• The Law, Ethics and Immunisation

Immunisation Practice Clinical

Completion of the clinical requirements are through an on-campus clinical simulation or under the direct mentorship of an accredited immuniser.

Assessment

There are three assessments in this program:

• Written assessment (short answer questions)
• Online open book exam
• Clinical assessment in laboratory or placement setting

Extra requirements

1. Broadband internet access and an active email address that can be accessed at home during study periods.
2. Students must have basic computer literacy skills (e.g. Word or other word processing software)

Prerequisites at time of clinical placement

The following documents must be provided to the mentor on the first day of clinical placement. Students are advised to apply for documents upon acceptance in the program.

1. Evidence of passing all theoretical components
2. A copy of current CPR certificate - Performing Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation unit of competency for adults, children and infants (or equivalent)
3. A copy of current Police Check
4. A copy of current Working with Children Check