Mental Health Nursing

Bachelor of Science (Honours)

Course Details

CAO Code	AU381
Level	8
Duration	4 Years
CAO Points	272 (2024)
Method of Delivery	On-campus
Campus Locations	Donegal – Letterkenny
Mode of Delivery	Full Time
Work placement	Yes

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Course Overview

Our Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Mental Health Nursing is a four year course that will prepare you for a fulfilling career in mental health and associated fields. It’s a fascinating and rewarding career in every regard.

Few careers are more vital in our society than the caring professions. This course will ensure you acquire the specialist skills to work in the mental health sectors.

It will equip you with the capacity to work as part of a team working with patients suffering from mental health issues, with a practical placement in a healthcare environment a key component of your training.

Following qualification you’ll be able to pursue a career in clinical nursing, nurse management or education, and as a specialist, not only in mental health care, but with the foundation to advance and specialise in the field of renal, oncology or orthopaedic nursing.

Practice Placement forms an integral part of the course. Placements are normally 35/39 hours per week and you will be required to work nights, long shifts and weekends. Placement will be in Donegal or in Sligo/Leitrim Mental Health Services for the duration of the course. On course commencement students will be asked to complete a Service Preference Form and preference will, in as far as possible, be taken into account but please note ATU Donegal reserves the right to determine placement allocation.

Non-Eu candidates will not be considered for this course unless/until there are still vacant places available after all eligible EU candidates have been considered.

Course Details

Year 1

Semester	Module Details	Credits	Mandatory / Elective
1	Biological & Related Sciences 1 The module will provide the student with a basic introduction and understanding of the anatomy and physiology of body systems along with the principles of nutrition and introductory microbiology. Classes are augmented by tutorials which set content in the context of professional nursing practice. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the overall organization of the body, structure and function of cells, tissues, and membranes. 2. Explain the underlying principles of homeostasis and the physiological responses to variations homeostatic conditions. 3. Describe the basic structure and functions of the cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, and urinary systems and related physiology 4. Recognise the basic biology of microorganisms and the principles of pathogenic control 5. Relate the underlying principles of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics.	05	Mandatory
1	Introduction to Behaviour Sciences & Scholarship This module will introduce students to insights offered by the social sciences of psychology and sociology into understanding human behaviour to develop an understanding of holistic factors relevant to health and health care. A key focus of this module is to facilitate the development of students' understanding of the requirements and expectations of academic study in higher education. Classes are supplemented by tutorials to set content in the context of nursing care and practice. A flipped classroom approach may be used to enhance student learning where appropriate. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the historical context from which sociology emerged and differentiate between the three main theoretical paradigms/perspectives and their implications for healthcare 2. Explain major approaches in contemporary psychology, examine their implications for healthcare and explore core topics in social and cognitive psychology; 3. Apply a range of academic skills to produce written work appropriate to undergraduate study. 4. Describe the scientific method, ethics and research methodology used as the evidence base in nursing and the social sciences	05	Mandatory
1	Professional & Ethical Nursing Studies 1 This module will introduce the learner to the core values underpinning the professional practice of nursing and to the different disciplines of nursing. It will also provide the learner with the requisite knowledge, skills and attitudes needed to deliver quality nursing care within Irish legal, regulatory, ethical, professional structures, and to the concept digital health. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the context of nursing to include the history and core values underpinning the professional practice of nursing 2. Describe the professional regulatory body in Ireland 3. Outline the foundations of the Irish Legal System, ethical principles and the application to Nursing 4. Explore the concept of Digital Health 5. Describe the historical and contemporary approaches to care of individuals within general setting.	05	Mandatory
1	Nursing Skills 1 This module will introduce the learner to the theory which underpins core nursing skills. An emphasis is placed in relation to essential clinical skills required prior to commencing practice placement. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the theory underpinning core fundamental nursing skills to enable care delivery in a variety of clinical settings across the lifespan. 2. Discuss the health and safety considerations of health care environments including the infection prevention and control of hospital-acquired infection with reference to relevant national guidelines/requirements. 3. Demonstrate ability to safely assess and record various physiological parameters, calculate a NationalEarly Warning Score and understand the associated escalation protocol 4. Demonstrate (under supervision) the nursing skills necessary for the provision of holistic care to patients/clients/service user in a variety of settings and across the lifespan. 5. Demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively with individuals with with general, intellectual disability and Mental Health needs/families and multi-disciplinary team. 6. Identify the nursing process, nursing models and the use of models in nursing practice 7. Explain and identify the expectations of a Year 1 nursing student for the various practice placement settings including knowledge of the National Competency Assessment Document.	10	Mandatory
2	Biological & Related Sciences 2 The module will provide the student with a basic introduction and understanding of the anatomy and physiology of body systems, along with introductory genetics and applied pharmacology. Classes are augmented by tutorials, which set content in the context of professional nursing practice. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the basic structure and functions of the nervous, endocrine, reproductive, musculo-skeletal, lymphatic, immune system and the skin 2. Describe a basic understanding of human genetics 3. Restate how the biological sciences relate to nursing skills, care and practice. 4. Describe the basic pharmacological principles as applied to the various body systems. 5. Identify major drug groups and action on major bodily systems.	05	Mandatory
2	Psychology & Sociology Across the Lifespan This module builds on learners' understanding of biological, psychological and social factors that influence health through the life course. Application of evidence based psychological and sociological approaches to nursing and health care are embedded in the module with the ethos of person-centred care and inclusivity in services. The module also builds on scholarly skills with a focus on individual and group presentation skills. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe milestones across the life course and outline brain structure and emotional, cognitive and social development according to psychological perspectives. 2. Describe the link between social determinants of health, health and health outcomes and discuss the impact ofinequalities in health and fatalistic views. 3. Describe research and the contribution of psychology and sociology to health and health care delivery. 4. Demonstrate good communication skills in written and oral form by planning and delivering a group presentation.	05	Mandatory
2	Professional & Ethical Nursing Studies 2 Drawing on the knowledge gained in Professional and Ethical Nursing 1. This module will further develop the learner's understanding of the concepts around professional and personal development. This module will also introduce the student to the Research Process, Health Informatics and the legal and ethical frameworks in nursing practice. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the fundamental principles of personal and professional development 2. Describe the key concepts of the research process and the utilisation of health Informatics 3. Identify the legal and ethical issues in relation to the nursing profession. 4. Describe the current approaches to caring for people with intellectual disabilities including the use of person-centred thinking tools 5. Describe the adaptation process and the impact on parents caring for a family member with an intellectual disability	05	Mandatory
2	Understanding the Nature of Mental Illness This module will introduce the learner to the concepts, methods and practices pertaining to contemporary mental health nursing. As a specialised and unique area of nursing, the role of the mental health nurse in supporting recovery will be articulated through the medium of the individual client experience. The learner will engage in communication and interpersonal skills to enable and enhance therapeutic engagement and personal development. Learning Outcomes 1. Explain the core nursing skills necessary for the provision of holistic care to people with mental health across the lifespan. 2. Demonstrate an ability to communicate effectively with individuals with a mental health difficulty, their families and the multi-disciplinary team. 3. Identify the nursing process, nursing models and the use of models in mental health nursing practice 4. Describe the nature of mental distress/illness across hospital, community and primary care settings. 5. Plan and prioritise recovery focused nursing interventions necessary for providing safe care in a mental health setting. 6. Explain and discuss the expectations of a Year 1 nursing student for various mental health practice settings including knowledge of the National Competency Assessment Document. 7. Perform calculations and administer medications under supervision	10	Mandatory
2	Mental Health Nursing Practice 1 This module will expose the learner to a wide range of practice placement learning opportunities. It aims to provide the learner with the opportunity to participate under direct supervision by a registered nurse in the delivery of safe and holistic practice. It is a specialist module where the learner is engaged with core essential skills as identified by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland Requirements and Standards for Pre-Registration Nursing Education (NMBI 2016). Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate under direct supervision of the registered nurse, the nursing skills fundamental for the delivery of person-centered, safe and effective care, support and interventions. 2. Outline the principles of Health & Safety at Work and demonstrate skills in safe patient handling techniques, personal safety /breakaway techniques, basic life support, fire safety and infection control measures. 3. Demonstrate an ability to communicate and provide a means for people within the various mental health settings and their families to convey their opinions and feelings about their care. 4. Participate in care utilizing a systematic, problem-solving approach to meet the health needs of an increasingly diverse population. 5. Demonstrate the ability to comply with policies and protocols to ensure the safety of the person, staff and the general public. 6. Begin to take responsibility and accountability as outlined in the Code of Professional Conduct and Ethics for Registered Nurses and Midwives (2021) and Scope of Nursing and Midwifery Practice Framework (2015). 7. Practice at beginner level his/her duty of care within a legal and ethical framework. 8. Illustrate the concept of reflection and its application to practice enhancing the development of self and others.	10	Mandatory

Year 2

Semester	Module Details	Credits	Mandatory / Elective
1	Physical Health & Wellbeing 1 The aim of this module is to integrate theoretical knowledge of the relevant pathophysiological mind – body interactions along with the natural healing and holistic approaches to care. This further aims to allow the student to understand the basis for the person experiencing mental health difficulties and the need for a restoration of health and wellbeing where possible, including psychopharmacological approaches to care. Learning Outcomes 1. Explain the aetiology and epidemiology related to mental health difficulties 2. Explain the pathophysiology processes within the Nervous and endocrine systems as a basis in understanding human behaviour and response 3. Provide an understanding of the mode of action, desired effects, contraindications and adverse effects of the common psychopharmacological interventions used in the treatment of mental health difficulties. 4. Discuss the principles of natural health philosophy, and the accompanying healing therapies 5. Discuss the contribution of nutrition for maintaining mental wellbeing 6. Discuss various complementary approaches to the management of mental distress.	10	Mandatory
1	Research in Practice 1 The module considers the role and application of EBP and introduces the learner to skills in critical appraisal of nursing and health related research literature. The aim of this module is to equip students with the necessary knowledge and evidence literacy to question the knowledge that informs practice and undertake a critique of the literature. Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss different types of research approaches and paradigms appropriate for healthcare research 2. Describe the stages involved in the research process. 3. Discuss the ethical implications of research 4. Describe the role of evidence informed practice in healthcare. 5. Appraise a piece of primary research using a robust approach	05	Mandatory
1	Professional and Ethical Nursing Studies 3 The aim of this module is to advance the learners personal, professional and ethical values of nursing. It will also introduce the learner to the concepts of clinical governance, quality improvement frameworks, information communication technology, quality and safety management and leadership and management styles. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the principles of Clinical Governance, nature of leadership and how it contributes to patient safety 2. Discuss the areas of legal accountability in nursing practice 3. Explore the use of information technology in nursing. 4. Describe key professional issues that impact on the everyday role and function of the mental health nurse. 5. Discuss and engage in the practice of developing and maintaining therapeutic alliance with people experiencing mental health distress/ illness.	05	Mandatory
1	Promoting Recovery This module aims to introduce the learner to the principles of recovery and psychotherapeutic interventions for clients with mental health issues and empower them to achieve and maintain recovery or improved quality of life. It aims to promote a sense of connection, shared meaning and development for both client and nurse within transient and challenging human experiences and understanding of the uniqueness of mental health. Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss the principles and challenges of recovery in mental health nursing. 2. Discuss the role and contribution of non-statutory organisations, community resources, peer support and family/carer in supporting the individual to live in the community. 3. Discuss the key theoretical assumptions underpinning common psychotherapeutic interventions. 4. Contrast the various psychotherapeutic approaches with client suitability in improving therapeutic outcomes. 5. Discuss the stages and challenges of group development and delivery 6. Discuss the impact of adverse experiences on peoples wellbeing	10	Mandatory
2	Complex needs in Mental Health Nursing This module aims to encourage the Learner to build upon achieved knowledge, skills, attitudeS and values of working with clients across diverse healthcare setting. It aims to introduce the learner to the interpersonal dynamics and challenges in working therapeutically with people who have complex needs while ensuring that all interventions are evidenced based and client centred. Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss the challenges of therapeutic engagement with individuals experiencing a complex mental health problem 2. Illustrate awareness of risk assessment and safety planning to ensure safe practice and appropriate nursing responses to identified complex needs 3. Distinguish the main treatment approaches and service provisions which support people who experience multiple and complex needs 4. Examine the role of the psychiatric nurse in supporting people who experience multiple and complex needs. 5. Describe the challenges of delivering client centred care to individuals experiencing complex mental health problems. 6. Discuss the impact of National Clinical Care Programmes in enhancing client outcomes for those with complex needs	10	Mandatory
2	Promoting Health & Wellbeing The aim of this module is to develop learners’ knowledge of the processes of health promotion relevant to nursing practice as well as psychological, social and cultural factors influencing health behaviours and the communication of health-related messages. The module is underpinned by a life-course perspective and the principles of supporting informed choice and autonomy as well as an inclusive, culture-aware approach. Issues relating to health and digital health will also be explored. Learning Outcomes 1. Explain the aims and approaches to health promotion and national and international policy and frameworks 2. Examine contemporary theories and research on the social determinants of health and health behaviours 3. Describe key health messages and apply core principles required for effective health promotion practice and discuss the importance of health screening, early interventions and well-being approaches 4. Discuss how eHealth can empower people in promoting their own self-care 5. Design, deliver and evaluate a health promotion initiative under supervision	05	Mandatory
2	Research in Practice 2 The learner will be introduced to various sources of evidence and the relationship between clinical questions, research designs, methods and ethical integrity. Furthermore, the importance and role of clinical guidelines and clinical audit in evidence-based practice will be illustrated. The learner will incrementally build their knowledge of and reflect on the research evidence which underpins clinical decision making in areas related to their clinical practice. Learning Outcomes 1. Distinguish the philosophical underpinnings and theoretical frameworks/perspectives of healthcare enquiry and analyse how these influence the subsequent conduct of research and enquiry 2. Discuss the position of evidence informed practice on clinical decision making 3. Formulate a research questioning using the PICO format from a defined healthcare problem 4. Retrieve, review and analyse best available evidence systematically including interpretation of findings	05	Mandatory
2	Physical Health & Wellbeing 2 The aim of this module is to integrate theoretical knowledge of the relevant pathophysiological processes of the Cardio-vascular system and Respiratory system (Co-morbidity) into psychiatric nursing practice. It aims to build on the knowledge gained in the module ‘understanding the nature of mental illness’ to enhance the learners physical care knowledge in caring for a client with a physical condition within a specific mental health context. Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss the impact of homeostatic disruption (pathology and pathophysiology) of the cardio-vascular system on physical and mental health 2. Discuss the impact of homeostatic disruption (pathology and pathophysiology) of the respiratory system on health/mental health 3. Discuss the physiological basis for an aspect of care, including pharmacology for disorders of the cardio-vascular and respiratory system 4. Recognise the relationship between physical illness and mental illness and the impact of both on the clients ability for self- care (co-morbidity)	05	Mandatory
2	Mental Health Nursing Practice II This module will further develop the learner's journey towards safe professional nursing practice within a variety of practice settings. It will facilitate the learner under close supervision to develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes that are required to deliver safe, person-centered care in an evolving health and social care environment. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate at advanced beginner level the fundamental nursing skills essential for the delivery of safe, holisticcompassionate care to people. 2. Demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively with people requiring care, families, preceptors and other members of the multi-disciplinary team using verbal and non-verbal communication including documentation skills. 3. Apply a problem- solving approach in clinical practice utilising the appropriate nursing framework. 4. Demonstrate the ability to comply with policies and protocols to ensure the safe delivery of care to children, adults, staff, and the general public 5. Apply the concepts of responsibility and accountability as outlined in the Code of Professional Conduct and Ethics for Registered Nurses and Registered Midwives (NMBI, 2021) and Scope of Nursing and Midwifery Framework (NMBI, 2015) 6. Demonstrate the ability to use a reflective model in practice to enhance the development of self and others in clinical practice	05	Mandatory

Year 3

Semester	Module Details	Credits	Mandatory / Elective
1	Mental Health Nursing Practice III This module provides the learner with the skills, competency, knowledge and attitudes for the provision of safe and effective care through a diversity of placement experiences in an ever-changing and complex health and social care environment. The learner will subsequently demonstrate competence and confidence in achieving the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Irelands Requirements and Standards (2016) to care and support people with a human rights-based approach. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate the safe and effective performance of a broad range of nursing skills essential to the provision of competent, professional and accountable, holistic person-centred nursing care. 2. Demonstrate the ability to communicate appropriately and effectively with people, families, and other members of the multi-disciplinary team in a professional manner. 3. Develop and maintain accurate person-centred care plans whilst demonstrating the ability to critically analyse and apply best practice in nursing care and contemporaneous nursing documentation. 4. Apply personal and professional competence and abilities in relation to ethical and non-discriminatory nursing practice. 5. Analyse the national, global and environmental context of nursing practice within 21st century health and social care and relevant legislation which may influence nursing practice in Ireland. 6. Demonstrate numeracy skills pertaining to drug calculations and a knowledge of medications and medication management and associated documentation and legislation. 7. Practice as an independent, resilient learner, exercising rigorous and independent thinking and an appreciation of the art and science of nursing, whilst demonstrating the ability to critically analyse and apply best evidence to nursing practice. 8. Demonstrate the ability to reflect on ones professional practice, identifying deficits in knowledge and skills and seek opportunities to enhance professional performance through supervision, feedback and appraisal.	30	Mandatory
2	Mental Health Across the Lifespan This module aims to develop the learners’ theoretical and practical ability to care for and communicate with a person with mental health concerns across the lifespan. It aims to foster a more diverse, person-centered approach to mental health care, recovery and promotion. The module aims to introduce the learner to the complexities of mental healthcare while simultaneously ensuring that recovery based principles informs all interactions and interventions. The principles of risk assessment and safety planning, Recovery, empowerment and advocacy will be contextualized within the module which advance safer, optimal therapeutic outcomes. Learning Outcomes 1. Appraise the role and function of the mental health nurse in promoting positive mental health, resilience and well-being throughout the lifespan 2. Determine the essential theoretical and practical skills, knowledge and attitudes necessary to respond to a person with mental health concerns, in a compassionate, age-appropriate, respectful and non-discriminatory manner. 3. Appraise the concept of loss and bereavement in mental health care. 4. Utilises effective communication, critical thinking and problem-solving skills in potential acute, crisis or emergency mental health situations in order to plan safe, responsive, holistic mental health nursing care. 5. Analyse the principles of risk assessment and safety planning for enhanced clinical judgement and decision-making within a complex and changing healthcare service and population. 6. Apply recovery-based competencies across the life spectrum in diverse and complex healthcare settings.	10	Mandatory
2	Ageing & Caring This module aims to develop the learners holistic understanding of Aging and related nursing skills in the context of increasing demographics and chronic disease. The learner will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to promote active ageing, provide holistic evidence-based person-centred care and support the older person in acute care, long-term care, rehabilitation and/or a return to independent living. Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss the epidemiological and demographics trends and their implications for health and social care services internationally and nationally. 2. Discuss the biological, cognitive and social changes associated with ageing, including the key medical conditions that may affect the older person. 3. Discuss the principles of delivering safe, holistic and effective nursing care for the older person and addressing ageism in healthcare. 4. Demonstrate the knowledge and understanding of the main health and social care needs and issues of an ageing population. 5. Discuss the assessment tools and support mechanisms available to assist in caring for the older person in the discipline related areas and the services available both in primary and secondary care.	05	Mandatory
2	Individual & Collective Wellbeing This module aims to develop learners' understanding of psychological, social and climate change factors influencing psychological well-being as related to nursing. The module has a foundation in the principles of person-centredness, participation, diversity, and a trauma-informed approach. The module will offer an opportunity to explore aspects of self-care and reflect on the political and power issues underpinning well-being and health care delivery. Learning Outcomes 1. Evaluate the psychological, social, cultural and political factors contributing to well-being and mental health disorders on individuals and groups. 2. Evaluate the impact of cultural diversity and anti-discriminatory practice on the well-being and mental health of individuals and groups 3. Analyse practical strategies for recognizing stress and promoting positive psychological well-being in self and others using evidence-based approaches 4. Evaluate the interface between e-health and psychosocial well-being	05	Mandatory
2	Research in Practice 3 This module will enable the learner to develop skills in knowledge and understanding of the research process. The learner will further develop critical thinking, problem-solving and skills in critical analysis whilst undertaking a literature review in the area of health and nursing practice. Learning Outcomes 1. Understand the purpose and basic elements of an effective literature review and a research proposal 2. Develop a research question 3. Conduct a comprehensive literature search utilising a theoretical framework 4. Use the library resources effectively including e.g. search terms, inclusion & exclusion criteria and RefWorks 5. Plan, structure and write a literature review	05	Mandatory
2	Physical Health & Wellbeing 3 The aim of this module is to integrate theoretical knowledge of the relevant pathophysiological processes of the digestive system and the renal system into psychiatric nursing practice. This aims to integrate pathophysiology with the therapeutic use of pharmacological interventions used in the treatment of mental health difficulties in hospital and community settings. Particular emphasis will be placed on psychopharmacological adverse effects and the mental health nurses role in identifying and monitoring such adverse events in the treatment of co- morbidities. Understanding the importance of empowerment of people with mental health difficulties and choice and informed consent in relation to individual care planning. Learning Outcomes 1. Explain the impact of homeostasis disruption in the digestive system and the renal system 2. Discuss the pathology and pathophysiology of conditions of the digestive system and renal system, including the pathophysiological basis for an aspect of care. 3. Evaluate the main psychopharmacological adversities in mental health clients and provide a biochemical rational for blood screening and monitoring. 4. Distinguish the pathophysiological underpinning of common side effects and how this might contribute to the challenge of concordance. 5. Appraise the principles of safe drug administration. 6. Evaluate the challenge of drug dependence and abuse of prescribed medications.	05	Mandatory

Year 4

Semester	Module Details	Credits	Mandatory / Elective
1	Contemporary Approaches in Mental Health Nursing This module aims to facilitate the learner to explore creative and innovative mental health nursing practice across the mental health continuum. It encourages the learner to appreciate and utilise creative approaches in therapeutic settings. The module aims to facilitate the learner to interpret and analyze best practice in relation to current health challenges within the process of mental health nursing and integrate these into own personal and professional philosophy. Through meaningful dialogue, creativity, and engagement the learner will develop competence to apply a systematic and imaginative approach to the provision of person-centered practice. Learning Outcomes 1. Critically discuss creative and innovative approaches to mental health nursing. 2. Critically discuss the contribution innovative art forms have in enhancing the nurses role and the service users recovery and wellbeing 3. Critically evaluate the role of the service user in the design, delivery, and evaluation of mental health services 4. Critically discuss the complex and individual nature of creativity and its impact upon therapeutic growth for clients, service users, patients, groups, families and communities. 5. Critically apply aspects of the arts and humanities in contemporary mental health nursing and e-mental health as a mode of intervention for mental distress. 6. Effectively apply and reflect on the skills, knowledge and values required for the use of creativity in therapeutic settings.	10	Mandatory
1	Leadership, Management & Professional Scholarship The aim of this module is to provide the learner with the knowledge and skills necessary for the development of Leadership potential, Professional Scholarship, nursing management and team working. Learning Outcomes 1. Critically discuss the dynamic nature of leadership, management and professional scholarship in nursing and apply the skills and knowledge required for healthcare management 2. Develop leadership potential to lead and co-ordinate a team, delegating, supervising and monitoringnursing care provision. 3. Critically evaluate professional scholarship through self-directed learning skills, critical questioning/reasoning skills and decision-making skills in relation to evidence-based practice 4. Apply current legislative principles to the individual, society and the nursing profession. 5. Critically discuss the principles of informatics and their application to the delivery of nursing practice and the impact of information technology on healthcare practice.	10	Mandatory
1	Development of the Skilled Practitioner This module provides integration of theoretical approaches and the development of advanced skills to enhance the therapeutic relationship between the nurse and the client in clinical practice. Particular emphasis will be on personal and professional development, ethical dilemmas and interdisciplinary team working while the contribution of effective communication skills in all client interactions will be articulated. The importance of managing our own mental health will also be addressed as an essential component for lifelong practice. Learning Outcomes 1. Critically reflect on the interpersonal and intrapersonal skills necessary for effective communication with clients and their families/carers aimed at enhancing therapeutic outcomes. 2. Analyse the influence of the mental health act (2001) on the roles and responsibly of the mental health nurse in upholding clients rights. 3. Critically examine real life mental health ethical dilemmas within established clinical judgement and decision making frameworks and consequently formulate potential safe and accurate courses of mental health nursing action. 4. Evaluate the role of lifelong learning and continuous professional development in advancing professional scholarship. 5. Critically reflect on the importance of managing personal mental health and explore the emotional impact on self of working in mental health.	10	Mandatory
1	Mental Health Nursing Practice 4 This module aims to promote continued development of theoretical knowledge and clinical skills at competent level and facilitate the learner to manage delivery of person-centered care effectively in a safe, caring and competent manner, essential to the art and science of nursing, whilst taking personal and professional accountability for own actions. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate competency in the provision of person-centred nursing care and management of holistic nursing process in partnership with individuals/patients/clients with various health concerns, and their family within a variety of clinical settings. 2. Practice diverse communication skills and interpersonal relations at competent level within a caring therapeutic milieu with individuals/patients/clients, his/her family, and MDT. 3. Demonstrate a capacity to utilise problem-solving skills, integrate evidence-based knowledge to support clinical judgement, delegate and analyse within the scope of professional practice. 4. Appraise policies and protocols to ensure safety of persons/ patients/clients, staff, and general public. 5. Practice within the limits of own competence conforming to moral, ethical, and legal frameworks, and apply responsibility and accountability as outlined in code of professional conduct and ethics for registered nurses and registered midwives, and scope of professional practice framework 6. Integrate evidence-based knowledge including reflective practice sessions to support clinical judgement.	05	Mandatory
2	Mental Health Nursing-Internship This module aims to promote consolidation of the learners' theoretical knowledge and clinical competency in preparation for successful transition for eligibility to register as a qualified nurse. The module also aims to facilitate ongoing development of knowledge, values, meaning and experiences at proficient level; to integrate skills of analysis, theoretical knowledge, problem-solving, clinical decision-making, and reflexivity into everyday clinical nursing practice. The module will also enable the learner to manage delivery of person-centered care effectively in a safe, caring and competent manner, essential to the art and science of nursing, whilst taking personal and professional accountability for own actions and/or omissions. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate proficiency in the provision of person-centred nursing care and management of holistic nursing process in partnership with patients/clients with various health concerns, and their family within a variety of professional practice settings. 2. Appraise available, accessible, and meaningful resources in order to efficiently and effectively deliver and manage nursing care to individuals with health concerns. 3. Practice diverse communication skills and interpersonal relations at proficient level within a caring therapeutic milieu with persons/ patients/clients, his/her family, and MDT. 4. Develop problem-solving skills, integrate evidence-based knowledge including reflective practice sessions to support clinical judgement and appraise own practice. 5. Appraise policies and protocols to ensure safety of persons/patients/clients, staff, and general public. 6. Practice in accordance with the limits of own competence in accordance with moral, ethical and legal frameworks, and apply responsibility and accountability as outlined in Code of Professional Conduct and Ethics for Registered Nurses and registered Midwives (NMBI 2021) and the Scope of Professional practice (NMBI 2016). 7. Integrate evidence-based knowledge including reflective practice sessions to support clinical judgement and appraise own practice. 8. Evaluate and deliver health education/promotion plans which address the short medium and lifelong learning needs of persons/patients/clients and population groups. 9. Delegate to other nurses activities commensurate with their competence and within their scope of professional practice. 10. Practise the concept of reflection and its application in practice to enhance the personal and professionaldevelopment of self and others	25	Mandatory

Progression

Follow up programmes elsewhere include:

Master of Science in Advancing Health & Social Care
Master of Science in Therapeutic Interventions for Alcohol & Other Drugs
Master degrees in institutes and universities at home and abroad

Download a prospectus

Undergraduate Prospectus

Entry Requirements

Leaving Certificate Entry Requirement	6 subjects at O6/H7 2 subjects at H5 English or Irish at O6/H7 Maths at O6/H7 Physics or Chemistry or Physics with Chemistry or Biology or Agricultural Science at O6/H7
QQI/FET Major Award Required	One of the following awards: DCHSN/ 5M4349 – Nursing Studies DCHSX/ 5M4468 – Community Health Services DHSXX/ 5M4339 – Healthcare Support 5M3782 – Health Service Skills
Additional QQI/FET/ Requirements	5 Distinctions which must include: D20001 or 5N0749 Anatomy and Physiology D20012 or 5N4325 Introduction to Nursing or Nursing Theory and Practice D20032 or 5N1279 or C20006 or 5N2746 Human Growth and Development or Biology
Garda Vetting	Entrants to this programme will be required to undergo vetting by An Garda Síochána.

Fees

Total Fees EU: €3000

This annual student contribution charge is subject to change by Government. Additional tuition fees may apply. Click on the link below for more information on fees, grants and scholarships.

Further information on fees