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Faculty of Nursing: Contextualised Graduate Attributes

12/07/2003: This draft statement has been ratified for use by the faculty. 		back
 
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Contact Maureen Ahern, 9351 0628, mahern@nursing.usyd.edu.au


Research and Inquiry. Graduates of the Faculty of Nursing will be able to create new knowledge and understanding through the process of research and inquiry.
  • Values research in contributing to development in nursing and improved standards of care.
  • Critically evaluate existing nursing knowledge and recognise the limitations of that knowledge.
  • Have an informed respect for the principles, values and boundaries of their own nursing knowledge.
  • Uses the most current nursing research as a guide to decision-making in all nursing practice settings.
  • Exercise critical thinking to foster new understanding.
  • Understands the management of care in relation to nursing with regard to meeting the minimum competency standards as outlined by the Nurses Registration Board of NSW

Information Literacy. Graduates of the Faculty of Nursing will be able to use information effectively in a range of contexts.
  • A recognition and ability to undertake life-long learning.
  • Recognise the extent of information needed for professional nursing practice.
  • Understand legal, economic, social, cultural, professional and contextual issues for nursing.
  • Use contemporary media, technology, library and relevant databases to access and manage information.
  • The ability to evaluate information and the reliability of its sources.

Personal and Intellectual Autonomy. Graduates of the Faculty of Nursing will be able to work independently and sustainably, in a way that is informed by openness, curiosity and a desire to meet new challenges.
  • The ability to restore as much health as desired or possible following an illness, trauma or other health crisis.
  • The ability to support and work therapeutically with patients and families who have chronic, terminal or untreatable illnesses.
  • Awareness that the role of the registered nurse includes accountability, acceptance of trust from others, and acceptance of the responsibility that is embedded in the nursing role.
  • A commitment to continuing professional development and evaluation of personal values.

Ethical, Social and Professional Understanding. Graduates of the Faculty of Nursing will hold personal values and beliefs consistent with their role as responsible members of local, national, international and professional communities
  • An awareness and understanding of the impact of socio-cultural factors on the health of individuals.
  • Understand the relationship between ethics and good patient care as clinical decisions directly affect the dignity, welfare and well being of patients.
  • Ethically justify their decisions, interventions and actions.
  • Respond to the ethical implications of practice in appropriate and meaningful ways.
  • Protects the rights of individuals and groups in relation to health care.
  • Is committed to sensitive, compassionate, humane and professional behaviour.

Communication. Graduates of the Faculty of Nursing will recognise and value communication as a tool for negotiating and creating new understanding, interacting with others, and furthering their own learning.
  • The ability to communicate nursing knowledge effectively to patients, families, colleagues and other health care professionals.
  • Is an emphatic listener to the worries of patients, their families and friends and can respond effectively.
  • Manages effectively the nursing care of individuals and groups by appropriate organization and/or delegation.
  • Collaborates and cooperates with other members of the health care team.