Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) Courses
Nursing Studies (DCHSN Level 5)

This course is designed to give a solid foundation in the theory and practice of Health Science for those entering the nursing, para-medical or community care service.

Anatomy and Physiology Level 5
Learners who successfully complete this module will:

• acquire knowledge of the structure and function of the human body
• recognise the human body as an entity
• understand the interrelationship between the systems of the body

Safety and Health at Work Level 5
Learners who successfully complete this module will:

• understand the concepts of safety and health
• recognise the factors that influence health, safety and welfare
• apply the principles and procedures of health and safety to the workplace
• understand the importance of hazard identification and risk assessment
• promote safe working practices and procedures
• be familiar with core legislation in the area of safety, health and welfare

Introduction to Nursing Level 5
Learners who successfully complete this module will:

• outline the history and development of nursing
• acquire a knowledge of the structure and function of the health care service in the Republic of Ireland
• know the various disciplines and specialities within nursing
• understand the nursing process
• appreciate the models of care
• be aware of nursing ethics and etiquette in care situations
• communicate effectively in ways that are consistent with the carer's role
• avoid occupational hazards
• become familiar with common nursing/medical terminology
• perform a range of basic skills

Child Development Level 5
Learners who successfully complete this module will:

• understand the concept of progression in child development
• identify and respond appropriately to children’s developmental needs in the home and the early years setting
• appreciate variations within the normal range of development
• recognise the contribution of adults to the development of children
• recognise the value of observation as a learning and research tool for the childcare worker
• understand the integrated role of play and development

Nutrition Level 5
Learners who successfully complete this module will:

• be familiar with the composition of food
• evaluate the nutritional content of food
• understand the relationship between health and nutrition
• interpret current dietary information and recommendations
• examine eating habits
• be familiar with the nutritional needs of different groups of people
• acquire a range of practical techniques

Word Processing Level 5
Learners who successfully complete this module will:

• acquire a thorough working knowledge of a word processing package
• be familiar with an operating system
• develop the skills of personal initiative and resourcefulness
• develop good work practices in relation to the use of the computer, printer and materials
• acquire the skills necessary to produce attractive documents to mailable standard

Communications Level 5
Learners who successfully complete this module will:

• develop an awareness of the essential role played by communication in human interaction
• acquire communication skills relevant to vocational and personal development
• understand the communicative principles and practices involved in gathering and relaying information
• acquire the skills and confidence to convey and interpret meaning, in writing, orally and visually
• develop a critical awareness of communications messages and media
• explore the use of modern communication and information technology, and its application in personal and vocational life

Work Experience Level 5
Learners who successfully complete this module will:

• develop critical awareness of the changing nature of work
• set achievable goals for work experience
• utilise learning opportunities presented in the work environment
• apply work skills to consolidate learning in the vocational area
• understand how work is planned and organised at different levels in a specific vocational area
• appreciate the importance of safety and welfare in the workplace
• develop capabilities, both personal and vocational, to successfully meet challenges in the workplace
• review career choices in the light of their own aspirations, experience, abilities and available options
• explore future employment opportunities (including opportunities for self employment, contract work, work in the social economy, etc)