When is student permitted to escort patients out with the practice area?
There are different rules for different stages in the students’ programme, details of which can be found in the students’ assessment books relevant to each year (except Child health) and should be reviewed when considering if it is appropriate to allow students to participate. The key principles are, that in 1st year students should only accompany patients out with the placement area for social companionship. Students in 1st year can only “escort” a patient if also accompanied by a suitably trained person. In year 2,different rules apply to placements throughout the year. Placement 1 is the same as year 1. By placement 2 and 3, students can escort patients at the discretion of the mentor but must consider local policies and procedures. E.g. escorting patients to theatre. In year 3, student nurses can escort patients at the discretion of their mentor. However, consideration on all occasions should be given to the learning needs of the student, and whether they have the knowledge and ski
