Build skills in anaesthetics/recovery or scrub/scout nursing with this graduate certificate from CDU Online.
Title: Graduate Certificate of Perioperative Nursing
Provider: Charles Darwin University
Location: Online, Northern Territory, Australia
About
The Graduate Certificate of Perioperative Nursing is designed for registered nurses to specialise in perioperative care. It focuses on anaesthetics/recovery or scrub/scout nursing. Participants build skills to enhance patient safety and care quality.
The course draws on evidence-based practice and research, with content aligned to global, national, and local standards. Students will engage with legal and ethical frameworks, human factors influencing care, and the role of perioperative nurses in improving outcomes.
Offered part-time over one year, this online program includes a mix of core and elective units. Assessments include online tests, written assignments, reports, and a professional portfolio.
Provider
Charles Darwin University (CDU) is an Australian university known for flexible and accessible learning. It excels in nursing and midwifery education, combining academic rigour with practical training to prepare students for career advancement.
Key Takeaways
- Specialise in anaesthetics/recovery or scrub/scout nursing roles.
- Core focus on patient safety, legal standards, and evidence-based practice.
- Flexible online delivery over one year, tailored for working professionals.
- Assessments include tests, written assignments, and case studies.
- Builds pathways to advanced roles or further study, such as the Master of Nursing.
Course Structure
This program requires completion of 40 credit points, including one core unit and two elective units from the chosen specialisation stream.
The core unit (NUR551) explores foundations of perioperative nursing, covering safety standards, legal and ethical principles, and the role of perioperative nurses in patient-centred care.
Specialisation streams include:
- Anaesthetics/Recovery Nursing:
- NUR552: Focus on patient management and pathophysiology during anaesthesia and recovery.
- NUR553: Advanced knowledge of emergency and complex cases, with quality improvement projects.
- Scrub/Scout Nursing:
- NUR554: Emphasis on best practices for creating safe surgical environments.
- NUR555: Advanced study of scrub/scout nursing across specialities and emergencies.
Assessments include online tests, written assignments (2,500-3,000 words), discussion posts, and professional portfolios. Visit the course page for further details.
Why This Course Is Worthwhile
This nursing certificate helps you develop specialised skills for perioperative care, making you a valuable asset in hospitals and healthcare settings. It prepares you to handle challenges like emergency situations and patient safety while improving the quality of care you provide.
The program is built around industry standards, ensuring the knowledge you gain is practical and relevant. You can apply what you learn to your role, making an impact on your work.
With a mix of hands-on learning and assessments, this course prepares you for career progression into leadership, advanced clinical roles, or further studies like a master’s degree.
Related: Graduate Certificate in Perioperative Nursing Online
How Online Study Works
CDU's online delivery uses a mix of self-paced and interactive learning, designed for working professionals.
Students access comprehensive study plans and resources, including recorded lectures, case studies, and peer discussions. Assessments such as tests and written projects are completed through a user-friendly platform.
Support includes access to academic staff, online forums, and learning tools. Flexible timelines and structured guidance allow students to balance study with work and personal commitments.