Post Basic Nursing refers to specialized nursing education programs undertaken after the completion of General Nursing or Midwifery training. These programs are designed to equip Registered Nurses (RN) or Registered Midwives (RM) with advanced knowledge and skills in specific areas of nursing practice.
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Post Basic Nursing programs typically last 12–18 months depending on the specialty and are regulated by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN). They provide professional nurses with deeper expertise in areas such as perioperative nursing, ophthalmic nursing, psychiatric nursing, accident and emergency nursing, and more. Graduates are awarded professional certificates that qualify them as specialists in their chosen field, improving their career prospects and patient care competence.
Examples/Applications
- A nurse specializing in Perioperative Nursing assists with surgical procedures and patient recovery.
- An Ophthalmic Nurse provides care for patients with eye conditions and supports eye surgeries.
- A Psychiatric Nurse manages patients with mental health challenges.
- An Accident and Emergency Nurse responds quickly to critical cases in emergency departments.
Post Basic Nursing Career Opportunities
Graduates of Post Basic Nursing programs have multiple career paths, including
- Specialist Nurse – working in hospitals, clinics, or specialized healthcare centers.
- Clinical Instructor – teaching nursing students in training institutions.
- Public Health Nurse – applying specialized knowledge in community healthcare.
- NGO/International Health Specialist – joining global organizations that require expert nursing care.
- Further Studies – advancing into Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc), Master’s, or Doctoral programs.
Post Basic Nursing allows Registered Nurses and Midwives to specialize in different fields of healthcare, advancing their careers while improving patient outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is eligible for Post Basic Nursing programs?
- Only Registered Nurses (RN) or Registered Midwives (RM) who have completed their general training are eligible to apply.
How long does Post Basic Nursing training take?
- Most programs last 12–18 months, depending on the specialty and institution.
What specialties are available in Post Basic Nursing?
- Common specialties include Perioperative Nursing, Ophthalmic Nursing, Accident and Emergency Nursing, Orthopedic Nursing, Psychiatric Nursing, Pediatric Nursing, Intensive Care Nursing, and Cardio-Thoracic Nursing.
Can Post Basic Nursing lead to higher qualifications?
- Yes. Nurses who complete Post Basic training can proceed to obtain a Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) or even postgraduate degrees.
Where can Post Basic Nurses work?
- They can work in hospitals, specialized clinics, teaching institutions, NGOs, and international health organizations.
Why is Post Basic Nursing important?
- It strengthens the healthcare system by producing specialist nurses who can handle complex cases and deliver advanced patient care.
