Refresher Program

This module provides the latest evidence-based practices to boost your knowledge and skills in infection prevention and control. Whether you’re reviewing core concepts or diving into new developments, this comprehensive overview ensures you’re equipped to deliver the highest standards of patient care.

This module is designed to help nurses of varying experience levels refresh and expand their knowledge of physical assessment by promoting an evidence-based and systematic model that is applicable to their clinical environments. As you progress through this module, take the time to reflect on your previous nursing experiences to identify your own learning needs.

Recognising and responding promptly to clinical deterioration is a critical skill for all healthcare professionals. Early identification of warning signs can significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce the risk of serious adverse events. This module has been developed to enhance your awareness and understanding of the deteriorating patient. Through this learning experience, you will gain the knowledge and confidence to recognise and respond to deterioration.

This module guides you through the key components of a respiratory-focused patient history and physical assessment. You will also explore the nursing and medical management of common respiratory disorders, gaining insight into evidence-based practices that support optimal patient outcomes.

This module provides an opportunity to explore the complexity and dynamic nature of heart disease, with particular attention to the wide range of contributing risk factors. You will learn to assess cardiac patients using a systematic approach to gathering patient history and performing a focused physical examination. In addition, the module examines the nursing and medical management of common cardiac disorders, supporting the development of clinical knowledge and skills essential for high-quality, person-centred cardiac care.

This module explores the relationship between various risk factors and the development of neurological conditions, providing a foundation for early recognition and prevention. You will learn how to conduct a systematic neurological assessment to accurately identify and monitor patient symptoms. The module also outlines evidence-based nursing management strategies for common neurological disorders and emphasises the importance of recognising signs of clinical deterioration.

This module provides a comprehensive overview of skin anatomy, physiology, and function as a foundation for understanding wound care. You will explore the principles and phases of wound healing, along with factors that can either promote or impede this process. The module also covers systematic approaches to skin and wound assessment, the classification and management of various wound types, and the selection and application of appropriate wound care products.

This module explores the nursing role and duty of care in supporting individuals experiencing mental health challenges, highlighting the importance of compassionate, person-centred practice. You will learn to identify the key components of the Mental State Examination (MSE) and apply it appropriately in clinical contexts. The module also introduces practical strategies for managing difficult behaviours and outlines approaches to the immediate management of mental health presentations, equipping you with the knowledge and confidence to respond effectively and safely in a variety of care environments.

Maintaining professional accountability and delivering safe, evidence-based care are fundamental responsibilities for all nurses. This module supports you in reviewing and benchmarking current nursing practice against the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) codes and professional standards. You will explore the legal implications of actions taken in clinical practice, with a focus on upholding ethical and professional responsibilities. Key issues related to safe medication administration will also be examined. In addition, the module encourages reflection on your critical thinking and decision-making processes to strengthen professional judgement and enhance the quality of care provided.

To meet the recency of practice requirement, applicants must demonstrate they’ve worked clinically for at least three months within the last five years.

If you don’t meet this requirement, you’ll need a written referral letter from AHPRA. This letter should state that you’re required to complete a refresher program, which includes supervised practice, to regain your registration.

No, ACN does not arrange supervised practice hours. It is the student’s responsibility to secure these independently.

The Refresher program is self-directed, online and must be completed within three (3) months from commencement of the program. The program is made up of 9 modules and requires approximately 45 hours of study to complete.

Yes, all 9 modules need to be completed to access your certificate of completion.

Yes, if you complete the entire program then complete a final survey, you will be awarded 45 CPD hours. You will also receive a certificate.

No, this is a requirement of your employer within mandatory training.

At the end of each module is an assessment quiz. You will need to achieve a score of 80% or more in each quiz before you will be able to progress to the next module.