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Cervical Smear Takers Course (NZQA Level 7)

Objective

A programme primarily for Registered Nurses to provide the theoretical knowledge and clinical training necessary to begin the process of becoming a registered smear taker.

Requirements

• A sponsoring doctor or an approved cervical smear taker who will supervise the thirty cervical smears required as part of this training programme.
• Indemnity Insurance cover.

Course Content

• Anatomy, physiology and pathology of the female pelvis
• Sexuality
• Barriers to cervical screening
• Cervical cytology
• National screening programme
• Cultural issues
• Sexually transmissible infections
• Laboratory input and colposcopy

WHAT DO YOU GET?

NZQA Unit Standard 1098

Approved by the Midwifery Council of New Zealand and allocated 15 points with an additional 5 points if the assessment is completed

A supportive learning environment

Knowledge to use with your clients in every day practice

A chance to network

GTA Session*

A GTA session is an optional part of the Cervical Smear course offered in some areas. It gives students the opportunity to practice an examination and insertion of speculum in a non-threatening environment. GTAs are Gynaecological Teaching Associates – women who assume the role of a `client’ and have been trained to feedback to training nurses about the vaginal examination being undertaken. Each student will do two examinations to visualise the cervix. There will be only two or three students with each GTA.

*GTA Sessions are currently offered in Auckland and Christchurch only.

Course Fee

$750 (incl GST) for 3 day theory course, clinical practice and final assessment. There is an additional $50 charge for a GTA session.
(There may be additional costs involved if FPA assessors have to travel more than 30km for the clinical assessment)

Training Grant

In December 2002 the National Screening Unit announced its intention to reimburse smear taker course fees up to $500 per person for nurses who successfully complete the requirements of an NZQA accredited cervical smear taker training course. 

More information about who is eligible for this training grant is available on www.nzno.org.nz or www.healthywomen.co.nz.

Please note that should you wish to apply for this grant evidence is required that you yourself paid for the course. For FPA to provide this evidence we need to receive a personal cheque from you. If your GP, employer or any other funder paid for your fees you will not be eligible for the training grant.

This information has been provided so that you are aware of Cervical Screening New Zealand’s criteria for the training grant, it is not a requirement or policy of NZ Family Planning Association.

Important Downloadable Student Information

2007 & 2008 Course Dates

Tiakina tōu Whakapapa
taking care of our present and future generations