Advanced Diploma in Critical Care Nursing

Offered by School of Health Sciences

Post-Diploma / 8 months / TGS-2021002418

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Course Information
Learning Outcomes
Course Schedule
Lesson Plan
Trainer Profile
Certification
Entry Requirements
Course Fees

Course Information

Caring for critically ill patients is a highly challenging but rewarding endeavour requiring attention to detail, the ability to stay calm in a crisis, and excellent communication skills. Your work as a critical care nurse could see you in diverse settings from private practices to intensive care units in a hospital where your skills, knowledge and compassion are needed to touch, change and heal lives.

Learning Outcomes

This advanced course equips you with an in-depth understanding of Singapore’s health system and its management, and provides you with an advanced clinical education to enable you to educate, counsel and manage critically ill patients.

You will also be aware of the legal and medical issues in nursing practice, as well as the alerted conditions of major body systems due to diseases. If you are already working in intensive care/high dependency units, and medical/surgical wards, you will get to update your skills and knowledge, and gain greater competency in critical care nursing.

Course 
Schedule

Application Period: TBC, Register Interest Now for Apr 2025 Intake
Course start date: TBC
Course end date: TBC*
(*Date may be extended if student needs to make-up for the days that he/she was absent during clinical practicum.)

Course structure delivery mode:

  • Classes: Full-time delivery mode (Mon – Fri, 8am – 6pm)
  • Clinical practicum at assigned clinical areas: Mon – Fri according to duty roster

 

Post-Diploma Certificate 1

(4 modules)

8 Apr 2024 – 24 May 2024 (7 weeks classes)
Study / Examination 27 May 2024 – 31 May 2024 (1 week)
Break 3 Jun 2024 – 7 Jun 2024 (1 week)
Post-Diploma Certificate 2 (1 module) 10 Jun 2024 – 21 Jun 2024 (2 weeks clinical practice)
Break 24 Jun 2024 – 28 Jun 2024 (1 week)
Post-Diploma Certificate 3 (4 modules) 1 Jul 2024 – 30 Aug 2024 (9 weeks classes)
Study / Examination 2 Sep 2024 – 13 Sep 2024 (2 weeks)
Break 16 Sep 2024 – 20 Sep 2024 (1 week)
Post-Diploma Certificate 4 (1 module) 23 Sep 2024 – 24 Nov 2024 (9 weeks clinical practice)

Ngee Ann Polytechnic reserves the right to reschedule / cancel any programme, modify the fees and amend information without prior notice.

Lesson Plan

Post-Diploma Certificate in Applied Sciences in Advanced Nursing (TGS-2021002422*)

*Administrative Note: TGS Numbers for this certificate course are different depending on the diploma programme. See details below:

Advanced Diploma in Nursing (Chronic Disease Management) (ADNC1) TGS No: TGS-2021002422

Advanced Diploma in Perioperative Nursing (ADPO1) TGS No: TGS-2021002425

Module
Health Assessment and Clinical Decision Making
This module aims to provide the students with comprehensive foundation and principles of health assessment in clinical nursing practice. It will also provide comprehensive skills necessary to obtain data through complete health history taking and physical examination. Emphasis will be placed on the holistic and comprehensive approach of assessment. Variations of normality in the older persons will be taken into considerations in the assessment findings. Together with the relevant laboratory data, this module also equips the students with necessary knowledge underpinning the skills to make informed clinical decisions.
Module
Applied Pathophysiology and Pharmacology
This module aims to provide students with knowledge and understanding of pathophysiologic and pharmacologic considerations. This module will enable the students to gain a better understanding of underlying disease processes and relate the basic principles of pharmacology and the nursing process to selected drugs and their therapeutic use.
Module
Evidence-Based Practice
This module aims to provide the students with the knowledge and application underpinnings the evidence-based practice. Based on the 5 steps of evidence-based practice, the students will learn to convert information into an answerable clinical question (ask), track down best evidence for answering the question (acquire), critically appraise evidence (appraise), integrate evidence into clinical decision making (application), and evaluate and seek ways to improve the next time (audit).
Module
Care Management Across Life Span
This module focuses on the current trends that affect the healthcare and financial systems in Singapore. Emphasis will be placed on integrated care, collaboration and coordination to provide continuity of care of patients with special needs in a variety of healthcare settings. The principles and concepts of palliative care, case management, disease management, medical-surgical nursing and transitional care will be discussed.
Post-Diploma Certificate in Clinical Practicum in Advanced Nursing (TGS-2021002420*)

*Administrative Note: TGS Numbers for this course are different depending on the diploma programme. See details below:

Advanced Diploma in Nursing (Chronic Disease Management) (ADNC1) TGS No: TGS-2021002420

Advanced Diploma in Perioperative Nursing (ADPO1) TGS No: TGS-2021002426

Module
Clinical Practicum in Advanced Nursing
The module provides the student opportunities to synthesize and apply the knowledge and practical skills learned in Post-Diploma Certificate 1 (Health Assessment and Clinical Decision Making, Applied Pathophysiology and Pharmacology, Evidence-Based Practice and Care Management Across Life Span) to the 2-week of broad-based Clinical Practicum in Advanced Nursing module. The students will be assigned to one of the following clinical settings that is different from their specialty attachment.
  • Acute care
  • Intermediate and long-term care
  • Primary care
  • Geriatric centres
  • Mental Health Care
Post-Diploma Certificate in Advanced Critical Care Nursing (TGS-2018500318)
Module
Fundamentals in Critical Care Nursing
This module aims to provide students with an understanding and comprehensive foundation on the fundamentals of critical care nursing. Critical care practices, ethical and legal issues, patient and family education, psychosocial issues, sleep alterations and management, nutrition, pain management, sedation, agitation, delirium assessment and management and end of life issues are covered in depth with integration of pathophysiology and applied human anatomy and relevant laboratory and diagnostic studies results. Advanced nursing skills that are performed commonly in the acute care setting are also included. This module equips critical care practitioners with the necessary knowledge and skills for critical thinking to make informed clinical decisions in a critical care unit.
Module
Advanced Critical Care Nursing Science I
This module aims to provide students with an understanding and comprehensive foundation on the principles of critical care nursing practice and a continuity of basic nursing science from general nursing training. Coronary, cardiovascular, respiratory, neurological diseases and altered conditions of these major body systems are covered in depth with integration of pathophysiology and applied human anatomy. Interpretation of relevant laboratory and diagnostic studies results are included and advanced nursing skills that are performed commonly in the acute care setting. This module equips critical care practitioners with the necessary knowledge of diseases and skills for critical thinking to make informed clinical decisions.
Module
Advanced Critical Care Nursing Science II
This module aims to provide students with an understanding and comprehensive foundation on the principles of critical care nursing practice and a continuity of basic nursing science from general nursing training. Gastro-intestinal, hepato-biliary, endocrine and nephrology diseases and altered conditions of these major body systems are covered in depth with integration of pathophysiology and applied human anatomy. Interpretation of relevant laboratory and diagnostic studies results are included and advanced nursing skills that are performed commonly in the acute care setting, this module serves to equip critical care practitioners with the necessary knowledge of diseases and skills for critical thinking to make informed clinical decisions.
Module
Advanced Critical Care Nursing Practice
This module aims to provide students with an understanding and comprehensive foundation on the principles of critical care nursing practice. It will also provide comprehensive skills necessary to obtain data through health history, physical examination together with identifying relevant laboratory data, monitoring adjuncts and advanced nursing skills that are performed commonly in the acute care setting. This module serves to equip critical care practitioners with the necessary skills for critical thinking to make informed clinical decisions in the management of critically ill patients.
Post-Diploma Certificate in Advanced Clinical Practicum in Critical Care Nursing (TGS-2018500315)
Module
Advanced Clinical Practicum in Critical Care Nursing
The module provides the student opportunities to provide direct patient / family care and gain clinical experience in critical care settings, acute and caring of older adults with acute and chronic disorders in acute setting like coronary care, cardiovascular, neurosurgical and medical surgical intensive care units. Nurses will provide care for the critically ill patients and support their families. These clinical practices provide an overall analysis of the practice of critical care nursing.

Trainer's Profile

Caroline Lee Ho Yee

Caroline Lee holds a Master in Education and a PGD HE; both from NIE. She also holds a Bachelor in Nursing (Applied Science) and a Post-Basic Certificate in Critical Care Nursing. Caroline is a registered nurse. 

Caroline’s key domain and areas of practice are in general nursing and critical care nursing. She presented her paper entitled “Connecting Generations: Service-Learning as a Tool for Building a Foundation to Gerontology Nursing” at the prestigious 7th Asia-Pacific Regional Conference on Service-Learning in April 2019. 

Caroline is currently a lecturer in Ngee Ann Polytechnic and is the Programme Lead in critical care nursing. She was the proud recipient of STA in 2018/2019 and will again receive the award for 2023/2024. 

Caroline also double hats as a practicum coach for new colleagues to develop their confidence and competencies in adapting and implementing good Teaching and Learning strategies and practices in the classroom. 

Clarissa Lee Vwen Chia

Clarissa is a highly experienced nursing professional with over a decade of expertise in both clinical practice and nursing education. She holds a Master’s in Education, a Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education (PGDHE), a Bachelor’s in Nursing, and an Advanced Diploma in Nursing (Critical Care). Before transitioning into education, Clarissa worked as a Critical Care Nurse and Nurse Clinician, gaining invaluable hands-on experience in the complexities of critical care settings. This experience allows her to effectively bridge the gap between theory and practice, preparing future nurses for the realities of healthcare.

Currently a Senior Lecturer and Senior Education Specialist at the School of Health Sciences, Clarissa teaches both full-time and part-time diploma courses, specialising in general and critical care nursing. Her innovative teaching methods have earned her recognition as a finalist for the prestigious President’s Teaching Award in 2023, highlighting her dedication to educational excellence.

Hazel Lim Wai Ling

Hazel is a nursing professional and educator with a Master of Public Health and a Bachelor of Health Science (Nursing). She brings academic nursing foundations and research-related experiences to her role as a polytechnic lecturer, where she has been shaping the minds of future nurses since 2011.

With a five-year diverse work experience in dermatology, renal, and general wards as a nurse, and completed later by several years of research as a research nurse and research assistant, Hazel contributed to impactful studies that have advanced her understanding of various healthcare fields.

Hazel has made contributions to research, particularly in the areas of dementia and healthcare technology. Her published works include "Knowledge and Attitudes towards Dementia among the General Public in Singapore: A Comparative Analysis," featured in Dementia and Geriatric Cognitive Disorders in April 2023, and "Introducing a Healthcare-Assistive Robot in Primary Care: A Preliminary Questionnaire Survey," published in Frontiers in Robotics and AI in May 2023. These publications reflect her dedication to exploring innovative solutions and addressing public health issues.

In her teaching role, Hazel provides students with hands-on experience and bridges the gap between theory and practice. Hazel’s combination of clinical experience, research expertise, and teaching excellence makes her an invaluable asset to both her students and the broader healthcare community.

Ismail Maideen

Ismail is a highly qualified and dedicated professional with over four decades of experience in nursing and education. He holds an impressive array of credentials, including an Advanced Certificate in Learning and Assessment, a Master’s in Education, a Graduate Diploma in Professional Studies in Education, a Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education (PGDHE), a Bachelor of Health Science (Nursing), and a Post-Basic Certificate in Critical Care Nursing.

In his clinical career, Ismail worked in the Cardiothoracic Surgical Critical Care Unit, where he provided care to critically ill patients and led clinical teams in a high-stakes environment. His expertise in critical care was further enhanced by his role as a Clinical Research Head Nurse, overseeing and conducting research that contributed to advancements in patient care. Prior to his critical care experience, Ismail worked in the emergency department, where he gained valuable experience in acute and emergency care. His diverse clinical background has provided him with a deep understanding of the complexities of healthcare, which he now applies to his teaching.

As an Associate Lecturer, Ismail teaches both full-time and part-time courses in nursing and healthcare, specializing in general and critical care nursing. A seasoned educator and healthcare professional, he is passionate about empowering students with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities needed to excel in the fast-paced world of healthcare.

Sabita Zakir Hussain

Dr. Sabita is a seasoned medical professional with a rich background in both clinical practice and healthcare education. She holds an MBBS and advanced qualifications, including a Specialist Diploma in Biotechnology, a Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education, and an Advanced Certificate in Learning and Performance, combining her medical expertise with strong educational skills.

With over a decade of clinical experience as a medical officer in three different countries, Dr. Sabita has provided comprehensive care to patients across multiple specialties, serving both adult and pediatric populations in various healthcare settings.

In her role as an educator, Dr. Sabita is passionate about sharing her extensive knowledge and experience with future healthcare professionals. She teaches full-time and part-time courses, specialising in anatomy and physiology, applied pathophysiology, pharmacology, and human biosciences. Her teaching approach focuses on building foundational knowledge while encouraging learners to develop critical thinking and clinical reasoning skills essential for effective patient care.

Dr. Sabita’s diverse experience in medicine and education uniquely equips her to play a significant role in shaping the development of aspiring healthcare professionals, fostering their growth and preparing them for the challenges of the healthcare industry.

Tan Hong Yong

Dr. Tan is a medical professional and educator with a unique blend of expertise in both medicine and economics. Holding an MBBS and a Bachelor of Science in Economics, he has developed a multidisciplinary approach to healthcare and education.

With nearly a decade of medical work experience, Dr. Tan understands the complexities and demands of the changing healthcare environment. This extensive clinical background allows him to bring practical insights and real-world applications into his teaching. He teaches full-time and part-time nursing and healthcare-related courses, focusing on health assessment, anatomy and physiology, human biosciences, applied pathophysiology and pharmacology, and biology. His teaching approach lays the foundational knowledge that encourages his learners to think critically and reason so they can provide better care in a dynamic healthcare environment.

He has applied his leadership skills and economic acumen to be instrumental in aligning educational strategies with industry needs, ensuring the modules he is leading are both relevant and forward-thinking.

Dr. Tan’s educational philosophy integrates clinical expertise, economic understanding, and strategic management to prepare students for the multifaceted challenges of modern healthcare. He is committed to fostering a learning environment that encourages critical thinking, innovation, and continuous professional development.

Certification

1 Advanced Diploma
4 Post-Diploma Certificates
10 Modules

Certification

You are required to complete the 4 post-diploma certificates within 2-year validity period to be awarded the Advanced Diploma qualification.


Entry Requirements

Applicants with any of the following qualifications are invited to apply for the course:
  • A local Polytechnic Diploma/ Degree in Health Sciences (Nursing) or equivalent

    • Be a Registered Nurse with valid practicing certificate from the Singapore Nursing Board (SNB); and
    • Have at least 2 years of clinical nursing practice; and

    • Have a minimum of 1 year practice in the nursing speciality – nursing practice related to the care of critically ill patients

Successful applicants will need to undergo a compulsory medical examination and vaccinations before semester starts. Please see details and refer to instructions in the medical examination form (Click here for medical examination form) for submission of all the required documents.

Course Fees

Funding period for this course is from 1 Apr 2020 to 31 Dec 2024.

SkillsFuture Credit
All Singaporeans aged 25 and above can use their $500 SkillsFuture Credit from the government to pay for a wide range of approved skills-related courses. Visit the SkillsFuture Credit website to choose from the courses available on the Training Exchange course directory. The credits can be used on top of existing course fee subsidies/funding. This is only applicable for self-sponsored applicants and must be applied via the SkillsFuture Portal. More details on the SkillsFuture Credit Claims will be advised upon admission into the course.

Union Training Assistance Programme (UTAP)
NTUC members enjoy 50% unfunded course fee support for up to $250 each year (or up to $500 for NTUC members aged 40 years old and above) when you sign up for courses supported under UTAP (Union Training Assistance Programme). Please visit e2i’s website to find out more.

Skills-Based Modular Courses (SBMCs) are bite-sized part-time courses for individuals to acquire new skills or deepen relevant skills, without the need to pursue a full diploma. Refer here for course fees for SBMCs.

GST Increment in 2024
Please note that the GST rate will be revised to 9% with effect from 1 Jan 2024, as such any payable course fees will be subjected to the new GST rate adjustments in 2024. Please refer to our STEP portal for the updated fees. (Click on STEP)

Note:

  • Please refer to our FAQs for more information.
  • The fees below are determined based on prevailing funding policies and subject to review and revision.

Ngee Ann Polytechnic reserves the right to reschedule/cancel any programme, modify the fees and amend information without prior notice.

Applicants / Eligibility Fees
Full Course fee$21372.72
Singapore Citizen Aged 40 & Above$2137.28
PR Sponsored by SME$2225.50
Singapore Citizen Sponsored by SME$2225.50
Singapore Citizen Aged Below 40$3205.90
Singapore PR$8549.08
Long-Term Visit Pass Plus$21372.72