In Bharatpur Samudayik Hospital Ltd., PCL Nursing refers to the Proficiency Certificate Level in Nursing, a mid-level nursing program commonly offered in countries like Nepal. It is designed for individuals who want to pursue a career in nursing after completing their secondary education (typically after Grade 10 or equivalent).
PCL Nursing generally spans three years and focuses on providing foundational nursing education, clinical skills, and practical training. Graduates of the PCL Nursing program can work as staff nurses in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings or continue further studies like a Bachelor of Nursing (BN) to advance their careers.
In Nepal, colleges or institutions that wish to run a Proficiency Certificate Level (PCL) in Nursing program must meet specific requirements set by the Nepal Nursing Council (NNC) and Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training (CTEVT). Here are the general requirements:
1. Affiliation and Accreditation
The institution must obtain an affiliation from the Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training (CTEVT).
The Nepal Nursing Council (NNC) must accredit the institution to ensure the program meets nursing education standards.
2. Infrastructure
Classrooms: The institution must have well-ventilated and spacious classrooms with appropriate seating arrangements.
Library: A library with a sufficient number of nursing-related books, journals and reference materials must be available.
Laboratories: Well-equipped nursing laboratories for practical training, including tools for maternal and child health, medical-surgical care, and community health.
Hostel: Most nursing institutions are required to provide hostel facilities, especially for female students, with safe and secure accommodations.
3. Clinical Training Facilities
The institution must have access to affiliated hospitals where students can perform clinical practice. The hospital should have departments like Medical-Surgical, Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Community Health, etc.
Community Health Nursing exposure should be provided, with access to communities for fieldwork.
4. Qualified Faculty
The teaching staff must be qualified and registered with the Nepal Nursing Council. The faculty should include experienced nursing professionals holding at least a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BN/B.Sc. Nursing) or higher for certain positions.
There should be a specific student-to-faculty ratio, often 1:10 for clinical instruction.
5.Curriculum and Program Duration
The Program must follow the CTEVT-approved Curriculum for the PCL Nursing Program, Which generally spans three years.
The Curriculum should include a balance of theoretical knowledge and practical skills development.
6. Student Selection
The institution must ensure that students meet the eligibility criteria, which generally includes completion of the School leaving Certificate (SLC) or SEE exam with a minimum GPA or aggregate score, particularly in science subjects.
An entrance examination must be conducted as a part of the admission process, overseen by CTEVT.
7. Other Requirements
The institution must have provisions for conducting internal assessment, evaluations, and maintaining student records.
First aid and health services must be available within the institution for emergencies.
Legal documentation such as registration, tax clearance, and necessary governmental approvals must be in place.
Institutions that meet these requirements can apply for the necessary approvals to offer the PCL Nursing Program. The Nepal Nursing Council and CTEVT inspect the facilities and monitor compliance with the standards before granting final approval.