The new generalist nursing training
What does "generalist" or "generalist nursing training" mean?
By merging the three previous nursing professions in the areas of "elderly care", "health and general nursing" and "health and pediatric nursing", a new professional profile of the "nursing professional" is created.
Upon completion of this training, all trainees are qualified to provide care for people of all ages and in all care settings, thereby creating better employment and development opportunities.
Is it possible to specialize in a particular area during the training?
Yes, trainees can specialize in a particular area during their training. If future nursing professionals wish to specialize in geriatric care, they can complete an advanced placement in outpatient or inpatient acute and long-term care with a focus on long-term care, which leads to a separate qualification as a "geriatric nurse" in the final third of their training.
The same applies to the qualification as a "Health and Pediatric Nurse". If future nursing professionals wish to specialize in pediatric nursing, they can complete an advanced placement in pediatric care, which leads to a separate qualification as a "Health and Pediatric Nurse" in the final third of their training.
The right to choose should be exercised between four and six months before the start of the last third of the training; by this time, the trainees will have already become familiar with all relevant areas of deployment.
What is the "provider of practical training"?
The term "provider of practical training" refers to the institution that undertakes the practical training.
The following institutions can be "providers of practical training":
- outpatient care services that have concluded supply contracts with the nursing care and health insurance funds.
- inpatient and outpatient care facilities that have concluded a care contract with the health insurance funds,
- Hospitals authorized to provide care.
How long does the training last? Under what conditions can it be shortened?
The full-time training to become a registered nurse takes three years.
Upon application, the general nursing training can be shortened if another successfully completed training program, or parts thereof, can be credited towards the training duration. Further qualification as a nursing assistant can also shorten the training period.
What qualifications are required?
The entry requirement for the training is a secondary school leaving certificate, meaning at least ten years of general education. A nine-year lower secondary school leaving certificate combined with training as a nursing assistant or care assistant is also acceptable. It is also possible to begin the training if you have completed another vocational training program with a minimum duration of two years.
Furthermore, a current health certificate and, if necessary, an official certificate of good conduct must be submitted. Fluency in German is also mandatory in order to communicate with patients and staff.
Can the training also be completed part-time or while working?
General nursing training can be completed part-time or while working. However, this can extend the training period to up to five years.
Do tuition fees have to be paid for generalist nursing training?
No, the general nursing training is free for all trainees. Furthermore, the school must provide all necessary teaching and learning materials free of charge. Similarly, the organization responsible for practical training is obligated to provide all training materials, instruments, and equipment free of charge.
Furthermore, trainees must be paid appropriate remuneration.
What will change for prospective nursing professionals who are already in training?
For trainees currently enrolled in training programs under the old nursing or geriatric care laws, the introduction of the generalist training program will not change anything. These future nursing professionals will continue their training as normal and, upon successful completion of their exams, will receive their qualification as a "geriatric nurse" or a "health and (pediatric) nurse."
We know that caregiving is a very complex topic that can raise many questions. Therefore, we are happy to assist you if you require further information.
