There are certain tasks/activities that nursing students cannot undertake until they are qualified. These may be listed in your course handbook; your practice educator should also be able to tell you. Make a note of what these are.

The skills you may not do as a student will vary across the country and in part depend on local Trust policies as well, it is therefore important to check locally, but your list may include:

• IV drug administration
• Administer a drug under a patient group directive (PGD)
• Skills such as cannulation, checking blood transfusions, using a glucometer and male catheterisation may only be possible if you have attended the relevant training session run in the placement or for some organisations students may not be allowed to do them regardless.
• Lone visiting of patients/clients in their own homes particularly for a 1st or 2nd year student.

Take a look at your university’s fitness to practise policy.

Does it identify the type of concerns that may lead to a student being referred to them?

These may vary between universities but may include concerns such as:

• Acquiring a criminal conviction or caution whilst on the course
• Submitting a fraudulent application
• Academic misconduct
• Sharing patient or service user information
• Inappropriate use of social media
• Poor health (physical or mental) or disability that calls into question your fitness to practice

What are the penalties should any allegations be upheld?

These may vary between universities but could include:

• Formal written warning
• A reflective piece of work
• A written apology
• A fine
• Suspension from the course
• Discontinuation from the course

Does it identify where you can get support and advice should you ever be called to a fitness to practise panel?

The policy should suggest you contact The Student Union or your Trade Union for advice and guidance.