Flexible learning vaccinator foundation

Please Note: this course is only for intern Pharmacists who have been provided an access coupon via PSNZ.

The FLVFC provides information and practical skills related to the safe and effective delivery of vaccines on the National Immunisation Schedule.

Notes:

As prescribers, midwives and medical doctors need not be authorised to administer vaccines. These professional groups may still enrol in this course to gain greater understanding of vaccines and immunisation service delivery in Aotearoa/New Zealand.

Clinical assessment

• This is a requirement for attaining pharmacist or authorised vaccinator status.

• Arranging a venue to undertake the assessment is the responsibility of the course participant—neither IMAC nor local Immunisation Coordinators can arrange this. This assessment normally takes place in the vaccinator’s workplace.

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Prerequisites

• Current Annual Practising Certificate
• Knowledge and familiarity with the current Immunisation Handbook.

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Pre-reading of the following Immunisation Handbook sections:

• Introduction
• Chapter 1: General immunisation principles
• Chapter 2: Processes for safe immunisation
• Appendix 3: Immunisation standards for vaccinators and guidelines for organisations offering immunisation services‍
• Appendix 4: Authorisation of vaccinators and criteria for pharmacist vaccinators

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All course attendees mustmeet the requirements of the current Public Health Response (Vaccinations)Order and its Amendments, regardless of your current employment status. If youhave any questions regarding this, please contact Bernadette Heaphy, IMACProgramme Manager (imaceducation@auckland.ac.nz) prior to attending theface-to-face tutorial.

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Course structure

This course includes approximately 14–15* hours of online study, which can be completed at your own pace over multiple sessions if necessary. This is followed by a 3.5-hourclassroom tutorial. You will then complete an online open-book assessment in your own time within a week of completing the course work. Your certificate will be available online upon completion of all course requirements.

*Note that the estimated time is based on the core coursework – those not familiar with online learning may find it takes longer. Accessing suggested optional reading will increase the estimated time to complete.  

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Course content

• Vaccine preventable diseases
• Legislation, standards and authorisation
• The immune system
• The National Immunisation Schedule and vaccines across the lifespan
• Types and composition of vaccines
• Vaccine safety
• Storage and handling of vaccines
• Informed consent and communication
• Vaccine administration
• Improving immunisation coverage

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