CNA756 Foundations of Perioperative Nursing Theory Assessment Task 2: Critical Essay
Students enrolled in CNA756 Foundations of Perioperative Nursing Theory at the University of Tasmania often seek guidance on assessment tasks, including essays on ethical issues, infection control, and patient safety in perioperative settings. This assignment brief outlines a common essay task aligned with unit learning outcomes for 2025.
The Graduate Certificate in Advanced Nursing (Perioperative Specialisation) at the University of Tasmania prepares registered nurses for specialised roles in operating theatres, drawing on ACORN standards and evidence-based practice.
Assessment Overview
Task: Write a critical essay analysing key principles in perioperative nursing theory.
Word Count: 2000 words (±10%)
Weighting: 50% of unit grade
Due Date: End of Semester (specific date provided in MyLO)
Assignment Instructions
Select one of the following topics and critically discuss its application to perioperative nursing practice, drawing on relevant theory, evidence, and professional standards (e.g., ACORN Standards for Perioperative Nursing in Australia).
- Analyse the ethical and legal issues arising in the perioperative environment, including informed consent, patient advocacy, and management of vulnerable patients.
- Evaluate the principles of infection prevention and control in the operating suite, including operating room design, human factors, and strategies to reduce surgical site infections.
- Discuss the application of human factors and patient safety principles to improve efficiency and minimise errors in the perioperative setting.
In your essay:
- Provide a clear introduction outlining the topic and your argument.
- Critically analyse relevant literature and evidence.
- Link theory to perioperative nursing practice.
- Include implications for professional practice and patient outcomes.
- Conclude with key insights and recommendations.
Requirements
- Use Harvard referencing style.
- Minimum of 12 peer-reviewed sources, with preference for publications from 2018 onwards.
- Submit via MyLO as a Word document.
- Adhere to academic integrity standards.
- Structure with headings and subheadings for clarity.
Marking Criteria
| Criteria | Weight | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Critical analysis and depth of discussion | 40% | Demonstrates critical thinking, synthesis of evidence, and application to practice. |
| Use of evidence and referencing | 20% | Integrates current, relevant literature with accurate Harvard referencing. |
| Understanding of perioperative theory | 20% | Accurate and comprehensive coverage of key concepts. |
| Structure, clarity, and academic writing | 15% | Logical flow, clear expression, and adherence to word limit. |
| Professional implications | 5% | Clear links to nursing practice and patient safety. |
References
Hamlin, L., Davies, M., Richardson-Tench, M. and Sutherland-Fraser, S. (eds) (2021) Perioperative nursing: an introduction. 3rd edn. Elsevier Australia. Available at: https://www.elsevierhealth.com.au/perioperative-nursing-9780729543385.html.
Australian College of Perioperative Nurses (ACORN) (2024) Standards for safe and quality perioperative nursing care in Australia. 17th edn. ACORN. Available at: https://www.acorn.org.au/standards (Accessed: 30 December 2025).
Gillespie, B.M., Harbeck, E., Lavin, J., Gardiner, T., Marshall, A.P. and Finlayson, K. (2019) ‘Using normalisation process theory to evaluate the implementation of a complex perioperative care bundle’, Journal of Perioperative Nursing, 32(2), pp. 7-16. doi: 10.26573/jpn.v32i2.123.
Sutherland-Fraser, S., Osborne, S. and Hamlin, L. (2020) ‘Infection prevention in the perioperative setting’, in Hamlin, L. et al. (eds) Perioperative nursing: an introduction. 3rd edn. Elsevier Australia, pp. 145-168.
Rothrock, J.C. (ed.) (2022) Alexander’s care of the patient in surgery. 17th edn. Elsevier. doi: 10.1016/B978-0-323-64240-6.00001-9.
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