Apprenticeship as a generalist nurse (m/f/d) at Jena University Hospital
‘Nursing with perspective’, Nika, trainee generalist nurse, UKJ
Nika Weißleder is in her first year of training as a generalist nurse at Jena University Hospital (UKJ). In this interview, she explains why she decided to do the apprenticeship, what challenges she has to overcome and what prospects the profession offers.
Why did you decide to train as a nurse?
I worked in a nursing home for two and a half years while I was still at school and realised that I was particularly interested in medicine. That’s why I decided to train here at the UKJ – the medical focus is simply stronger than in a nursing home. The UKJ also offers many different wards and development opportunities, so I can always familiarise myself with new areas.
Why did you choose an apprenticeship over studying?
I think it’s important to work practically right from the start. A dual study programme would also have been an option, but I opted for an apprenticeship after all. I enjoy working directly with the patients.
What are the requirements for the apprenticeship?
You need at least a good secondary school leaving certificate. School grades are not the most important thing, but you shouldn’t have the worst grades in the basic subjects. It is much more important to enjoy working with people. You don’t have to be extroverted, but you do need to be open to different people and cultures.
How does the apprenticeship work?
The training programme lasts three years and consists of theoretical and practical assignments. My orientation placement was in cardiology. This is followed later by outpatient nursing, inpatient long-term care and a placement in paediatric nursing, for example. I chose palliative care for my intermediate examination placement because it particularly interests me. The variety of assignments is a great advantage because you don’t have to commit yourself. There are both surgical and internal medicine areas – that makes the training super varied.
What are the biggest challenges in the apprenticeship?
You sometimes end up on wards that you haven’t heard about in class. There are also extreme situations, such as reanimations, which can be emotionally stressful. But you have experienced professionals, training supervisors and practice supervisors at your side and learn how to deal with them.
What have been the best moments in your apprenticeship so far?
The gratitude of the patients is incredible. And when you are well received in a team and realise that you belong, it makes the work even more valuable.
What development opportunities are there for nursing staff in Jena and how good are the chances of being taken on after training?
After successfully completing generalist training, I can go into many areas, including geriatric care, paediatric nursing or outpatient services – anything is possible. There are also numerous further and advanced training courses, for example in intensive or emergency care. If you want, you can also study later – for example, vocational education to become a teacher for the nursing professions.
The chances of being taken on are excellent! As the demand for nursing staff is high, with good grades you have the best prospects of a permanent and secure position.
What do you particularly like about working and living in Jena?
I moved to Jena 15 years ago and really like the city. It’s not too big and not too small, has lots of young people and is surrounded by nature. You can do a lot without it getting too hectic.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering training as a nurse in Jena?
An internship at the UKJ is very helpful to gain a realistic insight. I didn’t do this before, but many of my colleagues say that it helped them to make the right decision.
Is there a preconception about the nursing profession that you would like to correct?
Many people think that carers do nothing but basic care. But we have a lot of responsibility! We are the first to realise when a patient is getting worse. Doctors only get a lot of information from us. It’s definitely more than just a ‘helper’s job’.
Is there a special skill or trick that you have learnt through nursing and now use in your everyday life?
I think I wash my hands more often. 😉
Training as a generalist nurse offers many prospects – from varied training and exciting assignments to excellent career opportunities. If you are looking for a profession with meaning and enjoy practical work, you should apply!
Facts and figures about training as a generalist nurse
- Duration: 3 years
- Start: September and March
- Remuneration (gross/month)
- 1st year: 1,380.70 euros
- 2nd year: 1,446.70 euros
- 3rd year: 1. 553.00 euros
- Theory partner: Staatliche Berufsbildende Schule für Gesundheit und Soziales Jena
- Requirements:
- a good intermediate school leaving certificate or another qualification recognised as equivalent or a secondary general school leaving certificate or another qualification recognised as equivalent, together with
- a) successfully completed vocational training (at least two years)
- b) successfully completed state-regulated assistant or helper training in nursing
- a good intermediate school leaving certificate or another qualification recognised as equivalent or a secondary general school leaving certificate or another qualification recognised as equivalent, together with
Similar training occupations
- Nursing specialist (m/f/d) with specialisation in paediatric nursing
- Health and nursing assistant (m/f/d)
Study
- Nursing dual (B. Sc.)