Bachelor of Science HES-SO in Nursing
Informations
Contacts, documents, links, and more
Becoming a nurse means choosing an essential, human-centered, and highly skilled profession. Nurses care for people of all ages in sometimes complex health situations, drawing on their clinical expertise, professional judgment, and interpersonal skills to ensure safe, personalized, and high-quality care.
At the School of Health Fribourg (Heds FR), the Bachelor’s degree combines theoretical teaching, simulation-based training, practical experience, and the development of clinical reasoning. It prepares students to analyze complex situations, make evidence-based decisions, and collaborate effectively with other healthcare professionals.
Graduates work in a wide range of settings, including hospitals, home care, nursing and residential care facilities, mental health services, rehabilitation, and independent practice. They play a key role in care, prevention, health promotion, and supporting people throughout their lives.
The Bachelor’s degree in Nursing opens the door to a meaningful career, offering excellent employment prospects as well as numerous opportunities for specialization, advanced practice, research, management, and postgraduate education.
A program focused on quality of care and patient safety
Heds FR trains nurses who are able to meet the current and future demands of the healthcare system, drawing on the best available scientific knowledge and the highest standards of quality and patient safety.
The program prepares future nurses to address the current challenges of the profession. Students learn to make clinical decisions in partnership with patients and their families, taking into account their values and preferences, research findings, professional experience, and the care context. These decisions are guided by the values of Caring, grounded in ethics and humanism.
Through innovative teaching methods, Heds FR combines scientific knowledge with clinical, technical, and interpersonal skills to develop strong clinical reasoning and person-centered professional practice. The program emphasizes key values: commitment to patients and their families, quality and safety of care, scientific knowledge, as well as responsible practice that meets the requirements of the healthcare system.
Heds FR also has a modern simulation center, providing a safe, immersive learning environment that closely reflects real-life clinical practice. Simulations allow students to practice, experiment, and learn from their mistakes without putting patients at risk. They develop their clinical skills, clinical reasoning, and communication abilities through realistic situations, thereby strengthening their confidence and preparedness for professional practice.
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing opens up numerous professional and academic opportunities:
Professional opportunities: hospitals, mental health services, home care, outpatient centers, nursing and residential care facilities, care homes, palliative care, research, and teaching
Continuing education: Certificate of Advanced Studies (CAS), Diploma of Advanced Studies (DAS), Master of Advanced Studies (MAS), and clinical specializations
Further academic studies: Master of Science in Nursing or Master of Science in Advanced Nursing Practice (MScSI or MScIPS), Doctoral degree (PhD)
The program is structured around alternating theoretical and practical modules and leads to the completion of 180 ECTS credits, recognized within the European Higher Education Area (EHEA).
The theoretical modules account for 126 ECTS credits, including 10 ECTS credits dedicated to the Bachelor’s thesis.
The practical training modules (placements) account for 54 ECTS credits. Practical training periods are distributed throughout the program and amount to a total of 40 weeks spent in professional practice.
The program lasts three years of full-time study (six semesters) and leads to the Bachelor of Science HES-SO in Nursing degree.
The program is divided into two-thirds at the school (theoretical modules) and one-third in practical placements (practical modules). It is delivered through lectures, practical workshops and simulation sessions, as well as seminars and placements in professional practice settings.
Each academic year consists of two semesters: an autumn semester running from weeks 38 to 7 (17 weeks of teaching) and a spring semester running from weeks 8 to 37 (18 weeks of teaching). Each semester includes a practical training period of six to nine weeks and is interrupted by two weeks at Christmas, one week at Easter, and seven weeks during the summer.
The full-time program includes one day of asynchronous online learning per week. This asynchronous learning day provides students with greater flexibility, allowing them to balance their studies with professional and personal commitments.
ECTS Credits and Learning Activities
Successful completion of the modules awards the following ECTS credits:
2 to 15 ECTS credits per theoretical module
8 to 12 ECTS credits per practical module
10 ECTS credits for the Bachelor’s thesis
One ECTS credit corresponds to approximately 25 to 30 hours of student workload, distributed across various on-campus and distance-learning activities, conducted in synchronous or asynchronous formats:
Lectures
Individual work
Group work
Supervised individual or group work
Problem-based learning
Project-based learning
Simulation-based learning
Distance learning
Clinical skills workshops
Intermodular integration
Serious games
Seminars
Coaching
Mentoring
Role-playing
Clinical case studies
Modules
Semester 1 (Academic Year 2026–2027):
Semester 2 (Academic Year 2026–2027):
Semester 3 (Academic Year 2026–2027):
Semester 4 (Academic Year 2026–2027):
Semester 5 (Academic Year 2026–2027):
M21 Prévention et gestion de la violence et de l'agressivité
M23.1 Qualité des soins auprès de populations vulnérables: soins aigus et réhabilitation
M23.2 Qualité des soins auprès de populations vulnérables: santé mentale
M28.4 Soigner la Personne en utilisant des approches de la médecine intégrative et complémentaire
M28.7 Summer School
M28.8 Nurseflix : Crise, décision et tension à chaque shift
Semester 6 (Academic Year 2026–2027):
Practiacl training is carried out according to the following arrangements.
Applicants holding one of the following qualifications have direct access to the Bachelor’s program:
Federal VET Diploma in a profession related to the intended field of study, combined with a Vocational Baccalaureate in Health and Social Care
ECG Certificate – Health specialization, combined with a Specialized Baccalaureate in Health
A recognized Higher Federal Diploma (ES) in the healthcare field
The following links provide additional information:
Dispositions d’application du règlement d’admission en Bachelor dans le domaine Santé HES-SO
Voies d’accès pour l’admission aux filières du domaine Santé HES-SO
Admission Pathways :
Admission Based on an Application File (ASD)
Applicants who do not hold a recognized upper-secondary qualification or who hold a qualification that does not meet the recognized requirements may be admitted to HES-SO Health programs through an Admission Based on an Application File (ASD) procedure.
This procedure is intended for individuals who can demonstrate, through their professional experience, the knowledge and skills required to enter HES-SO, as an alternative to holding an upper-secondary qualification.
The following conditions apply to admission through this procedure:
be 25 years of age or older;
be a Swiss citizen, hold a Swiss residence permit for gainful employment, a settlement permit or a G permit, or have recognized asylum-seeker or refugee status;
have a certified B2 level of French for applicants whose first language is not French;
have completed at least one year of full-time professional experience in the relevant field;
provide proof of an interview with the person responsible for admissions at the School of Health Sciences.
Validation of Prior Learning and Experience (VAE)
HES-SO offers a Validation of Prior Learning and Experience (VAE) procedure that recognizes competencies acquired through professional and community activities and may grant partial exemption from a training program. It can lead to the awarding of ECTS credits through equivalencies and therefore allow students to resume their studies with a reduced workload.
For a 180-ECTS Bachelor’s degree, recognition through ECTS equivalencies is limited to a maximum of 120 ECTS credits.
The admission requirements for VAE are as follows:
Hold, or have a pending application for, an admission certificate from a HES-SO institution;
Have at least five years of documented full-time professional, community, and/or volunteer experience (or the equivalent on a part-time basis), excluding apprenticeships and internships. This experience must be relevant, significant, and directly related to the knowledge, skills, and abilities targeted by the degree;
Be at least 25 years old when submitting the VAE application;
Have paid the VAE fee;
Hold a preliminary assessment form containing an initial evaluation by the person or persons responsible for the relevant program.
Applicants who meet the admission requirements may apply for VAE at the HES-SO institution of their choice.
Higher Federal Diploma (ES) in the Healthcare Field
Holders of a Higher Federal Diploma (ES) in a healthcare profession — including ambulance professionals, dental hygienists, nurses, biomedical laboratory technicians, radiology technologists, operating room technicians, orthoptists, podiatrists, and activation specialists — have direct access to the Bachelor’s program.
Holders of an ES Nursing Diploma are granted recognition of 90 ECTS credits. An additional 30 ECTS credits may be obtained through validation of prior learning and experience, provided that the applicant meets the eligibility requirements for this procedure. Some higher education institutions offer bridging programs for these applicants.
If, after consulting the FAQs and the various documents available on the website, applicants still have questions, they may contact Heds FR by email.
Study Costs
Registration fee: CHF 150.–
Tuition fee: CHF 700 per semester for Swiss students and CHF 1,050 per semester for international students. According to the AHES definition, international students are those whose tax domicile is outside Switzerland.
Study contribution fee: CHF 100.– per semester
In the event of a temporary interruption of studies for one or more semesters, a reduced tuition fee of CHF 150.– per semester applies for the duration of the leave of absence.
Heds FR invites prospective students to attend one of its information sessions. These sessions provide an overview of:
The modular program structure and the alternation between classes and practical placements
The bilingual program
Opportunities for internships abroad
Admission requirements, including supplementary modules
Upcoming Information Sessions
Monday, November 9, 2026, 5:00–6:30 p.m. (Online via Teams, no registration required)
Monday, January 18, 2027, 5:00–6:30 p.m. (Online via Teams, no registration required)
Other Opportunities to Learn More
In addition to the information sessions, every spring Heds FR welcomes people interested in studying Nursing as part of its “Étudiant-e d'un jour” events.
Heds FR also participates in the following events:
Journée Futur en tous genres — Dans la peau d’un infirmier !
Journées Perspectiva organisées par le Centre d’orientation universitaire de Fribourg
Forum des métiers Start !
2026-2027 Academic Year
January 5, 2026 to June 5, 2026
Applicants who meet the admission requirements for HES-SO Health programs may apply for the HES-SO Bachelor of Science in Nursing offered by Heds FR, either in French or bilingually (French-German), and on a full-time or part-time basis.
Online application (a link will be added during the application period)
Application Deadine for Foreign Qualifications and ECUS Examinations
January 5, 2026 to March 31, 2026
Registration is exclusively online. It is considered valid once submitted, provided that all required documents have been uploaded and the CHF 150 registration fee has been received. This fee is non-refundable. The payment slip must be completed in accordance with the template.
Access to Non-Regulated Programms Following an Unsucessful Admission Examination
Candidates who have been unsuccessful in the admission examination for a regulated HES-SO Health program may submit their application for a non-regulated program. If they wish to apply for the Nursing program, they must contact the Academic Secretariat by email and attach the letter confirming that they were unsuccessful in the admission examination.
Information and Enrollment Day
Heds FR looks forward to welcoming new students who will begin their HES-SO Bachelor of Science in Nursing studies. To complete their enrollment and provide them with the general information they need to begin their studies under the best possible conditions, Heds FR invites all new students to the mandatory introductory and enrollment session, which will take place on September 16, 2027, at Heds FR. Students concerned are encouraged to save this date in their calendars.
This section is identical to the one for the full-time programm.
This program has been specifically designed to meet the needs of people whose professional, sporting, personal, or other commitments prevent them from pursuing a full-time course of study. It is also intended for those who wish to progress at their own pace towards obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing.
By offering a part-time option, the program broadens access to professional development for working individuals while ensuring high-quality education that meets the current requirements and challenges of society.
Part-time students follow the same curriculum as full-time students, but according to an adapted schedule: three days of classes per week during theoretical modules and four days per week during practical training periods (PFP), spread over just over four years. It should be noted that 50% of the courses are delivered remotely in an asynchronous format, providing greater flexibility and making it easier to balance studies with professional and personal commitments.
The planned duration of the part-time program is just over four years and leads to a 180-ECTS Bachelor of Science HES-SO in Nursing. This degree is recognized by the Swiss Confederation and the European Union and is part of the Bologna Process.
As with the full-time program, the part-time curriculum combines theoretical teaching (two-thirds of the program, delivered by the higher education institution) and practical modules (one-third of the program, completed in professional practice settings). This blended learning program is based on a balance between distance learning (50% in synchronous and asynchronous formats) and on-campus classes, delivered through lectures, practical workshops, simulations, and seminars. Alternating between theory and practice facilitates the integration of theoretical knowledge into real-world professional situations.
Approximately half of the training days are delivered remotely, often in an asynchronous format, giving students considerable flexibility in organizing their weekly schedules. On-campus days, meanwhile, are scheduled in line with the full-time curriculum and may vary throughout the week. However, they rarely exceed three days per week.
Students earn between 38 and 43 ECTS credits per academic year. During the first three years, they complete four practical training periods, each lasting six weeks. Towards the end of the program, students complete two additional practical training periods lasting seven and nine weeks, respectively.
The academic year is structured into semesters, beginning in week 38. It includes breaks of two weeks at Christmas, one week at Easter, and several weeks during the summer.
The study plans provide details of the theoretical and practical modules for each year of the program, as well as the corresponding number of ECTS credits. The training days indicated are provided for guidance only. A detailed schedule for the upcoming academic year will be available from April onwards.
The Bachelor’s program comprises 180 ECTS credits, recognized within the European Higher Education Area (EHEA), which is part of the Bologna Process.
Successful completion of the modules awards the following ECTS credits:
2 to 15 ECTS credits per theoretical module
8 to 12 ECTS credits per practical module
10 ECTS credits for the Bachelor’s thesis
One ECTS credit corresponds to approximately 25 to 30 hours of student workload, distributed across various on-campus and distance-learning activities, delivered in synchronous or asynchronous formats:
Lectures
Individual work
Group work
Supervised individual or group work
Problem-based learning
Project-based learning
Simulation-based learning
Distance learning
Clinical skills workshops
Intermodular integration
Serious games
Seminars
Coaching
Mentoring
Role-playing
Clinical case studies
The Bachelor’s program consists of 29 theoretical modules (126 ECTS credits) and six practical modules (54 ECTS credits). The modules are distributed as follows for the part-time program:
Semester 1 (Academic Year 2026–2027):
Semester 2 (Academic Year 2026–2027):
Semester 3 :
M11 Evidence Based Nursing
M02 Sciences infirmières
M13 Soigner la Personne en oncologie
M14 Habiletés cliniques et pratiques professionnelles 3
Semester 4 :
M06 Soigner la Personne en psychiatrie
M16 Soigner la Personne en situations aiguës et urgentes
M18 Leadership en intradisciplinarité
M10.2 Construction de l’identité professionnelle 2
PFP3 Période de formation pratique 3
Semester 5 :
M21 Prévention et gestion de la violence et de l’agressivité
M12 Soigner la Personne souffrant d’addiction et de dépendances
M22 Promotion à l’autogestion
M28.2 Équité en santé & soins transculturels
M28.3 Mourir en santé
M28.4 Soigner la Personne en utilisant des approches de la médecine intégrative et complémentaire
M28.5 Prise de décision en pédiatrie
M28.6 Les Olympiades du raisonnement clinique
M28.7 Summer School
M28.8 Nurseflix : Crise, décision et tension à chaque shift
M24 Interprofessionnalité
Semester 6 :
PFP4 Période de formation pratique 4
M17 Soigner la Personne de la réadaptation au domicile
M19 Promotion de la santé
M20.1 Construction de l’identité professionnelle 5
Semester 7 :
PFP5 Période de formation pratique 5
M23.1 Qualité des soins auprès de populations vulnérables: soins aigus et réhabilitation
M23.2 Qualité des soins auprès de populations vulnérables: santé mentale
M29 Soigner la Personne à l’ère du numérique
Semester 8 :
M27.1 Revue de littérature, Travail de Bachelor
M27.2 Projet HumanTech, Travail de Bachelor
M25 Engagement professionnel
M26 Raisonnement clinique : agir dans l’incertitude
M08 Soigner la Personne en pédiatrie
M20.2 Construction de l’identité professionnelle 6
Semester 9 :
PFP6 Période de formation pratique 6
Practical training is carried out according to the following arrangements.
This section is identical to the one for the full-time programm.
This section is identical to the one for the full-time programm.
This section is identical to the one for the full-time programm.
This section is identical to the one for the full-time programm.
Why offer a part-time Bachelor of Science in Nursing?
This program responds to:
the shortage of qualified nursing staff;
the need to diversify educational pathways;
the need to facilitate access to higher education for people facing personal, professional, or financial constraints.
It makes the program accessible to a wider range of profiles and better reflects the realities of today’s diverse life paths.
Is the degree the same as the full-time degree?
Yes. The degree is exactly the same. The program guarantees:
the same competencies (PEC);
the same content;
the same assessment requirements.
The program involves an adaptation of the pace of study, rather than a reduction in the scope or requirements of the training.
How long does the program take?
The program lasts approximately four years and three months, with an annual workload of 38 to 45 ECTS credits. This structure allows learning to be spread over a longer period.
How is the program organized in practice?
The program is based on approximately three days of theoretical training per week, including:
50% distance learning (asynchronous), meaning that activities can be completed at a later time according to the student’s personal schedule;
50% on-campus learning, integrated with the full-time students.
Practical training periods are completed at an 80% workload, with their duration extended accordingly.
What is the main difference compared with the full-time program?
The main difference lies in the pace and timeframe of the program:
theoretical training is planned according to a workload corresponding to a 60% study load;
practical training periods are completed at an 80% workload.
The total number of training hours remains identical to that of the full-time program. Practical placements are therefore extended by approximately one to two weeks to ensure equivalence.
Can students follow the part-time program in the bilingual track?
Yes. The part-time program is also available in the bilingual track. In this case, half of the theoretical courses and practical training periods (placements) are completed in French and the other half in German. Students may choose the language in which they take their examinations.
Do students complete the same practical placements as full-time students?
The number, structure, and requirements of the practical training periods (PFP) are identical:
the same objectives;
the same competencies to be developed;
approximately 40 weeks in total at 100%.
Each academic year includes at least one practical training period, following an integrated alternation between theory and practice. Since placements are completed at an 80% workload, their duration is extended, generally by one to two weeks depending on the original length of the placement, in order to ensure an equivalent total workload to the full-time program.
Can the program be combined with employment or family life?
The program is designed to facilitate balancing studies with other commitments, such as employment, family responsibilities, or career change. Careful organization is nevertheless required, particularly during practical training periods.
What support is provided to students?
Several support measures structure the support provided to Bachelor of Science in Nursing students at Heds FR:
«Les clés de la réussite» Immersion Module
Mentoring
Academic guidance from study advisors
Reflective portfolio
These measures support students’ autonomy, engagement, and progress throughout the program.
Why is there an immersion module before the program begins?
This module enables students to:
become familiar with academic expectations;
learn how to use educational and digital tools;
ensure a smooth transition into the program.
Originally developed for the part-time program, it is now open to all students.
How are assessments conducted?
Assessment procedures are exactly the same as in the full-time program:
the same criteria;
the same requirements;
the same regulations (HES-SO and Heds FR).
Progression requirements and procedures in the event of failure remain unchanged.
Is the program easier?
The program has the same level of academic requirements as the full-time program, with:
training modules spread over a longer period;
a high degree of autonomy;
the same academic expectations as the full-time program.
What are the added benefits of the part-time format?
The program offers:
greater flexibility in the organization of studies;
greater access to education for people who work or have personal or other commitments;
the integration of a more diverse range of student profiles.
Is it possible to undertake national or international mobility, or a placement abroad?
National and international mobility opportunities are available as part of the program, subject to organizational and academic requirements.
Students may consider:
exchanges with other higher education institutions;
practical training periods abroad.
For part-time students, advance planning is particularly important to ensure compatibility with the study schedule and other commitments.
What is the program’s educational approach?
The program is based on:
structured blended learning (on-campus and distance learning);
consistently high academic standards;
a strong connection to professional practice;
integration with the full-time program.
Who is this program specifically intended for?
The program is particularly suited to:
students working alongside their studies;
people with family responsibilities;
people undergoing a career change;
informal caregivers;
students with other commitments, such as sports or community activities.
Is there a fixed allowance for practical training periods?
Yes. During semesters that include a practical training period, students receive a fixed allowance of CHF 400 per month.
What does a typical academic year schedule look like?
The schedule is available alongside this section.
This section is identical to the one for the full-time programm.
This section is identical to the one for the full-time programm.
Theoretical Teaching
The bilingual program is delivered 50% in German and 50% in French. Each module includes learning sequences in both languages, designed to deepen and integrate professional and language skills. Each topic or representative situation is therefore explored comprehensively in one language, enabling students from the outset to associate topics with specific situations and establish connections between them.
The content taught in French and German is identical (a single curriculum delivered in two languages: French and German), allowing students to choose the language in which they wish to take their module examinations. When taking an examination in their L2, students are granted an additional 30% of time for written examinations and for preparation time in oral examinations. The use of a paper dictionary is permitted.
Language Proficiency
German: The minimum language proficiency required to enroll in the bilingual program is B2, according to the European Language Portfolio and the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
French: The minimum language proficiency required to enroll in the bilingual program is B2, according to the European Language Portfolio (ELP).
This section is identical to the one for the full-time programm.
Practical training is carried out according to the following arrangements.
As a general rule, practical training placements are distributed 50% in German and 50% in French, depending on placement availability. A practical training period abroad is an exception to this rule.
This section is identical to the one for the full-time programm.
This section is identical to the one for the full-time programm.
This section is identical to the one for the full-time programm.
This section is identical to the one for the full-time programm.
Sandra Pillonel, Academic Advisor
The bilingual program at Heds FR enables students to become nurses while developing their professional skills in both French and German. In a supportive environment and as part of a dedicated cohort, students progressively immerse themselves in both languages through classes, simulation-based learning, and a variety of practical training placements. This unique experience prepares them to work across Switzerland’s different linguistic regions and broadens their professional opportunities throughout the country.
Practical training encompasses various forms of learning designed to develop the professional competencies expected as part of the Bachelor’s degree. These include workshops, practical laboratories, seminars, observation placements, and practical training periods included in the curriculum.
Practical training periods in professional practice settings are an important part of the program. They provide valuable learning opportunities in clinical practice, interpersonal, technical and practical skills, teaching and education, work analysis and management, as well as research and development.
Each year of the Bachelor’s program includes two practical training periods, taking place during the autumn and spring semesters, respectively. The practical training periods in the first and second years each last six weeks. The third year includes two practical training periods lasting seven and nine weeks, respectively.
The practical training pathway is designed to enable students to experience the standards, rules, values, and codes of the different settings in which nursing professionals work.
Contexts
During their studies, students must complete practical training in at least the following settings:
One practical training period in an inpatient setting
One practical training period in an outpatient setting
One practical training period in a community or home-care setting
One practical training period in a mental health setting
Students are required to complete at least one practical training period outside the canton of Fribourg. Heds FR contributes to the associated travel and accommodation costs in accordance with established guidelines. Practical training abroad is also possible and takes place in accordance with the principles governing mobility.
More detailed information on the organization, structure, and assessment of practical training can be found in the FAQ section.
The general framework for HES-SO practical training is as follows.
A dedicated page is available for HES-SO practice educators.
For several years, Switzerland has been facing a shortage of nursing staff. This situation represents a major challenge for the healthcare sector. A recent study on staffing needs in care and support services shows that the canton of Fribourg is no exception.
Many people trained in healthcare have put their professional careers on hold, either to focus on family responsibilities or to pursue other professional activities that better fit their availability.
Nursing is evolving rapidly, and returning to work can sometimes be challenging after a period away from professional practice. For this reason, Heds FR offers a professional reintegration program in long-term care. This 80%-time program combines theoretical courses with practical experience. Practical training is carried out in partnership with healthcare and care institutions in the canton of Fribourg.
Nurses wishing to return to professional practice after having been away from the workforce for some time.
Updating knowledge and developing competencies in line with current professional challenges
Analysis of professional situations and development of reflective practice
Development of an e-portfolio for learning
Development of clinical judgment and nursing clinical assessment in an interprofessional context
Theoretical Training
One day for orientation and introduction
Ten days of training at the school
Six days of courses selected from the available course offerings
Two days during the two practical placements (ADP, courses, tutoring)
One day for assessment, completion, and review
Classes run from 8:00 a.m. to 4:10 p.m.
Practical Placements
Two four-week practical placements at 80% are completed in a nursing home or residential care facility, home care, or a hospital setting. Placements are arranged either by the participant or by Heds FR.
Flexible program start date and course schedule developed in consultation with the program coordinator.
Hold a Swiss tertiary-level qualification in nursing or a foreign qualification recognized as equivalent by the Swiss Confederation
Have not been working in the nursing field for at least two years
Be domiciled in the canton of Fribourg
Attend an interview with the program coordinator to discuss the professional project (e.g. determine the course dates and practical placement schedule)
Registration fee: CHF 500
The program costs are funded by the Directorate of Health and Social Affairs of the Canton of Fribourg (DSAS) and the Swiss Confederation.
Corinne Bulliard, Program Coordinator
A certificate of completion is issued at the end of the program.
What is your professional background?
I graduated in 1992 and then worked at Riaz Hospital and in the emergency department. At the time, we would go out in the ambulance, so I really enjoyed the technical aspects of nursing as well as the interaction with patients. After having my first children, I decided to reduce my working hours, and after my third child, I stopped working altogether. I was very happy to look after my children for 13 years.
What made you decide to undertake this program?
When I talked to my nursing friends about their professional lives, they told me that the job had changed completely, particularly because of all the developments in information technology. The idea of returning to work didn't appeal to me at all because I really don't like IT. But then I saw an article in La Liberté about this program, and it caught my attention. I saw it as an incredible opportunity to give it another try because, deep down, I love this profession.
How did your practical placement go?
When I enrolled, I mentioned that I was particularly interested in home care or palliative care. So I was very happy to be able to do my placement in home care in Courtaman, even though it was quite far from where I live. The work was demanding, especially because everything has to be documented on tablets and the time allocated to each task is strictly scheduled, but I eventually got used to the way things worked. I found it quite challenging when I had to visit patients on my own because I didn't know the area and got lost several times.
And what about the classes at Heds FR?
When we arrived, we all felt almost as though we were being looked after. There was a great deal of kindness and no judgment, and the people responsible for the program gently helped us refresh and rebuild our knowledge. The transition from the classroom to real-world practice was all the more challenging because of this. But I appreciated starting out in such a supportive and caring environment, which accompanied us throughout the entire program.
What has changed in your relationship with patients?
Back then, I had time to have a coffee with patients and chat with them. Today, each care activity is allocated a specific amount of time. If I need five more minutes than planned to help a patient with their shower, I have to justify it. At first, this stressed me out and I was less attentive to patients. But with experience, I developed strategies that now allow me to talk to patients while providing care.
What did the program bring you?
I realized that for 13 years, I had been in my comfort zone, but I had also lost confidence in myself. Thanks to the program, I found myself in situations where I had to rely on myself to find solutions, and ultimately, I came out of it stronger. I also feel more valued within my family; I have a different place now.
What are your plans for the future?
I will continue working on an hourly basis in home care, where I did my practical placement. The program has given me a new lease of life, so I want to make the most of it. I am 50, and if I could continue working part-time on an hourly basis for the next ten years, that would suit me very well.
Why did you decide to take part in this program?
After completing my training in 1993, I worked at HFR for around ten years, followed by a position in a nursing home. I then worked part-time in a medical practice and at the Swiss Association of the Paralyzed in Fribourg. In short, I had been away from the nursing profession for more than 12 years. I wanted to refresh my knowledge and catch up with the latest developments.
How did you experience the program?
It wasn't always easy, but it was very constructive and enriching. After the initial stress of adjusting to the pace and workload, as well as getting used to the practical placement environment in home care, my confidence gradually returned. I realized that the practical skills come back quickly, and the confidence-building phase during the periods at Heds FR was very beneficial. I became aware of how much the profession has evolved, but also that these major changes were not insurmountable.
What was the biggest change for you?
What surprised me most was the role that IT now plays and the fact that every care activity has to be validated, documented, timed (in home care), and justified. Nurses spend a considerable amount of time setting up a file for a new patient, and strong IT skills are essential. I feel that the profession has become more knowledge-intensive and that nurses are now expected to have a broader range of skills.
What is your overall assessment of the program?
Heds FR developed a program that was tailored to my needs and fully met my expectations, with a high level of expertise and attentive support. The program was perfectly organized, and I was completely satisfied with the courses and the expertise of the teaching staff. I can only express my sincere thanks to everyone involved in developing this program and encourage all nurses who have left the profession and feel the need to return to it not to hesitate to enroll in this program.
What are your plans for the future?
I realized that home care is an area I enjoy and that suits me well. I still need some time to think before deciding whether to apply for a position. The considerable administrative workload involved in the profession today is clearly a drawback for me, and it is a factor that makes me hesitate.
