Book excerpt: A Handbook for Trainee Nursing Associates provides a concise introduction to the essential background knowledge that aspiring nursing associates need as a foundation for their training. Each chapter is linked to the outcomes of the NMC Standards of proficiency for nursing associates. This book will underpin your studies and enable you to support registered nurses in caring for people in a variety of health and care settings. It will also give a solid grounding for nursing associates who want to follow the progression route into graduate nursing. Packed with activities to help you apply theory to contemporary practice, A Handbook for Trainee Nursing Associates covers the core of your studies: Study skills Professional and communication skills Values and ethics Society and health Psychology and health Public health and health promotion Research and evidence-based practice Mental health Learning disabilities A Handbook for Trainee Nursing Associates gives you an accessible introduction to the knowledge and understanding you will need at the start of your training and into your healthcare career.