Development of nursing associate role too rushed, say nurse leaders

Development of nursing associate role too rushed, say nurse leaders Nurse leaders fear that the development of the new nursing associate role is being rushed through far too quickly.

Health Education England has only just announced the curriculumfor the role, but test sites are set to get under way in January next year.

“It is entirely right that support staff be offered a route into becoming a registered nurse, and as a bridging role, this position could be positive for the whole clinical team,” said Janet Davies, chief executive and general secretary of the Royal College of Nursing (RCN).

The curriculum had addressed a key concern of the College by making it clear that role development and allocation of work must always be under the appropriate level of provision.

“However, the RCN remains concerned that with the NHS under so much financial pressure, registered, graduate nurses may be substituted with support staff who do not have the same level of education and experience,” said Janet Davies. OnMedica