RCN Accreditation
The RCN Accreditation Unit accredits nurses in the insertion and removal of sub-dermal contraceptive implants (SDI) and intrauterine techniques (IUT). If you work at a higher or specialist level within the area of contraception/sexual health and hold a recognised qualification in the specialty our new guidance publications provide information on how to acquire the clinical skills and competence you need to become accredited. They also set out the training requirements needed to undertake this advanced role. The RCN recommends that nurses follow this guidance to ensure best practice and to protect the safety of women.
Before undertaking any training we advise that nurses clearly identify a clinical need for learning these skills. We also recommend that they are confident that they would have enough women requesting this method of contraception for them to maintain competence in the procedures. In most cases this will mean you will be a nurse or midwife working at a higher or specialist level within the area of contraception/sexual health.
Our guidance packs, which were updated in November 2008, can be found on our website www.rcn.org.uk/accreditation - please click on 'Implant and IUD Accreditation'. You will also find up-to-date information and a list of frequently asked questions to help guide nurses through the process. For more information please call the Accreditation Unit on
020 7647 3717/3647.