Two consultation documents from Modernising Nursing Careers

Two significant consultations in relation to Modernising Nursing Careers were launched in November 2007: one from the Nursing and Midwifery Council regarding the future content and level of pre registration nurse education and the other from the English Department of Health regarding post registration career pathways. This Policy Unit briefing summarises the two consultation documents. It provides background and contextual information, and supports members in formulating their responses during the consultation process.

The two consultations together cover a wide terrain of topics for discussion and debate. The key questions that appear to underpin the issues and on which it might be helpful to focus:

• How should pre-registration nurse education be organised in terms of content? In particular should we continue specialisation at the pre-registration level? Or should the four pre-registration branches be changed, modified or replaced? Are there alternatives you would suggest?
• Are the post registration career pathways outlined in the consultation document the right ones? Can you suggest alternative or additional pathways?

If you have any comments or wish to contribute further, please email policy.international@rcn.org.uk