Do Nurses Need a Degree?
Since 2013, nurses need a degree in order to qualify and be registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC)- the Nursing governing body. This applies to all the 4 fields of Nursing (adult, children, mental health, or learning disability).
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Why do Nurses need a degree?
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According to the Government Health Minister, the aim of training all nurses to degree level is to increase skills and train a medical workforce capable of operating in a more analytical and independent manner, which is required in the healthcare service in the 21st century.
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Many countries in Europe and around the world already train their Nurses to degree level, so will bring the UK in line.
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In order to be a Nurse, the person will also need to demonstrate:
• High level of literacy and numeracy.
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Nursing also requires a high level of technical competence and clinical decision-making skills.
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• Complete a health questionnaire and identify any special needs related to a disability.
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• Declare any past criminal convictions.
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• Allow the university to check whether you have a police record. You will not automatically be barred if you have a criminal conviction or caution. The university will take into account the circumstances and will treat any information in the strictest of confidence.
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• If you’re already working as a health care assistant, speak to your employer as they may support you to meet the entrance requirements through an apprentice scheme.