Medicines administration by Division 2 Registered Nurses
Endorsed Division 2 Registered Nurses in Victoria are authorised to administer medicines in accordance with guidelines and codes as set by the Nurses Board of Victoria (NBV).
In order to meet the requirements for endorsement Division 2 nurses must complete the education program entitled 'Course in Medication Administration for Division 2 Registered Nurses in Victoria'. This course has been accredited by both the NBV and the Victorian Qualifications Authority (VQA), and is conducted by Registered Training Organisations and TAFE’s approved by the NBV. A list of accredited training providers is available on the NBV website.
The medicines administration course was first introduced in 2004. Since then more than 1900 Division 2 nurses have been endorsed. The course was further updated in 2006 to include the administration of medicines by subcutaneous and intramuscular routes. The new program is 200 hours of which 40% is clinical practice.
Division 2 nurses who have completed the original program (190 hours) are required to complete a 20 hour 'Transitional Module in Medication Administration for Endorsed Division 2 Nurses in Victoria' before administering medicines by subcutaneous and intramuscular route.
Following successful completion of the medicines administration program, the division 2 nurse may seek endorsement by the NBV. See the NBV website for details on how to apply for endorsement. NBV has also prepared guidelines (revised in 2006) for delegation and supervision of medicines administration by Division 2 nurses and a Code for Guidance for the 'Management of the Administration of Medications for High Care Residents in an Aged Care Service' to guide safe practice. These are also available from the NBV website.
Division 2 nurses may be eligible for funding support through the Nurse Policy Branch Division 2 Paid Study Leave Program.
It is anticipated that by gaining endorsement, the significant contribution made by division 2 registered nurses will be enhanced and there will be improved career pathways that increase role satisfaction and contribute to recruitment and retention of nurses in Victoria.
All enquiries can be directed to the Nurse Policy Branch, Department of Human Services