Medicines administration by Enrolled Nurses (Division 2) Registered Nurses

Since 2004, Enrolled nurses (Division 2) in Victoria have been able to do additional training to administer medicines (previously called medicines endorsement) and from 2006, this has been part of all Enrolled nurses (Division 2) courses.

From 1 July 2010, there are changes to the way we recognize the Enrolled nurses (Division 2) who can administer medicines.

The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) includes a notation on the registration of an Enrolled nurse (Division 2) if they have not completed approved qualifications in medicines administration. The notation says:

‘Does not hold Board-approved qualifications in administration of medicines’.

Understanding the scope of practice of individual enrolled nurse (Division 2) including medicine administration is now a matter for nurses and their employers. All decisions about nursing and midwifery scope of practice issues are guided by the NMBA’s Decision Making Framework.

There are still many enrolled nurses who have not completed approved qualifications in medicines administration.

To find out more:

Your obligations under legislation when administering medicines go to: http://www.health.vic.gov.au/dpu/reqhealth.htm

The NMBA has a fact sheet about the requirements to have a medicines notation removed as well as a list of approved training for this purpose.

NMBA’s Decision Making Framework, go to: http://www.nursingmidwiferyboard.gov.au/Codes-and-Guidelines.aspx)

The Enrolled Nurse (Division 2) Paid Study Leave Program that provides funding for additional training (including medicines units).

Contact

Nurse Policy - Policy Analyst (Education)
Ph: (03) 9096 7947
Email: catherine.klomp@health.vic.gov.au