Revalidation for Nurses and Midwives
The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) has committed to introduce a proportionate and effective model of revalidation by the end of 2015. This is not going to be a replication of medical revalidation, however there are lessons we can learn around communication, engagement and implementation to ensure this can work in the timescale anticipated.
The NMC agreed to go forward with the revalidation model which will require a third party (such as an employer or manager) to confirm that the nurse or midwife who is revalidating is complying with the revised code. This will take account of feedback from patients, service users, carers and colleagues. Revalidation will take place at the point of renewal of registration.
This model of revalidation requires no changes to NMC legislation, however following the introduction and evaluation of the model the NMC may request changes to their legislation if there is sufficient evidence that it would further increase public protection.
Nurses and midwives will still be required, in line with current legislation, to renew their registration every three years. The current requirement for continued professional development (CPD) will be reviewed and the definition of suitable CPD will be clarified.
The Code has been updated to reflect changes in contemporary professional nursing and midwifery practice and to reflect the public expectations of care. All nurses and midwives were sent a copy of the Code before it became effective on 31 March 2015. Nurses and midwives will start receiving copies from March onwards
