I have been working in a nursing role in telehealth for five years with no direct patient contact. I’ve decided I want to return to a clinical setting again, but I’m not confident that my clinical skills are current. How do I prepare to ensure I provide safe and effective care in a direct clinical role?
Provided you hold general registration, you can change your context of practice; however, planning and educational preparation is necessary.
Every clinician is responsible for being aware of and working within their individual scope of practice. You can map out your skills and knowledge in relation to the clinical area in which you are seeking to work. The decision-making framework will assist in mapping to identify any knowledge gaps which will need to be addressed through education.
Next, prepare an education plan to meet the requirements of the clinical position you are seeking. Undertake appropriate education and record it as per the continuing professional development (CPD) registration standard in your CPD portfolio.
When interviewing for positions, ask what education and support is available for nurses transitioning back into clinical roles and determine if there will be a supernumerary period. When you transition into any new context of practice, you will need to regularly assess your knowledge and skills and seek support to incorporate anything new into your individual scope.
Further information can be found in the registration standard: Recency of practice and the NMBA decision making framework at www.nursingmidwiferyboard.gov.au