I am an Enrolled Nurse (EN) and feel at times I am pressured to administer S8 medications at my facility, am I allowed to do this?

The situation regarding ENs and the administration of Schedule 8 (S8) medications is quite complex. While it is not explicitly stated that ENs are prohibited from administering S8 medications, their qualifications lack the necessary endorsement under the National Law to do so.

In essence, Registered Nurses (RNs) are authorised to administer S8 medications, whereas ENs are restricted to administering medications other than those classified as S8 drugs of addiction, as their training does not encompass the educational requirements for this endorsement.

It is crucial for ENs to be aware of and adhere to their local policies and procedures concerning S8 medication administration. These policies can vary between workplaces and may provide specific guidelines on what ENs are permitted to do regarding medication management. By checking these protocols, ENs can ensure compliance with their workplace processes and maintain the safety and well-being of their patients. Additionally, understanding these regulations helps ENs clarify their scope of practice, which is vital for their professional development and accountability in the healthcare setting.