How to become a Nurse Practitioner (NP)
ScholarshipsIn NSW NPs undergo a thorough authorisation process through the NMB. This enables the successful applicant to use the protected title of 'Nurse Practitioner' or 'Midwife Practitioner' and to have the authority to prescribe, order pathology tests, order medical imaging investigations and make limited referrals only, whilst operating within approved guidelines. There are two pathways for RNs/RMs to become authorised.
1. RNs who have completed a NMB approved Master's program leading to authorisation to practice as a NP
- identify the approved broad area and specialty area of practice in which they would like to be assessed
- show evidence of current registration as a nurse or midwife
- show evidence of 5,000 hours of advanced nursing or midwifery practice during the last six years appropriate to the specialty area
- show evidence of successful completion of a Nurse Practitioner Master's degree accredited by the NMB leading to authorisation as a Nurse Practitioner (includes ANMC National Competency Standards)
- complete the approved application form and application fee as determined by the NMB.
2. RNs or RMs working at advanced practice levels that have NOT completed a specific NMB approved NP Master's degree
- show evidence of current registration as a nurse or midwife in NSW and 5,000 hours of advanced practice in the relevant specialty area within the last six years
- prepare and submit a 'package of evidence' that includes a detailed curriculum vitaé and case study that demonstrates the applicant has the knowledge and skills to practice nursing or midwifery at an advanced level within the nominated specialty area
- complete the approved application form and an application fee, as determined by the NMB
- attend a peer review interview to demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills in an identified specialty area of practice
- meet ANMC National Competency Standards determined through panel interviews.
The application process
Scholarships
On 28 October 2008 the Hon. Nicola Roxon, Federal Minister for Health and Ageing announced that the Australian Government is investing $2.1 million to help build the nation's nurse practitioner workforce.
Nurse practitioner scholarships of up to $15,000 per annum for two years, targeted specifically at nurses in rural and remote areas, will be provided for up to 20 nurses to upgrade their skills to practice as nurse practitioners. While preference will be given to nurses with rural or remote residency, nurses in metropolitan and regional areas are encouraged to apply.
These scholarships are administered by the Royal College of Nursing Australia. Applications close on Friday 5 December 2008.
>> Nurse Practitioner Scholarship Scheme application and guidelines. Freecall 1800 117 262.
This web page is managed and authorised by Nursing & Midwifery Office of the NSW Department of Health. Last updated: 31 March, 2009