Enrolled Nurse (EN): Perioperative Practice program
The current nursing workforce in the perioperative environment in NSW is predominantly Registered Nurses (RNs). In some settings, ENs have undertaken roles in anaesthetics but in the NSW public sector have not necessarily undertaken other roles in the perioperative nursing team.
The speciality area of perioperative nursing encompasses a range of specialised roles.
Traditionally the instrument/scrub/circulating/scout nurse role has been undertaken by RNs. ENs have worked mainly in supporting roles.
As part of the Nursing and Midwifery Office's plan to facilitate EENs functioning to their full potential within their scope of practice, funding was provided for the development of the Endorsed Enrolled Nurse Perioperative Practice Program (Instrument Nurse) at The College of Nursing. This has allowed a greater number of EENs to access this education and move into the role.
For further information visit The College of Nursing.
Other post enrolment perioperative courses are available at TAFE NSW