What is Revalidation?
Revalidation is a process that all nurses and midwives in the UK must undertake every three years to maintain their registration with the
Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). This process aims to ensure that nurses and midwives remain fit to practise and continue to develop professionally. Revalidation helps to improve clinical practice and ensures that healthcare professionals provide high-quality care.
Why is Revalidation Important?
Revalidation is crucial for maintaining public trust and confidence in the nursing profession. It encourages continuous professional development, reflective practice, and adherence to the
NMC Code. By undergoing revalidation, nurses demonstrate their commitment to high standards of care and ongoing learning.
- 450 Practice Hours: Nurses must have completed at least 450 hours of practice over the three-year period.
- 35 Hours of Continuing Professional Development (CPD): This includes 20 hours of participatory learning.
- Five Pieces of Practice-Related Feedback: Feedback can come from patients, colleagues, or from reviewing events and incidents.
- Five Reflections on the NMC Code: Written reflections on how they have applied the NMC Code in their practice.
- Reflective Discussion: A discussion with another NMC-registered nurse or midwife about their reflections.
- Health and Character Declaration: Confirmation that they are fit to practise.
- Professional Indemnity Arrangement: Evidence of insurance or indemnity arrangements.
1. Maintain a Portfolio: Keep a record of practice hours, CPD activities, feedback, and reflections.
2. Engage in CPD Activities: Attend workshops, seminars, and online courses to meet the CPD requirement.
3. Gather Feedback: Actively seek feedback from patients and colleagues.
4. Reflect Regularly: Write reflections on experiences and how they align with the NMC Code.
5. Schedule Reflective Discussions: Plan discussions with colleagues well in advance of the revalidation date.
What is the Role of the Reflective Discussion Partner?
The reflective discussion partner must be an NMC-registered nurse or midwife. Their role is to facilitate a discussion about the nurse's reflections, ensuring that the nurse has considered their practice in relation to the NMC Code. This discussion should be documented and signed by both parties.
What Happens if a Nurse Fails to Revalidate?
If a nurse fails to revalidate, they will be removed from the NMC register and will not be able to practise as a nurse or midwife in the UK. To regain registration, they must meet all revalidation requirements and apply for readmission to the register.
How Does Revalidation Benefit Patients?
Revalidation benefits patients by ensuring that nurses are up-to-date with the latest practices and standards. It promotes a culture of safety, quality, and accountability in healthcare. Patients can be confident that they are receiving care from professionals who are committed to lifelong learning and professional development.
Conclusion
Revalidation is a vital process in the nursing profession, ensuring that nurses maintain their competence and provide high-quality care. By meeting the revalidation requirements, nurses demonstrate their commitment to professional standards and continuous improvement. This process not only benefits the nurses themselves but also enhances patient safety and public trust in the healthcare system.