As a nursing associate, you play a crucial role in delivering compassionate, quality care to patients every day. But did you know that revalidation is one of the key ways to keep that care top-notch? Revalidating as a nursing associate isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s about honing your skills, enhancing patient trust, and staying at the forefront of best practices in healthcare. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about revalidation, from why it matters to how to succeed with confidence.
What is Revalidation, and Why Does it Matter?
Revalidation is a process led by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) that ensures nursing associates continue to meet professional standards. By going through revalidation every three years, you’re not only showing your commitment to safe, effective care but also investing in your professional growth. It’s a powerful way to boost confidence in your role, support patient safety, and adapt to ever-evolving practices.
Are You Ready to Revalidate? Know the Eligibility Requirements
If you’re a registered nursing associate, revalidation will come up every three years. Let’s break down what you’ll need:
Practice Hours
You need to complete at least 450 practice hours over three years. It's essential to keep a detailed log of these hours. If you haven't met the required hours, you must successfully complete an approved return to practice program or a Test of Competence before submitting your application for renewal of registration.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
You are required to complete a minimum of 35 hours of Continuing Professional Development (CPD), with at least 20 hours involving participatory learning. CPD activities may include attending workshops, conferences, or online courses relevant to your practice. It's essential to keep accurate records of your CPD, which must include the following:
- the CPD method
- a description of the topic and how it relates to your practice
- the dates on which the activity was undertaken
- the number of hours (including the number of participatory hours)
- the identification of the part of the Code most relevant to the activity
- evidence that you undertook the CPD activity.
Practice-related feedback
Gathering feedback from patients, colleagues, and other professionals is essential for identifying areas where you can enhance your practice. Reflecting on this feedback fosters professional growth and development. You need to have collected five pieces of practice-related feedback within the three years since your last registration renewal or since you joined the register.
Written Reflective Account
You need to write five reflections on your practice, focussing on the insights gained from your CPD activities or feedback received. These reflections should illustrate how you've applied your learning to enhance patient care and how they align with the NMC code.
Reflective Discussion
You must engage in at least one reflective discussion with another NMC-registrant. During this discussion, cover your five written reflections on CPD, practice-related feedback, or significant experiences in your practice and their relation to the Code. Ensure that the NMC registrant you discuss with signs the approved form, which should include their name, NMC PIN, email, professional address, postcode, and the date of the discussion. This discussion validates your reflections and promotes peer support.
Health and Character Declaration
As part of the revalidation process, you must confirm that you are in good health and of good character, ensuring you are fit to practice. You need to declare if you have been charged or convicted of any criminal offence (including a conditional discharge) or if you have received a formal caution.
You must also disclose if you have been subject to any adverse findings that your fitness to practice is impaired by a professional or regulatory body (including those responsible for regulating or licensing a health and social care profession).
Professional Indemnity Arrangement
You are legally required to have a professional indemnity arrangement in place to practice. You must confirm that you have, or will have, suitable cover under an indemnity arrangement, ensuring you are protected while practicing.
Confirmation
You will need to confirm that you have shown an appropriate confirmer that you have met the revalidation requirements. This involves providing the name, NMC PIN (or other relevant professional identification number), email address, professional address, and postcode of the confirmer. The confirmer’s role is crucial as they review the evidence you have gathered and verify that you have fulfilled the revalidation criteria.
Step-by-Step: How to Complete Your Revalidation
Let’s simplify the revalidation process into three key steps:
- Preparation: Gather documents showing your practice hours, CPD activities, and any feedback. Consider keeping a dedicated revalidation folder to stay organised.
- Apply Online: When you’re ready, log onto NMC Online to check your revalidation date. A reminder will be sent to you 60 days before your application is due. Once notified, you can submit your application. There is no cost for revalidating with the NMC; the annual fee covers your ongoing registration and all other services.
- Confirmation: Once your application is received and your payment is confirmed, you will get an email that your registration has been renewed. This can take up to two days.
Common Revalidation Challenges and Solutions
Revalidation may feel overwhelming at first, but you’re not alone! Here are some common challenges nursing associates face, along with ways to overcome them:
- Finding Time: Balancing work, life, and revalidation can be tough. Break down tasks into small steps and set aside an hour a week for revalidation tasks.
- Accessing CPD: If your workplace doesn’t provide CPD, explore free or low-cost online options. Many healthcare providers and professional bodies offer excellent resources.
- Collecting Feedback: Gathering feedback can feel intimidating. Approach trusted colleagues, patients (where appropriate), or supervisors and explain how their input helps you grow as a professional.
Why Revalidation Benefits You as a Nursing Associate
Revalidation isn’t just another requirement—it’s a golden opportunity to grow in your role. Here’s how it benefits you:
- Increases Confidence: Reflecting on your experiences and receiving feedback helps you recognize your strengths and areas for growth, boosting your self-assurance.
- Fosters Professional Development: CPD activities expand your knowledge and skills, making you even more effective in your role.
- Improves Patient Outcomes: When you’re up-to-date on best practices, you’re better equipped to provide top-quality care, leading to more positive patient experiences.
Conclusion: Take Pride in Your Growth
Revalidating as a nursing associate is a rewarding process that underscores your commitment to delivering excellent care. By dedicating time to learning, reflection, and skill development, you’re not just meeting a requirement—you’re investing in a brighter future for yourself and your patients. Start planning your revalidation journey today, and remember, every step you take strengthens both your practice and the healthcare community as a whole.
Ready to explore the rewarding opportunities ahead? Take the first step today by registering with Verovian Nursing Agency. Let us help you advance your healthcare career!
