The levels of nursing: Setting definitions and standards for nursing practice beyond registration (10 May 2024)

Summary

The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) is developing a professional framework for nursing which will encompass the whole nursing workforce, from the nursing support worker through to the consultant nurse. Beyond the point of registration, the work of the registered nurse increases in its complexity, and as part of this framework, the RCN has developed definitions of the levels of nursing practice beyond registration.

This webpage provides definitions and standards for enhanced, advanced and consultant levels of nursing. These definitions will help those who aspire to practice at these levels, as well as giving greater clarity to employers and higher education institutions. They can be applied across all fields of nursing and in all settings.