Nursing Assistant Practitioner Scope of Practice

This policy is for use across NHS Lothian. The aim of this policy is to provide a consistent set of requirements that support Assistant Practitioners which in turn will provide a platform for the organisation to deliver a sustainable and progressive approach to Assistant Practitioner roles. This policy seeks to provide clarity on the scope of role, workforce planning, governance arrangements, education, and training to support services to plan and individuals aspire to these roles. The implementation of the policy will help to:

– Ensure that there is a robust governance framework including clarity on the scope of role for Assistant Practitioners.
– Ensure that roles and responsibilities are clearly described.
– Support a commitment to developing the role, supporting recruitment and improve workforce planning in relation to Assistant Practitioners.
– Ensure that Assistant Practitioners have the necessary educational requirements and underpinning theory and competence to fulfil their role.
– Ensure that the processes for developing and approving the clinical skills, including medicine administration are clearly set out.
– Evidence the contribution that Assistant Practitioner roles make to safe, effective, and person-centred care.