Immunisation - Nurses
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Nurses in General Practice
- A guide for the general practice team: ACN Nursing in general practice
- Advanced Nursing Practice - Guidelines for the Australian Context
Scope of practice
- NCIRS resource: Administration of vaccines – Scope of practice for healthcare professionals
- NCIRS resource: Authorised nurse immuniser courses accepted in States and Territories (26 Oct)
- APNA podcast: The role and responsibilities of an EN
Workforce Survey
The result of the 2020 APNA Workforce Survey of primary health care nurses show that Australia’s primary health care nurses are ready, willing and able to do more to keep the nation healthy.
Complete the APNA 2021 Workforce Survey. The survey will take no more than 28 minutes.
CESPHN Scholarship for Authorised Nurse Immuniser course
30 August 2021 - Update
Thank you to those that have applied so far. We have had an overwhelming response and have had to close applications for the time being. We are still taking details of RNs interested in applying, however you will be placed on a waitlist at this time.
Central and Eastern Sydney PHN is offering registered nurses working in general practice and residential aged care facilities (RACF) within the CESPHN region the opportunity to apply for scholarship to complete studies to become a qualified authorised nurse immuniser in NSW and administer vaccinations independent of a medical officer.
Eligibility criteria: registered nurses working in general practice or RACF within the CESPHN region, who have not previously attained qualification as an authorised nurse immuniser. Must apply by 30 September 2021.
RACF nurses are invited to register interest on a waitlist to the SA Health course.
General practice nurses are invited to register interest on a waitlist and may choose to complete studies with either:
- SA Health - Understanding Vaccines and the NIP
- 70 hours of online study and assessment, with a maximum of 20 weeks to complete the course from registration.
- CESPHN are offering successful applicants 100% scholarship to this course
or
- The Benchmarque Group - Immunisation Endorsement Pathway
- 112 hours of online study and assessment in addition to a face to face workshop (virtual option is currently being explored due to current stay at home orders).
- Course involves practice in drawing up and administrating vaccinations in a simulated environment, as well as cold chain management and comprehensive knowledge in working out catch up schedules, assuring those participating are equipped with the knowledge and confidence to deliver vaccinations.
- CESPHN are offering successful applicants 75% scholarship to this course, with the course costing $147.50 to students.
- This course is not suitable for RACF nurses due to the workplace activities required to complete the pathway
Both courses mentioned above are accredited by Health Education Services Australia (HESA) and conform with the National Immunisation Education Framework for Health Professionals.
Upon completion of either course, registered nurses and midwives will have the qualification to administer vaccinations in NSW, independent of a medical officer, as per NSW Health Authority.
How to indicate interest in completing scholarship
General practice nurses: Submit your interest on a waitlist via this form.
RACF nurses: Submit your interest on a waitlist via this form.
Successful applicants will be contacted via email and invited to register with a special discount code.
Previous Benchmarque Scholarship (1 January - 30 June 2021)
Students who applied for Benchmarque scholarship prior to 30 June 2021 are still eligible for 75% reimbursement, so long as the Immunisation Endorsement Certificate is gained prior to 31 December 2021. Upon completion please email certificate to immunisation@cesphn.com.au .
AIR - Mandatory reporting
How to become an Authorised Nurse Immuniser: Accredited programs
- 307 Immunisation for Health Practitioners - Australian College of Nursing*
- Immunisation Endorsement Program - The Benchmarque Group*
Upon completion of accreditation program, a Registered nurse (RN) or Midwife will be able to immunise independent of medical officers in NSW.
If practicing outside of NSW, check health policies in the relevant state or territory to confirm eligibility to immunise independent of medical officers.
*HESA accredited programs - Health Education Services Australia
NSW Policy and Legislation
- Authority for RNs and Midwives Feb 2021 (now inclusive of TGA approved COVID-19 vaccines)
- Authorised Nurse Immuniser Policy Directive Dec 2020
CPD - Continuing Professional Development
- Immunisation Education - webinars, online modules, and workshops
- CESPHN Events (offers CPR courses)
- AHPRA mandatory training
Is CPD compulsory?
To maintain authority to immunise, registered nurses must annually review best practice policy for immunisation.
This may be, but is not limited to, attendance at seminars on current practices. An annual statement of proficiency in cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) must also be obtained.