NMC Professional Practice Director discusses nursing associate role on podcast

Dr Sam Donohue, Acting Executive Director of Professional Practice for the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), recently joined registered nursing associate (NA) Martyn Davey on his podcast Just a Sharp Scratch.

In this latest episode, ‘Back To The Future Part 2: Back To Where It Began, Dr Sam Donohue On Nursing Associates,’ Sam shares her insights about the successes, challenges, and next steps for the role.

Sam, who played an integral part in establishing the NA profession, reflects on the initial vision behind the role, and how it has successfully evolved with more than 10,000 professionals now registered to practise.

Within the episode, Sam and Martyn discuss how NAs have bridged the gap between healthcare assistants and registered nurses in England since 2019, providing care and support for people of all ages, ethnicities and backgrounds across a variety of health and social care settings.

While a profession in its own right, the NA role also provides a pathway into graduate level nursing for those who wish to do so. To date, more than 3,000 NAs have gone on to become registered nurses. 

Sam also explains the important role NAs played during the COVID-19 pandemic, collaborating with and supporting other health and care professionals during a time of crisis.

She also highlights the importance of education, encouraging approved education institutions to be bold, creative and innovative so that future NAs continue to deliver the best care for people once they qualify.

Sam Donohue, NMC Acting Executive Director of Professional Practice, said: “Nursing associates play such an integral part within the health and care system in England.

“Their skills, knowledge and commitment are vital as they work in partnership with nurses to deliver the high-quality care people have the right to receive.”

She added: “The journey to establish this role wasn’t always easy, but it’s so rewarding to see more than 10,000 nursing associates now on the NMC register.

“We must continue to share stories about nursing associates, and the vital care and support they provide for people every day.

“These professionals have so much to be proud of, and I’m excited to see what lies ahead for this role.”

Photo by Jean Balzan from Pexels