Independent/Supplementary Prescriber Preparation

The University of Lincoln Prescriber Preparation Programme is accessed over a six month period. The 60-credit course at level 7 (Masters level) comprises two modules:
NUR9045M: Individualised Consultation (30 credit module)
NUR9051M: Prescribing Governance (30 credit module).

By the end of this programme of educational preparation, students must be able to demonstrate achievement against A Competency Framework for all Prescribers (RPS, 2016).

Within the RPS framework, there are ten competencies split into two domains. Within each of the ten competency dimensions there are statements which describe the activity or outcomes prescribers should be able to demonstrate.

For all categories of prescriber, the RPS framework applies in full and demonstration of all those competencies contained within it must be achieved in order to pass the programme and apply for annotation as a prescriber with the NMC.

Additionally, it is recognised that nurses and midwives need to apply professionalism to all aspects of their practice in line with The Code (NMC, 2018) and to act in accordance with these alongside the competency framework.

For all categories of prescriber, the RPS framework applies in full and demonstration of all those competencies contained within it must be achieved in order to pass the programme and apply for annotation as a prescriber with the NMC or HCPC.

Successful completion of this Postgraduate Certificate Prescriber Preparation will ensure that the NMC or HCPC registrant can practise safely, appropriately and effectively so that, following annotation with their professional body, they can assume full responsibility and accountability for their professional practice as Independent/Supplementary Prescribers.

The composition and delivery of the course includes face to face lectures from academic team members and guest clinicians, academic tutorials, directed and self-directed study, practical workshops and clinical practice experience.

This Postgraduate Certificate is for NMC and HCPC registrants from eligible professions who wish to undertake an accredited Independent/Supplementary Prescribing qualification.

The programme considers the theoretical perspectives associated with evidence-based therapeutics and the consultation process, including concordance and the legal, ethical, and professional issues associated with the Independent/Supplementary prescribing role.

The programme supports the application of theoretical knowledge to practice by incorporating a minimum of 12 days (90 hours) of supervised clinical experience in which students work alongside, and are assessed, by their Practice Assessor. In addition, students will receive supervision and guidance from a Practice Supervisor who is also an experienced prescriber.

The University delivered learning is applied and further developed in clinical practice, enabling students to enhance their skills including the specific competencies required to prescribe safely, effectively, and appropriately within their own area of professional clinical expertise (RPS, 2016).

This Independent/Supplementary Prescriber Preparation Postgraduate Certificate is approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), is subject to approval by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

The Programme conforms to Realising Professionalism: Standards for education and training Part 1: Standards framework for nursing and midwifery education, Part 2: Standards for student supervision and assessment, Part 3: Standards for prescribing programmes (NMC, 2018) , the HCPC Standards for Prescribing (2019) and the Allied Health Professions Federation Outline Curriculum Framework (2018).