We know that as a busy nurse your free time is precious. And we know that as long as demand stays high for flexible healthcare support, you’re going to be busy for years to come! Nurses are in high demand across the UK as the NHS continues to recover from the effects of the pandemic. There are now around 46,000 nursing vacancies across the UK and government aims to recruit 50,000 new nurses by 2024.

 

This is a great opportunity for newly qualified nurses and those looking to change specialisms to find roles that work for them, advancing their careers and getting experience under their belts. Which is why when it comes to applying for your next great agency nursing role you should be able to do so quickly and easily. A huge part of that is having your compliance documentation ready and up to date. Unorganised paperwork can be a huge source of worry and stress, which is the last thing you need! These useful tips will help you to keep your documentation organised and ready to find your perfect role.

The compliance documents you will need before starting a new agency nursing job

All healthcare professionals must be fully compliant before they start work. Most importantly you’ll need to be registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council, which means you’ll need a recognised nursing degree.

Before starting a new nursing role here’s what you’ll also need:

• CV and clinical references
• Enhanced DBS check on the updated service
• Proof of indemnity insurance
• Passport or photo ID if British/Irish
• Proof of right to work in the UK
• Life Support Training
• Mandatory Training
• Immunisation record
• Primary Medical Qualification
• Proof of address

This is a list of the most common compliance documents you’ll need and a great place to start. However, compliance requires non-document-based activities too like interviews, etc.

Keeping your compliance documents up to date will help you avoid unnecessary stress and paperwork whilst you are looking for a new role. Being organised with your documentation can also help you when you come to submitting revalidation applications and even evidencing reflective practice.

5 tips for keeping your compliance documents up to date

These five tips will help you keep your compliance documentation relevant and up to date so that you will be ready to apply for your next nursing role quickly and efficiently:

1. Make time to plan your career
Where do you want to be in five years? Are you looking to move into a new speciality, seek promotion, move to a new Trust, or improve your clinical performance? Once you understand your goal, you’ll know how best to approach your compliance documentation. Research any new roles and what certifications, professional development, and compliance you will need.

2. Regularly update your CV
Was the last time you looked at you CV the last time you applied for a job? Rather than waiting to update your CV, try to keep it current by adding any new certifications, training, or responsibilities as and when you achieve them. That way the details will be fresh in your mind and your CV will always be ready so you can take advantage of opportunities quickly.

3. Store related documents together
Being a nurse means being organised for your patients! But can you say the same about yourself? Treat your personal file management the same way you would your patient responsibilities at work. Keep all your compliance documents in the same place, organised by date and avoid keeping hold of unnecessary paperwork. For peace of mind, you can scan and digitise copies of important documents as a backup. Remember to add a date to all documents. You can set reminders in your personal diary, phone, Gmail, Outlook, etc. To remind you to update any paperwork that is about to expire too.

4. Build your network
Developing connections within your professional network can be a big help when it comes to finding a mentor, getting references, and building a supportive network who can provide advice. The RCN also has professional forums and networks you can join to find new opportunities and learn about the latest courses and events to aid your professional development.

5. Keep learning and growing as a nurse
Speaking of courses and events… The best thing you can do to keep organised and evolving your practice is to commit to ongoing learning and professional development. Carving out time for reflective practice can help you look back effectively and learn from your experiences. And above all, never be afraid to ask for help.

Compliance documentation still causing you stress? We can help!

At ProMedical, we pride ourselves on a quick and effective compliance process that helps you avoid unneeded stress and worry. Our recruitment process is simple, efficient, and designed to suit you. Once you register your interest, one of our consultants will be in touch with you to discuss your specific requirements.

After this you will be allocated to our dedicated compliance team, who will ensure that you become fully compliant and ready to start your new role.

Search our newest roles or get in touch with us today.