What is the difference between registered and registered nurses in Australia?

There are two categories of nurses who are registered to practice in Australia: Registered Nurses (EN) and Registered Nurses (RN). Registered nurses have successfully completed a nursing degree course, while registered nurses are certified / diploma trained. Registered nurses are called Division I nurses, while registered nurses are Division II nurses. They both work as part of a healthcare team and work at the primary, secondary and tertiary care levels.

To become an EN, you must study full-time for 12 to 18 months, through a state or private training provider for a course leading to a Diploma or Certificate in EN. To become a Registered Nurse in Australia, you will need to take a course of study at a University to earn a Bachelor of Nursing certification. Generally, the duration of the full-time course is three and a half years.

In Australia, both RN and EN are employed in general practices and are an integral part of the healthcare team. They must collaborate and work closely with the various activities of physicians, surgeons, other nurses or midwives, and other members of the health care team. Registered nurses in Australia can work in any healthcare setting and are considered competent to use skills such as patient assessment, healthcare planning and evaluation, as well as the ability to provide healthcare interventions. Nurses working in general practice may be asked to expand their services as needed in specific circumstances and situations.

Registered nurses must work at all times, either directly or indirectly, under the supervision of registered nurses. However, the registered nurse is responsible for her own actions, even though the registered nurse may be supervising her work. The RN is responsible for appropriately delegating work to the EN, taking into account the EN’s knowledge, skills, education, and experience and the context of the nursing services to be provided.

Registered nurses have more options in health care than registered nurses; they can become clinical nurses, nurse practitioners, or even managerial positions. They also rank higher on the pay scale.

Registered nurses have greater employment opportunities and can practice in a variety of settings. Registered nurses are a bit more limited because they must work under the supervision of a registered nurse. However, they can progress to become an Advanced Skill EN or they can earn an Advanced Diploma. Many of them start their career as EN and then go on to further study to become RN. They are awarded credit for their diploma course and can continue in the course of undergraduate study to earn an RN degree. Hence, the duration of your course is reduced.

If you want to start your career as a Registered or Division II Nurse, you can start with a Diploma in Nursing, such as a course in Division 2 Registered Nursing. Find a reputable health education provider and start your career as a registered nurse! today!