The nurse consultant (NC) is still a relatively new role in the UK, and has yet to be evaluated. However, they are well established in countries such as Australia, particularly nurse consultants in infection control (NCIC). Core competencies have also helped define their roles (Macbeth, 1999; Winchcombe, 2000). So in 2003, following a successful application for the ICNA travel award, I was able to visit Australia to see how the role has developed so far.
Health Service Circular (1999) HSC1999/123. Governance in the New NHS: Controls Assurance Standards 1999-2000: Organisational Control and Risk Management. NHSE: Leeds.
2.
Macbeth D. (1999) Pathway to credentials. AustralianInfection Control4(4): 21-5.
3.
Murphy CL, McLaws M. (2000) Australian Infection Control Association members' use of skills and resources that promote evidence-based infection control . American Journal of Infection Control28(2): 116-22.
4.
Winchcombe J. (2000) Competency standards in the context of infection control. American Journal of Infection Control28(30): 228-32.
