International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics

Greater education requirements for nurses are a positive move which can only lead to better patient care, it has been claimed.

According to Rosie Doy, deputy head of the University of East Anglia School of Nursing and Midwifery, UK, the decision to make nursing a degree-only entry profession in England is a positive move for the health services.

She suggested that nurses with degrees tend to progress further professionally than those who study for a diploma, despite both entering the professional ladder on the same rung.

However, Ms Doy noted that academic achievement should not be the only factor considered when selecting candidates for nursing roles.

She added: "Nursing is not just about knowledge, we are very concerned about the right attitude – the kind of things that patient groups are very concerned about.

"The skills of providing good care, and that's not just the technical side, is what the patient wants."

According to UK health minister Ann Keen, degree level education will provide new nurses with the decision-making skills they need to make "high-level judgements".

Posted by David Smith