The UKCC has designed a new employer information leaflet aimed at gaining assistance for OH nurses in their Prep duties.

Employers and Prep stresses the importance of employers checking the registered status of practitioners, who must be registered before they begin employment.

They are advised to ensure that staff maintain their registration through meeting the post-registration education practice (Prep) standards set by regulatory body the UKCC.

These include undertaking at least 35 hours of relevant learning activity during the three years prior to renewal of registration; maintaining a personal professional profile of this learning activity; and meeting any request from the UKCC to audit compliance with these procedures.

Speaking about the employer's role, Catherine McLoughlin, chairwoman of the NHS Confederation and the UKCC's Prep steering group, said, "Employers can make a major contribution by facilitating and encouraging the continuing professional development of their staff.

"In doing so, they will be demonstrating good employment practice, helping to meet their clinical governance objectives and making a contribution to public protection by ensuring that the registered workforce is fully equipped to meet the needs of their patients and clients."