NMC issues new guidance on remote prescribing for aesthetic nursing

Now, many of us understand that prescribing is not for everyone. However, having access to and governance of prescription-only medicines (POMs), is now a fundamental requirement for today's modern aesthetic nursing practice.

Those of us holding prescribing qualifications understand that prescriptions must be made in line with the requirements of the NMC Code of Practice (NMC, 2019a), and also within the individual's scope of practice.

Furthermore, one must prescribe in line with the best available evidence and the requirements of all relevant legislation, as well as any policies, standards and guidance that underpin the Code (NMC, 2019b).

Until recently, one could perhaps be excused for not having fully grasped prescribing practice, especially with respect to the question of remote prescribing within the private aesthetic sector. However, that is no longer the case.

The issue of remote prescribing within the private aesthetic nursing sector had previously given rise to misunderstanding, uncertainty and much confusion for registrants. They would then frequently compare and contrast their NHS prescribing practices with their private aesthetic nursing practice, and the problem here is that these are indeed different.