DSNs: employment trends and workforce planning
Initial Feedback
More than 838 DSNs and Nurse Consultants took part in the first national database of DSNs and Nurse Consultants working in the United Kingdom (UK). A questionnaire was sent out in September 2009 which asked for information to help address the following questions:
- How many DSNs and Nurse Consultants are working in the UK?
- What is the work setting of DSNs and Nurse Consultants?
- What roles are DSNs and Nurse Consultants carrying out?
- What qualifications have DSNs and Nurse Consultants gained?
- What band level have DSNs and Nurse Consultants been awarded?
Early analysis has shown that:
A 61% response rate was achieved and respondents gave 238 separate job titles representing the role of the DSN of which 76% were Diabetes Specialist Nurse and 2.3% were Nurse Consultants.
Work settings and role
47% of DSNs work in the hospital, 28% work in both the hospital and community and 22% work in the community. 76% indicated that their role includes general adults, 41% inpatients, 23% work in paediatrics but only 10% include research in their role.
Qualifications
- 74% have a diabetes diploma/ certificate
- 17% have a diabetes related degree and 8% have a diabetes related Masters
- 54% have undertaken ad hoc degree modules and 18% have ad hoc Masters modules
- 40% have undertaken non-medical prescribing courses
Diabetes experience
57% of DSNs work full-time in diabetes (37.5 hours per week) and 98% are employed by the NHS. On average, DSNs have 9.6 years of experience working as a DSN. 83% are either Band 6 or Band 7 [median Band 7] and 49% are at the top of their band. 44% are due to retire in the next 10 years.
Leadership
89% report to have a clinical lead for the service, in 85% of services this is the Consultant and 9% this is a Nurse.
By repeating this study annually we aim to help predict manpower, services needs over time and assist with workforce planning. We thank all those who took part this year and look forward to your continuing support in 2010.
For more information contact:
www.diabetes.nhs.uk