Enrolled Nurse Vs Registered Nurse Australia | A Comprehenisve Guide

 

Are you planning to pursue nursing in Australia but unsure whether to become an Enrolled Nurse (EN) or a Registered Nurse (RN)? What are the key differences between these two roles, and how do they impact your career path? 

 

Understanding the difference between enrolled nurse and registered nurse is important to make an informed decision about your future in healthcare. 

 

Learn everything you need to know about enrolled nurse vs registered nurse Australia including their responsibilities, educational requirements, and career opportunities in this blog post. 

 

Enrolled Nurse Vs Registered Nurse Australia | Key Differences 

The main difference between an Enrolled Nurse (EN) and a Registered Nurse (RN) lies in their level of education and scope of practice. Enrolled Nurses hold a diploma-level qualification and provide basic nursing care under the supervision of RNs and doctors. 

 

On the other hand, Registered Nurses hold a bachelor’s degree in nursing. They perform more complex medical tasks, make critical decisions, and take on leadership roles.

 

The table below provides a comprehensive overview of enrolled nurse vs registered nurse. Look at the comparison below: 

 

Feature	Enrolled Nurse (EN)	Registered Nurse (RN)
Education Required	Diploma of Nursing (2 years)	Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (3 years)
Scope of Practice	Limited; supervised by RNs	Comprehensive; independent practice
Responsibilities	Basic patient care tasks	Patient assessments; care planning
Career Advancement	Transition to RN	Specializations; leadership roles
Average Salary	$62,418 per year	$76,873 per year

 

Other differences include the following:

 

Differences in Educational Requirements of Enrolled Nurse Vs Registered Nurse

To become an Enroled Nurse, you need to complete a diploma-level qualification in nursing. This program usually takes 1 to 2 years and covers essential nursing skills, patient care, and basic medical knowledge. The curriculum includes both theoretical and practical teaching.

 

To become a Registered Nurse, you need to complete a bachelor’s degree in nursing, which typically takes 3 to 4 years. This program provides a comprehensive education in medical sciences, nursing theory, and clinical practice. It also includes leadership training and opportunities for specialization.

 

Enrolled Nurse Vs Registered Nurse: Differences in Scope of Practice 

Enrolled Nurses perform a range of basic medical tasks and patient care activities. Their duties include:

 

• Monitoring vital signs (e.g., blood pressure, heart rate).
• Administering medications as prescribed.
• Assisting patients with daily activities such as bathing and dressing.
• Providing wound care and changing dressings.
• Supporting patients with mobility and exercise.

 

While, on the other hand, Registered Nurses have a more advanced scope of practice, which includes:

 

• Administering medications and treatments.
• Developing and implementing patient care plans.
• Performing diagnostic tests and interpreting results.
• Providing advanced wound care and managing complex medical conditions.
• Educating patients and their families about health conditions and treatments.

 

Differences in Career Advancement Opportunities

Enrolled Nurses have several pathways for career advancement, including:

 

• Pursuing further education to become an RN.
• Specializing in areas such as aged care, mental health, or community health.
• Taking on senior roles such as senior EN or team leader.

 

Registered Nurses have numerous opportunities for career growth, including:

• Specializing in advanced practice roles such as Nurse Practitioner or Clinical Nurse Specialist.
• Moving into leadership and management positions, such as Nurse Manager or Director of Nursing.
• Pursuing roles in education and research, such as Nurse Educator or Clinical Research Nurse.

 

Enrolled Nurse vs Registered Nurse Salary in Australia

Registered Nurses (RNs) generally earn more than Enrolled Nurses (ENs), reflecting their higher level of education and broader scope of responsibilities. 

 

The average annual salary for RNs is approximately AUD 88,000, while ENs typically earn around AUD 68,000 per year. 

 

However, salaries can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and the specific healthcare setting. 

 

Look at the table below for the average salary comparison of Enrolled and Registered nurses in Australia: 

 

Role	Average Annual Salary	Average Weekly Salary
Enrolled Nurse (EN)	AUD 68,000	AUD 1,310
Registered Nurse (RN)	AUD 88,000	AUD 1,699

 

You should also read:

Top 5 Nursing Occupations in-Demand in Australia

What are Key Requirements to Become an Aged Care Worker in Australia?

 

How to Become a Registered Nurse from an Enrolled Nurse?

If you’re an Enrolled Nurse (EN) looking to become a Registered Nurse (RN) in Australia, follow these steps:

 

• Ensure you have completed a diploma-level qualification as an EN.
• You must have relevant work experience as an EN, which can be beneficial for your application.
• Apply for a Bachelor of Nursing program. Many universities offer pathways specifically designed for ENs to transition to RNs.
• Use your EN qualification and work experience to gain credit towards your degree, which can shorten the duration of your studies.
• Participate in clinical placements as part of your degree to gain hands-on experience in various healthcare settings.
• Upon completing your degree, apply for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) to become a licensed RN.

 

Final Thoughts

Though both Enrolled Nurses and Registered Nurses play essential roles in healthcare delivery, they differ significantly in education requirements, scope of practice, responsibilities, and salary potential. 

 

So, choosing between these paths depends on your career goals, desired level of responsibility, and commitment to education.

 

If you are confused about what to choose, schedule an appointment with our expert at The Migration. We’ll provide you with customized solution after assessing your age, skills, qualifications and work experience.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the difference between an enrolled nurse and a registered nurse in Australia?

In Australia, the main difference between an Enrolled Nurse (EN) and a Registered Nurse (RN) is their level of education and scope of practice. 

 

ENs hold a diploma-level qualification and provide basic nursing care under the supervision of RNs and doctors. RNs, on the other hand, hold a bachelor’s degree in nursing, allowing them to perform more complex medical tasks, make critical decisions, and take on leadership roles. 

 

What are the limitations of an enrolled nurse?

Enrolled Nurses (ENs) have some limitations compared to Registered Nurses (RNs). They must work under the supervision of RNs or doctors and cannot make independent clinical decisions.

Their scope of practice is defined by regulations and they must adhere to the care plans developed by RNs.

 

Is enrolled nurse in PR list in Australia?

Yes, Enrolled Nurses (ENs) can apply for permanent residency (PR) in Australia through various skilled migration visas, such as the 189, 190, and 491 visas.

 

Is enrolled nurse in demand in Australia?

Enrolled Nurses (ENs) are in demand in Australia due to the increased growth of healthcare sector. The demand is particularly high in aged care, community health, and rural areas where there is a shortage of healthcare professionals. This demand is expected to continue as the population ages and the need for healthcare services increases

 

Can an EN become an RN?

Yes, Enrolled Nurses can pursue further education to become RNs. Many programs offer pathways for ENs to transition to RN roles through additional study and training.

 

What are the career prospects for ENs and RNs?

Both ENs and RNs have strong job prospects, but RNs generally have higher earning potential and more opportunities for specialization and advancement.