Compulsory training provides nurses with the ability, knowledge, and sensitivity needed to work effectively and safely. Mandatory training protects health professionals and patients and enables you to meet the legal, organizational, and professional requirements.
Most private and NHS trusts apply the Core Skills Training Framework (CSTF) that states the essential subjects in which all staff members of health should be trained.
Mandatory Training Checklist for Nurses
Below is a list of the major topics most recently graduated nurses are expected to complete as part of their induction or in-service training:
1. Basic Life Support (BLS)
Learn basic CPR and emergency intervention techniques. It is commonly your first and most critical training.
- Infection Prevention and Control
Learn how to control infection transmission through good hygiene, the utilization of PPE, and proper equipment handling.
- Fire Safety
Covers fire emergency procedure, operating fire extinguishers, and evacuation.
- Health and Safety
Provides you with a sound grounding in workplace safety, hazard identification, and reporting incidents.
- Moving and Handling
Shows you how to move patients safely and prevent injury to yourself or others.
- Equality, Diversity, and Human Rights
Encourages inclusive care and reminds you of your duties under the Equality Act.
- Safeguarding (Adults and Children)
Understand how to identify abuse or neglect and report appropriately.
- Information Governance and Data Protection
Includes patient confidentiality, GDPR, and the appropriate handling of sensitive information.
- Conflict Resolution and Lone Working
Shows how to deal with challenging situations and remain safe when working alone.
- Mental Capacity Act & Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS)
Understand how to look after those who may lack the capacity to make decisions and the legal safeguards that are in place.
When Should You Do These?
Your employers will likely give you mandatory training as part of your induction period — online, classroom, or blended format. Some training will require an update annually or every few years, depending on your workplace policy and your job.
Top Tips for Newly Qualified Nurses
• Secure Certificates: Set up a digital folder to keep all your training certificates.
- Ask for Clarification: If in doubt about a training course, speak to your line manager or HR department.
- Refresh: Healthcare guidelines change, so keeping refresher training up to date is essential.
Use Genuine Platforms: Only do training from well-established providers who are CSTF compliant.
Final Thoughts
Beginning as a newly qualified nurse is a key milestone, and getting through your required training is something you need to do. Consider it to be a safety net for your patients, but also for yourself. It provides you with the confidence and capability to offer high-quality, professional care right from the outset.
By ticking off everything on this checklist, you’ll be better prepared to hit the ground running in your new role.