It’s no secret that many nurses, in particular Registered Nurses (RNs), find themselves in the profession because they want to help people. They feel a calling to heal the sick or just make someone’s bad day a little better. In most cases, the hours aren’t family-friendly, the coffee is barely passable, and the money, well, it isn’t a huge drawcard. At some point, an RN might wish to explore other opportunities that their hard-earned degree can present. And it’s a sure bet that the term “cosmetic nursing” has come across their radar. So what is cosmetic nursing?
Cosmetic nursing is a specialised area of nursing whereby non-surgical techniques are used to enhance or otherwise alter a person’s appearance. This is sometimes achieved by using cosmetic injectables such.
An RN working in a cosmetic clinic can do so under certain criteria and in compliance with appropriate state-based legislation. As with any nursing practice, there is a scope that must be strictly adhered to. Cosmetic nursing involves planning care with the client, assessing the client to ensure the planned care is appropriate, and informing them of any risks. Administering the cosmetic injectables in a safe manner and educating the client about aftercare are also part of the process. Other areas include infection prevention and control measures, advertising and policies and procedures drawn up by individual clinics. Ahpra’s position statement clearly outlines, for example, that RNs are not permitted to prescribe Schedule 4 cosmetic injectables and must receive suitable education relating to their practice.
An RN must be appropriately trained in the processes involved and be confident and capable, not just competent. These criteria of course go hand-in-hand with the guidelines put out by Ahpra concerning not just cosmetic injectables but nursing duties in general, such as their decision-making framework and code of conduct. RNs are responsible for making the decision themselves whether something is in their scope of practice, as determined by the above – whether they are capable, competent and confident.
One of cosmetic nursing’s greatest appeals is its work-life balance. Clinics operate during normal retail hours – usually during the day and late-night shopping. No more night shifts and, depending on your contract, you can elect to work public holidays and receive the penalties, or have the day to yourself. You can work around family or travel, and you are guaranteed to be free most evenings for dinner with friends.
The remuneration for cosmetic nurses is another major attractant. Cosmetic injectables are a booming industry, and the pay is in line with what clients expect and demand – expert, safe service from highly trained professionals. You may be able to negotiate your salary or wage, unlike many government or private health care settings. And with the increasing demand for cosmetic injectables, a highly trained RN can almost name their price.
For some practitioners, working with a passing parade of patients is not their ideal workday. With cosmetic nursing, you can build a relationship with your clients and work with them to create a look they can wear with confidence. And if you can’t imagine yourself in navy scrubs, a smart uniform might be more to your liking – you can rest assured your makeup won’t run as you’re working a code on a ward. There’s generally less stress and little risk of having to deal with a life-threatening emergency in cosmetic nursing.
An RN registered with Ahpra will need approximately 12 months in a related area before they are considered suitable to begin a career in cosmetic injectables – think plastic surgery, dermatology or surgical nursing. Follow this up with appropriate training through a recognised college, maintaining competencies and ongoing industry education, and knowing in yourself that you are a safe and competent practitioner, and you’re ready to begin work. Of course, the college you choose is an essential part of your pathway to cosmetic injectables nursing, as are the modules you complete. Practical components are important for hands-on learning, and only working with live models will give you the experience you need.
Once you are on your way, there are numerous paths you can take. Opening your own clinic might be a dream for some, and this is entirely possible. The correct course will give you the business knowledge needed to operate an aesthetics practice. You may wish to work for an established store to gain experience, and of course, not everyone wants to own their own business. You might find yourself working alongside a medical professional such as a dermatologist, a plastic surgeon, or in a private clinic. A medical spa could be more to your liking. If you prefer a hospital setting, cosmetic nurses are needed for pre- and post-operative patients undergoing more invasive cosmetic procedures.
If you would like to know more about getting started or your next steps, contact a registered college for more information on cosmetic nursing courses.
Derma Medical is an accredited provider of cosmetic nursing courses nationwide for healthcare professionals. If you’re new to cosmetic medicine or looking to expand your nursing career, our cosmetic nursing training provides a strong foundation, hands-on experience, and support to help you succeed in the field.
Here’s why nurses choose to study with us:
Ready to start or elevate your career in aesthetic nursing? Contact Derma Medical or explore our Cosmetic Nursing Courses to find a program that fits your career goals. Gain experience and build the confidence to take the next step in your nursing career today.
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