Grading system

• UK currently has a grading system that in part defines responsibility and accountability

• A “D” grade is a newly qualified nurse

• An “E” may be an experienced nurse who has undertaken a critical care course

• An “F” grade staff nurse has been qualified for about 4-5 years and deputises for ward manager

• A “G” grade is a ward sister/manager and has 24 hour responsibility for the unit/ward- all staff are accountable to this person

• An “I” grade will be a senior nurse, often with minimal clinical function