<P> The NMC approves higher education institutions to deliver programmes . They currently accredit 1000 programmes in 79 education institutions across the UK . </P> <P> When students successfully complete their programme, their education institution will let the NMC know that they have met the education and practice standards and are of good health and good character . If they are deemed fit to practise they will then be eligible to apply to join the register . Each year the NMC receives over 22,000 newly qualified nurses and midwives from education institutions . </P> <P> As of October 2015 there are 685,000 nurses and midwives on the NMC register, meaning the NMC is the body responsible for regulating the largest number of healthcare professionals in the UK . Nurses and midwives must be on the NMC register to practise in the UK . Anyone is able to search the NMC register . </P> <P> The NMC's revised code became effective on 31 March 2015 . The code contains professional standards of practice and behaviour that all nurses and midwives must keep to . Four key sections describe what nurses and midwives are expected to do: prioritise people practise effectively preserve safety, and promote professionalism and trust . </P>

Nursing and midwifery council of the united kingdom