It says the details 'explode the myth' that front-line NHS services will be protected from cuts.
The number of posts lost or earmarked to be cut in the NHS has doubled since April to around 9,970 at the end of June, according to RCN research.
A report produced as part of the college's 'protect the frontline' campaign says nurses and nursing posts are being targeted as well as non-clinical roles.
The ongoing study has found many trusts are looking to dilute skill mix as a way to save money. Several trusts are also looking to ‘re-band or down-band posts’ to save extra cash.
Few trusts are exploring innovative ways to find efficiencies or considering clinical evidence when reconfiguring services, says the report.
RCN chief executive Dr Peter Carter said trusts were adopting a ‘a slash and burn approach’ that will have a ‘disastrous effect’ on local services.
'Frontline staff know where the efficiencies can be made and trusts should therefore engage with staff to ensure better care,' he said.
The coalition government has committed to protecting 'frontline services’ during its quest to find £15-20bn in efficiency savings in the next four years.