GPs need to consider offering their practice nurses training in paediatric care, it was claimed today.

A report published today shows that just 1% of practice nurses are registered as children’s nurses.

The report of the Queen’s Nursing Institute says there is a “huge opportunity” for increased investment in practice nurses.

Paediatricians said the report showed child health was a key issue.

According to the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, some 25% of patients seen in general practice are children.

President Professor Neena Modi said many practices ensured nurses had training in vaccinating children.

She added: “25% of patients seen in general practices are children. This report clearly raises the issue that only 1% of general practice nurses (GPN) are registered as children’s nurses.

“The RCPCH are concerned that general practice nurses should have access to appropriate education and support to deliver evidence based care to all the children they see.”

Dr Crystal Oldman, chief executive of the Queen’s Nursing Institute, said: “This survey validates the role of the general practice nurse and the support provided by nurses in general practice at every point during a person’s life, from infancy, childhood, adolescence and adulthood, to middle and older age. They are a vital part of the healthcare system in every part of the UK.

“The findings of the survey indicate some major challenges and opportunities which need to be addressed.

“The role of nurses in general practice is expanding rapidly, and many of today’s nurses are now undertaking roles traditionally the reserve of GPs.

“There is a huge opportunity for increased investment in the general practice nurse workforce, to build the capacity of primary care, move more care to the community and closer to people’s own homes, and ease the pressures on A&E.”

Exclusive news produced for Practice Index by Englemed News

—————-

Trending topics in the forum:
2016 – Annual pay rise?
CQC and employee files
Phlebotomy – taking bloods from the under 18s
Counting the cost of a CQC inspection