This unit is designed to equip the General Practice Nurse (GPN) student at an enhanced level with a greater depth of knowledge to fulfil the role whilst working with different models of care delivery in the evolving, challenging context of Primary Healthcare. Students will use critical analysis and underpinning knowledge to fulfil competencies and core professional skills in managing consultations and improving health and care outcomes and experiences for patients. 

A range of learning and teaching methods will be used, such as, lectures, seminars, specialist skills theme days, cytology and child/adult immunisations, blended learning, work-based learning supported by practice mentors. Technology enhanced learning and simulation.

The focus of the unit will be upon critical analysis and enhanced knowledge for the evolving role of the General Practice Nurse, current and future practice.

There will be a range of professional and clinical skills taught including

• Consultation skills, managing clinics and annual reviews
• Communication and collaboration skills
• Quality Improvement and managing change within the primary healthcare context
• Health promotion, screening, prevention, care and treatment in specialist topics such as Cardiovascular Disease, Respiratory Disease, Sexual Health and Contraception.
• Focus upon living with complex and multiple conditions
• Working in integrated primary and community healthcare teams and systems, integrated health and social care. Neighbourhood integrated teams
• QoF and improving patient quality outcomes
• Professional and personal development as a GPN
• To provide safe and effective evidenced based practice in the primary care setting

This course requires 100% attendance.

Intended Learning Outcomes 

1. To critically appraise the professional knowledge and skills required for quality improvement and fulfil the role of General Practice Nurse in the evolving and changing world of primary care nursing
2. To critically discuss and analyse patient outcomes aligned to the GP contract and Quality outcomes Framework
3. To critically discuss the underpinning knowledge and skills base of the GPN in managing consultations in care for people across the life span and with concurrent, complex, physical, mental, cognitive, social care needs.
4. To critically evaluate the core personal and professional skills required to function in the professional role of the GPN working in the context of primary care healthcare setting 

Assessment

Assessed by students’ presentation of their Service Improvement project

• Service Improvement Project
• 3,000 words

PG Cert Primary Care

Upon successful completion of this course and the General Practice Nursing Course 1 – Foundation at L7 the General Practice Nurse may be entitled to work towards a PG Cert Primary Care by completing a further 20 credit Level 7 unit - choosing from three options:

• Paediatric Presenting Conditions in Urgent and Primary Care
• Care of Clients with Minor Illness
• Care of Clients with Long Term Conditions