TL;DR: Rachel Booker explores what is new in the NICE guideline for the management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), published in February.
Abstract: Rachel Booker explores what is new in the NICE guideline for the management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), published in February
TL;DR: Ruth Hallam-Jones discusses the management of erection problems in men and considers the case of David, who suffered from erectile problems and had to have his penis removed.
Abstract: Ruth Hallam-Jones discusses the management of erection problems in men and considers the case of David
TL;DR: This research highlights practice nurses’ training needs in order to meet new national guidelines in diabetes care and gives an insight into practice nurses' perceptions of their scope and level of practice in primary diabetes care.
Abstract: The aim of this qualitative study is to explore practice nurses’ perceptions of their role in providing diabetes care. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 purposively selected general practice nurses working in the Northwest of England. Five main themes were identified through coding and demonstrate that definitions of diabetes service are complex and that variations exist in perceptions of care. The main findings give an insight into practice nurses’ perceptions of their scope and level of practice in primary diabetes care. This research highlights practice nurses’ training needs in order to meet new national guidelines in diabetes care.
TL;DR: The role of practice nurses in the management of migraines is explored in a series of articles published in the British Journal of General Practitioners and Surgeons.
Abstract: Heather MacBean, Julie Leech, Jan Dungay and Andrew Dowson explore the role of practice nurses in the management of migraines
TL;DR: Concerns about growing resistance to fusidic acid are discussed, and how those treating common skin infections can help to avert the problem are suggested.
Abstract: Dr Barry Monk discusses concerns about growing resistance to fusidic acid, and suggests how those treating common skin infections can help to avert the problem
TL;DR: Victoria Bourne looks at the treatment of Mr Thomas whose venous insufficiency went undiagnosed for a number of years and what might have been done to correct the problem.
Abstract: Victoria Bourne looks at the treatment of Mr Thomas whose venous insufficiency went undiagnosed for a number of years
TL;DR: An intitiative which has involved patients and the public in the use and planning of cancer services in south Wales is reported on.
Abstract: Phil Cotterell, John Sitzia and Alison Richardson report on an intitiative which has involved patients and the public in the use and planning of cancer services
TL;DR: The new approaches to practice nurse appraisal are discussed, which aim to provide a more holistic view of practice nurse performance and improve the quality of care and efficiency.
Abstract: Julia Ann Styles, Margaret Burgham-Malin and Sarah Bayliss discuss the new approaches to practice nurse appraisal
TL;DR: There is a great shortage of pulmonary rehabilitation programmes for those who need them, and practice nurses could make a contribution, according to Denise Gibbons.
Abstract: There is a great shortage of pulmonary rehabilitation programmes for those who need them. Denise Gibbons asks if practice nurses could make a contribution
TL;DR: A nurse-led PMS pilot providing health care for the homeless in Winchester is revealed, with results showing improvements in mental health and physical well-being.
Abstract: Lesley Atherton, Julie Stepney, Jill Hamilton and Ben Smart reveal the work of a nurse-led PMS pilot providing health care for the homeless in Winchester
TL;DR: Practices worked with colleagues in the community mental health team to encourage patients to attend for an annual check with a practice nurse to promote concordance with follow-up tests or treatment.
Abstract: Research has shown that people with long-term mental health difficulties often suffer poor general health and are at risk of premature death. An audit in primary care showed that these patients had low rates of access to physical health screening and health promotion. Practices worked with colleagues in the community mental health team to encourage patients to attend for an annual check with a practice nurse. Outcomes are sent to the mental health team so that they can promote concordance with follow-up tests or treatment. Attendance rates have been high and unmet need has been revealed. Practice nurses and mental health staff are developing a better understanding of each others' roles.
TL;DR: A small study whose aim was to raise awareness among primary health professionals of the difficulties faced by people with learning disabilities in accessing primary health care was described.
Abstract: Dorothy Black describes a small study whose aim was to raise awareness among primary health professionals of the difficulties faced by people with learning disabilities in accessing primary health care
TL;DR: Brad's ‘hay fever’ symptoms have worsened but he needs to be fit for work and Jill, his practice nurse, suggests a change of antihistamine.
Abstract: Brad's ‘hay fever’ symptoms have worsened but he needs to be fit for work. Jill, his practice nurse, suggests a change of antihistamine. Stuart Wood investigates
TL;DR: Sue Cross provides some practical advice to give parents and carers of schoolchildren with asthma about what to expect at school and how to care for their children.
Abstract: Sue Cross provides some practical advice to give parents and carers of schoolchildren with asthma
TL;DR: Jenny Bentley looks at how to ensure efficient tissue repair through preparation of the wound, and highlights the variety of available wound management products.
Abstract: Jenny Bentley looks at how to ensure efficient tissue repair through preparation of the wound, and highlights the variety of available wound management products
TL;DR: Brigid McKevith and colleagues consider the evidence for the nutritional benefits of antioxidants and suggest that antioxidants should be considered as a single substance rather than a group of nutrients.
Abstract: Brigid McKevith and colleagues consider the evidence for the nutritional benefits of antioxidants
TL;DR: Linda Campbell investigates the effectiveness of the retention bandage, Acti-Wrap, in wound healing and finds it to be effective in promoting wound healing.
Abstract: Linda Campbell investigates the effectiveness of the retention bandage, Acti-Wrap, in wound healing
TL;DR: The use of a hydrogel dressing, ActiFormCool, to treat sunburn in two patients is assessed and it is found that it reduces the likelihood of future sunburn.
Abstract: Eleanor Wilkinson assessed the use of a hydrogel dressing, ActiFormCool, to treat sunburn in two patients
TL;DR: Pharmacological knowledge and the introduction of the nurse prescribers’ extended formulary enables nurses to advise on the purchase of over-the-counter medication or issue a prescription, providing a complete episode of care by a single professional.
Abstract: common reason for consultations in general practice (Main and Williams, 2002). Patients may treat many of their minor injuries themselves if advised correctly, and the practice nurse is in a position to assess, diagnose and assist with the self-management of such injuries. Although some injuries may be more serious, requiring referral to the GP or accident and emergency department, early identification of these by the nurse enables appropriate care and referrals to be instigated. Pharmacological knowledge and the introduction of the nurse prescribers’ extended formulary enables nurses to advise on the purchase of over-the-counter (OTC) medication or issue a prescription, providing a complete episode of care by a single professional.
TL;DR: An update on liquid-based cervical cytology is provided which is slowly being implemented across the UK under the NHS Cervical Screening Programme.
Abstract: Maggie Cooper provides an update on liquid-based cervical cytology which is slowly being implemented across the UK under the NHS Cervical Screening Programme