Education and training needs of nurses in general practice

Abstract

Practice nurses have been identified as key personnel in management of patients either in the prevention of hospitalisation or follow-up post-discharge from acute settings. There is an increase in numbers of practice nurses (PNs) in Australia, but the role of nurses who work in general practice is poorly understood. There is considerable variation in the activities of PNs, which can include functions as diverse as receptionist duties, performing a range of clinical skills at the direction of the medical practitioner, and conducting independent patient assessment and education. This paper reports on an investigation of PNs? perceptions of their ongoing professional development needs, and identifies issues in providing education and training to nurses who work with general practitioners (GPs).