bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Empowerment through research
Authors: Walters Ruth
Published: May 2014

Ruth Walters, a practice nurse in East London, tells how she has extended her role through education and learnt the value of research.
Diagnosis and treatment of the feverish child
Authors: Charlton Rodger , Smith Gary
Published: May 2014

Rodger Charlton and Gary Smith explain how to care for feverish children who present in general practice, often with worried parents
Rubella: Its effects and prevention with MMR
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

Dr Jean Watkins reviews the differential diagnosis of rubella and its affect on fetus, and argues for the importance of complete uptake of the MMR vaccination
Practice nurse's BSc awarded in own home
Authors: Massam Margaret ‘Peggy’
Published: May 2014

Peggy Massam has been extending her practice since 1987 and has just been awarded her BSc with Honours. She spoke to Liam Benison
Complications of type 2 diabetes
Authors: Capaldi Brenda
Published: May 2014

Brenda Capaldi argues that the cardiovascular risks of type 2 diabetes need to be addressed comprehensively. She examines the experience of Mary in detail.
Pityriasis rosea and guttate psoriasis
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

Pityriasis rosea and guttate psoriasis are common conditions. While both present a rash as the main feature, the underlying causes are different and sometimes difficult to determine. Closer inspection of the rash and its presentation reveal certain characteristics which help to make the correct diagnosis. The patient can then be offered a satisfactory explanation of the problem and be informed of how it can be managed.
Improving sleep and asthma control
Authors: Pinn Stephen
Published: May 2014

Stephen Pinn reports from the American Thoracic Society's recent Seattle conference on new ways to improve patients' control of symptoms.
Effectiveness in retention bandaging
Authors: Campbell Linda
Published: May 2014

Linda Campbell investigates the effectiveness of the retention bandage, Acti-Wrap, in wound healing
Care for the homeless: A nurse-run PMS
Authors: Atherton Lesley , Stepney Julie , Hamilton Jill , Smart Ben
Published: May 2014

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
Asthma UK resources better symptom control
Authors: Fitzsimons Louise
Published: May 2014

Asthma UK launched its new identity on World Asthma Day, 4 May, with a report revealing the experience of living with severe asthma. Louise Fitzsimons explains
A twice-weekly steroid regimen for eczema
Authors: Berth-Jones John
Published: May 2014

Dr John Berth-Jones discusses the results of recent studies showing that a maintenance regimen of fluticasone propionate twice weekly combined with emollients can control atopic eczema more effectively
Implementing best practice in depression
Authors: Tovey Andrew Mark , Harvey Lesley
Published: May 2014

Andrew Mark Tovey and Lesley Harvey discuss the implemention of best practice in depression through a GP liaison mental health service
Are you a future QNI award winner?
Authors: Pearson Anne
Published: May 2014

The search is on for the next winners of the Queen's Nursing Institute (QNI) Innovative and Creative Practice Awards Scheme. If you are a practice nurse working in England, Wales or Northern Ireland, the QNI can offer you funding and support to develop a project that will enhance the care and lives of your patients.
Janet Bell: Recognize and pamper
Authors: Jolin Lucy
Published: May 2014

Janet Bell spoke to Lucy Jolin about her career and aims for next year's RCN Practice Nurse Conference
Accidents abroad
Authors: Sinclair Jean
Published: May 2014

Jean Sinclair considers what advice can be provided to travellers concerning the risk accidents while abroad
Perceptions of the nurse practitioner role
Authors: Carr Jacqui , Thom Natasha , Rogers Sue
Published: May 2014

Practice nurses' perceptions of the nurse practitioner role have not been widely investigated. It is the aim of this study to identify considerations that would influence a practice nurse's decision to become a nurse practitioner. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 practice nurses in three primary care trusts in England. Collected data was examined by content analysis. It was found that confusion remains about the definition of the nurse practitioner role and the academic requirements to become one.
Answering clinical questions
Authors: Brassey Jon , Carrier Judith
Published: May 2014

Have you used the NLH Primary Care Question Answering Service? Jon Brassey and Judith Carrier explain how it could help you
The management of hyperlipidaemia
Authors: Foxton Julie
Published: May 2014

Julie Foxton reviews the evidence base for the treatment of hyperlipidaemia with dietary and pharmacological interventions and foreshadows stricter cholesterol targets in UK national guidelines
The ASCOT study: Implications for nurses
Authors: McCallum Carole
Published: May 2014

Carole McCallum details the preliminary findings from ASCOT and highlights the implications for practice nurses Carole
Alleviating the distress of threadworms
Authors: Hamilton Sarah
Published: May 2014

Sarah Hamilton explains how to deal with the problem of threadworm infections which affect many children, as well as adults
Tackling weight gain after smoking cessation
Authors: Greener Mark
Published: May 2014

Mark Greener explains the links between smoking and weight gain and why a two-pronged approach to helping smokers quit is necessary
Smoking resolutions
Authors: Benison Liam
Published: May 2014

Happy new year. As we enter the season of new year's resolutions, many smokers will be vowing to give up. The government's plan to exempt drink-only pubs and clubs, as well as Crown property, from the smoking ban could make smokers' task that much harder.
Valuing difference
Authors: Williamson Toby
Published: May 2014

New figures from the Healthcare Commission show that black African and Caribbean people in the UK are three times more likely to be admitted to hospital and up to 44% more likely to be detained under the Mental Health Act 1983 despite the fact that the prevalence of mental health problems among this group may not be any higher.
Coeliac disease: A lifelong need for care
Authors: Stevens Richard
Published: May 2014

Richard Stevens reviews the management of coeliac disease and the practice nurses role, following the publication of guidelines from the Primary Care Society for Gastroenterology
Practice nurses’ terms and conditions:A survey
Authors: Martin Jeannett , Young Lynn
Published: May 2014

There have been significant changes to the NHS during the three terms of this Labour government. These have included The NHS Plan (Department of Health (DH), 2000), which established increased access and choice for patients; the national service frameworks, which have set standards for key areas of care; and the new General Medical Services contract (British Medical Association and NHS Confederation, 2003) which was implemented in April 2004. All of these developments have impacted on the role of clinicians working in general practice.
Juggling the changes: Are there too many?
Authors: Ashby Carmel ME
Published: May 2014

Carmel Ashby reports on the discussions and discoveries at the 16th Annual Derbyshire Practice Nurse Conference
Welcoming the learning disabled in practice
Authors: Gibson Tim
Published: May 2014

Tim Gibson considers the barriers to accessing general practice for people with learning disabilities and what is needed to improve primary health care for this vulnerable group of people
Letter
Authors: Curnow Sue
Published: May 2014

Sue Curnow highlights the benefits to nurses and other health professionals of becoming a member of Diabetes UK's lay and professional advisory councils.
Human papillomavirus
Authors: Pownall Mark
Published: May 2014

Mark Pownall looks at the possible benefits of a vaccine that is being developed to help prevent cervical cancer
How to talk with people from other backgrounds
Authors: Panesar Sukhmeet Singh , Sheikh Aziz
Published: May 2014

Sukhmeet Singh Panesar and Aziz Sheikh discuss some ways to improve understanding of the health-care needs of people from minority ethnic backgrounds.
Thinking about food for the mind
Authors: Ryrie Iain
Published: May 2014

Iain Ryrie highlights the findings of a review of the evidence for the role of diet in mental ill-health.
Counterfeit drug risk
Authors: Martin Jeannett
Published: May 2014

From April, nurses who have undertaken the extended prescribing course will be able to prescribe from the full British National Formulary (BNF) for any condition within their competence. Clinical practice will not change immediately because the majority of nurses are not yet trained prescribers.
Are oily fish healthy?
Authors: Halcox Julian
Published: May 2014

Omega-3 fatty acids possess a wide range of properties that suggest a potential benefit against the development of cardiovascular disease, including antiarrhythmic, antithrombotic, lipid-lowering and anti-inflammatory actions. Despite strong epidemiologic evidence supporting a better cardiovascular prognosis from a diet rich in omega-3s, clinical trial evidence is not entirely consistent. Hooper et al (2006) have attempted to resolve some of these issues by conducting a systematic review of the literature examining the effect of omega-3 supplementation/intake on death, cardiovascular events and cancer in appropriately conducted randomized clinical trials and prospective cohort studies. They concluded that, while the cohort studies showed a reduction in mortality in those with higher omega-3 intake, there was no consistent effect on cardiovascular events, nor a significant effect on cancer or stroke, although too few of these events occurred to rule out important effects.
Nebulizers: Seeing through the mist
Authors: Booker Rachel
Published: May 2014

Rachel Booker explains the use of nebulizers in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Investing in pulmonary rehabilitation for all
Authors: Henderson Yvonne
Published: May 2014

Yvonne Henderson argues that pulmonary rehabilitation can benefit people with all severities of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Losing their heads
Authors: Benison Liam
Published: May 2014

It was shocking to see images of nurses jeering the Secretary of State for Health, Patricia Hewitt, at the RCN Congress in Bournemouth on Wednesday. But nurses' anger over redundancies (at last count estimated at 7000) and the Secretary of State's handling of what to do about the mounting debt of NHS trusts is understandable.
Karen Newell: Giving hope and information
Authors: Karen Newell
Published: May 2014

Karen Newell works on Asthma UK's Adviceline for patients and professionals. She spoke to Liam Benison about her work.
Meeting report: HCAs cut waiting times to see a nurse
Authors: Joels Lynn , Benison Liam
Published: May 2014

Lynn Joels and Liam Benison report on a conference held to showcase a toolkit to help with the introduction of health care asssitants into general practice
Cognitive behavioural therapy for COPD
Authors: Heslop Karen
Published: May 2014

Karen Heslop explains the key features of cognitive behavioural therapy which she argues can help patients manage their symptoms more effectively
Rosemary Cook: Influencing change
Authors: Cook Rosemary
Published: May 2014

Rosemary Cook is skilled at influencing change for the benefit of her clients, whether patients or nurses. She spoke to Liam Benison
Human papillomavirus
Authors: Cadman Louise
Published: May 2014

Louise Cadman addresses some of the questions women frequently ask about the implications of a diagnosis of human papillomavirus (HPV)
Detecting cold sores and genital herpes
Authors: Winter George
Published: May 2014

George Winter explains the microbiology of herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2
Effective commissioning for diabetes services
Authors: Greenley Anne
Published: May 2014

Government reforms present a variety of challenges for diabetes services, which need to change substantially if they are to cope with an ever increasing demand. Anne Greenley explains
Breaking the mould: Inspiration for practice nurses
Authors: Hill Rosalind
Published: May 2014

The WiPP study day supported the role of nurses in general practice and the needs of staff in light of social changes. Liam Benison and Rosalind Hill report
Female infertility: Pathophysiology
Authors: Cooper Maggie
Published: May 2014

There are a variety of reasons for infertility in women—some more common than others, as Maggie Cooper explains in the fi rst article in a three-part series
An update on managing hypertension
Authors: McCallum Carole
Published: May 2014

National guidance for the management of hypertension no longer recommends beta-blockers for first-line use. Carole McCallum explains why
Improving education and peer support
Authors: Bell Fiona
Published: May 2014

Fiona Bell reviews Scottish strategies for improving training and support for practice nurses. Can a learning and network coordinator help?
Effective HIV testing in general practice
Authors: Peate Ian
Published: May 2014

Ian Peate investigates the requirements of effective HIV testing and considers the communication skills needed for supportive pre- and post-test discussions with patients
Rotavirus diarrhoea
Authors: Diggle Linda , Ford Karen
Published: May 2014

Rotavirus diarrhoea is an illness that commonly affects young children. Linda Diggle and Karen Ford examine the preventive and curative measures that exist, including a new vaccine
Mimickers of malignant melanoma
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

Discussion in the media and greater public understanding of malignant melanoma has created a steady stream of patients coming to the surgery worried about a mole that may have appeared or recently changed. Anxieties are increased if the mole is pigmented. Faced with such a patient the practice nurse needs to decide whether or not any action is required.
Angela Cooper: On the roller coaster
Authors: Cooper Angela
Published: May 2014

Angela Cooper was recently awarded the title of Queen's Nurse. She told Liam Benison about the ups and downs of her successful career
Improve maternal and child health, conference told
Authors: Barber Gillian
Published: May 2014

Gillian Barber considers the pledges on improving maternal and child health made at a recent conference and the implications for practice nurses
Choosing appropriate dressings for leg ulcers
Authors: Smithdale Rachael
Published: May 2014

Rachael Smithdale discusses an evidence-based approach to the management of leg ulcers
Society's favourite drug
Authors: Martin Jeannett
Published: May 2014

Have you ever smoked cigarettes? I have. I started smoking in my first year as a student nurse. At that time it was almost considered to be a social skill. To start with I thought that tobacco tasted foul; it took me quite a while to get used to it. Once I had, the physical dependency on tobacco was inescapable. The excuses I made to make it ‘OK’ to carry on smoking were so pathetic that, looking back, I know that it could only have been my addiction that made them plausible to me. I was not choosing to continue to smoke—I had to.
Information all in one
Authors: Ashby Gary
Published: May 2014

The internet has transformed the way that industries such as music and travel operate. The NHS has also been developing a strong web presence as people are increasingly relying on the internet to research health issues.
Giving dietary advice
Authors: Thomas Paul
Published: May 2014

Dietary management is the cornerstone of quality of life for people with type 2 diabetes. Paul Thomas discusses the key issues, and follows Jane's experience
Nonaccidental injury in children
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

Sally was only 2 years old when she was brought to the surgery by her mother. Her hand was wrapped in bandages. Sally was distressed as we removed the dressings and revealed this blistering, peeling hand (Figure 1). Clearly the damage was the result of a scald or burn. The question was how on earth did this happen?
What will a national stroke strategy mean?
Authors: Williams Jane
Published: May 2014

Jane Williams demystifies the implications of the new national strategy for stroke and looks at the opportunities for nurses in general practice to make a difference topatients' care
Air travel and health
Authors: Grieve Sandra
Published: May 2014

Sandra Grieve examines the implications of the revised report on air travel and health published by the House of Lords in December,
Happy nurses: How life coaching can help
Authors: Westwood Claire
Published: May 2014

Neurolinguistic programming may provide a practical way of balancing your work and life commitments and allow you to rediscover yourself. Claire Westwood explains
Alternative approaches to the menopause
Authors: Brockie Jan
Published: May 2014

The menopause can prove a distressing time for many women, more so when faced with the range of treatments. Jan Brockie examines the available alternatives
Treating dog bites
Authors: Carr Nancye
Published: May 2014

Is there any evidence for the role of prophylactic antibiotics in dog bites?
Facial swelling
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

Since the introduction of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine in 1988, the incidence of mumps in young children has dropped dramatically. Notific-ation of the disease in the UK became obligatory in the same year, and since then the num-bers numbers reported have remained at only about 2000 a year. Between the years 2003–5 numbers increased to about 8000, mainly in young people over the age of 15 years, probably because this age group were too old to receive MMR when it was first introduced. As a result, this age group missed immunization, or received one dose only, and so lacked adequate protection from mumps (Department of Health (DH), 2005). Mumps is still, therefore, only too likely to appear in surgeries making it important to be able to recognize the condition and be aware of other diagnoses that might mimic it (Table 1).
A pilot foundation programme for GPNs
Authors: Tinson Sandy
Published: May 2014

Sandy Tinson explains the aims of a pilot programme designed to provide basic training to nurses before entering general practice
Trust, assurance and safety
Authors: Martin Jeannett
Published: May 2014

Jeannett Martin examines the proposals for a new regulatory regime for health professionals in the 21st century
New hosts to carry WiPP's work into the future
Authors: Clarke Susi
Published: May 2014

As the Working in Partnership Programme (WiPP) draws to a close, Susi Clarke celebrates its successes and explains how its work will be taken forward in the future
Prescribing the contraceptive pill
Authors: Kipps Sarah
Published: May 2014

Samara is a 28-year-old woman taking the pill and experiencing some breakthrough bleeding. Sarah Kipps explains how to advise her
A new combination inhaler for asthma
Authors: McArthur Ruth
Published: May 2014

Ruth McArthur reviews the potential benefits of a combination corticosteroid–beta2-agonist inhaler for the management of asthma
Ensuring treatment for polycystic ovaries
Authors: Raisbeck Elspeth
Published: May 2014

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a complex condition that affects many women. Elspeth Raisbeck looks at symptoms and treatment options available
How to recognize and assess neuropathic pain
Authors: Johnson Lucy , Bibby Paul
Published: May 2014

The prevalence of neuropathic pain is rising, in particular, because of an increase in the incidence of diabetes and shingles. Practice nurses have an important role to play in recognizing the signs and supporting patients
Human rights need more attention in the NHS
Authors: Richenda Power
Published: May 2014

Initiatives to improve access to health care around the world for disadvantaged groups were discussed at a conference in Warwick recently. Richenda Power reports
Assessing Depo-Provera as a choice for women
Authors: Davie Lynda
Published: May 2014

Depot medroxy-progesterone acetate (Depo-Provera) is a popular method of long acting reversible contraception. Lynda Davie examines its advantages and disadvantages
Finding ways to support voluntary carers
Authors: Cooper Anne , Shaw Pippa
Published: May 2014

Voluntary carers are often isolated and fi nd it diffi cult to access general practice. Anne Cooper and Pippa Shaw explain what their practice has done to offer support
Letter
Authors: Drake Linda
Published: May 2014

Linda Drake asks what polyclinics may mean for practice nurses and the future of patient care in general practice.
Routine immunization by
Authors: Moreton Judith
Published: May 2014

Judith Moreton explains why it is important to understand the legal basis for administering immunizations via patient group directions (PGDs) or patient specific directions (PSDs)
An evaluation of patient participation groups for people
Authors: Pick Alison
Published: May 2014

The aim of this study was to evaluate the work of four diabetes patient participation groups in Southwark Primary Care Trust to inform the group leaders in their efforts to develop and improve the groups' operation and support of patients.

Method: A questionnaire was distributed to 661 patients on the local PPGs' mailing list and 234 were returned, a response rate of 38%. Separate ‘illuminating’ interviews were conducted with three participants who attended less regularly.

Results: Key findings were that: (1) the diabetes PPGs helped provide people with more knowledge, information and skills to manage their diabetes with greater confidence; (2) about 45% of patients (n=106) said that the groups had helped them manage medication better; (3) 57% (n=134) reported that the groups had helped them change their diet and 65% (n=152) of patients said that the groups had helped them to learn to eat more healthily.

Conclusions: It is recommended that access to meetings is improved for patients with time and mobility constraints, and that PPG funding is made more secure.
New to child vaccines
Authors: Smith Tricia
Published: May 2014

Tricia Smith reviews some of the fundamental resources that practice nurses—particularly those new to practice—will find invaluable in preparing to undertake childhood immunization
Using an out-of-date EpiPen in an emergency
Authors: Edwards Marilyn
Published: May 2014

A young man has an anaphylactic reaction at a wedding reception but his EpiPen is out of date. Mandy Edwards describes this hypothetical scenario and asks readers to reflect and consider how they would manage such a situation
Cardiac rehabilitation: Benefits and low uptake
Authors: Stead Carolyn E
Published: May 2014

Carolyn E Stead considers how, despite the proven benefits of cardiac rehabilitation for people with coronary heart disease, inadequate resources and organization, and low uptake severely limit its effectiveness
Finding reliable websites
Authors: CK Hall Sheila
Published: May 2014

Where can you go to find credible travel health information online? Sheila Hall reviews some travel health websites for health professionals and the general public
Erectile dysfunction as a diagnostic indicator
Authors: Jackson Graham
Published: May 2014

Graham Jackson reviews the association between erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular disease and explains why impotence may be an early sign of arterial disease
The Quality and Outcomes Framework 2009/2010
Authors: Champion Gillian
Published: May 2014

Gillian Champion outlines the changes to the new QOF which came into effect on 1 April and discusses their implications for practice nurses' clinical work
The use of incretin agents
Authors: Aye Myint Myint , Jennings Paul
Published: May 2014

The treatment of type 2 diabetes often requires intensification. Myint Myint Aye and Paul Jennings discuss the role of incretin agents in improving glycaemic control in people with diabetes
Breast cancer overview: Diagnosis and staging
Authors: Foy Sharon , Blowers Elaine
Published: May 2014

Sharon Foy and Elaine Blowers discuss the importance of recognizing the signs and symptoms of early and secondary breast cancer
Plymouth nurses encompassing change
Authors: Fearon Lynn
Published: May 2014

Lynn Fearon is co-chair of the organizing committee behind the RCN Practice Nurse Conference and Exhibition 2009. She spoke to Alice Hall
Managing CVD risks
Authors: Nuttall Michaela
Published: May 2014

Assessing a person's risk of developing cardiovascular disease is not new; many practices have been doing this opportunistically since the NSF for CHD was published in 2000. In 2008 the Department of Health (DH) announced an NHS health check for all adults aged 40 to 74 years. The programme started in April 2009, to be phased in over 5 years in England.
Encompassing workforce change in Plymouth
Authors: Hall Alice , Benison Liam , Martin Jeannett
Published: May 2014

Population explosion, developments in practice nurse education and cervical screening were among the topics discussed at the 2009 RCN Practice Nurse Conference in Plymouth
Care for chronic oedema and lymphoedema
Authors: Muldoon Jeanette
Published: May 2014

Early, uncomplicated lymphoedema can be treated in general practice by non-specialists trained in bandaging techniques. Jeanette Muldoon explains best practice
Monitoring infants' and children's growth
Authors: More Judy
Published: May 2014

Judy More highlights new growth charts for assessing infants' and children's growth and considers the practice nurse's role
Deep vein thrombosis
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

This 65-year-old woman presented with complaints of pain and swelling in her left calf for 3 days. On examination the leg felt warm and there was tenderness in the calf, which measured 5 cm more in diameter than the right. Also, forced dorsiflexion of the left foot, with the knee flexed, reproduced pain in the calf (Homan's sign). Her general health was otherwise good but she mentioned that she had just flown from Australia a few days before.
Alopecia, part 2: Scarring forms
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

Whatever the cause, alopecia tends to be a concern for many people. In a previous article (Watkins, 2009) the possible causes of ‘non-scarring’ alopecia have been discussed. Many patients with this problem have some hope for recovery of a full head of hair, either spontaneously or with the help of some form of treatment. However, in cases of alopecia in which there is destruction of the hair follicles and the formation of scar tissue, permanent hair loss ensues. In some cases, destruction of the hair follicle may be preceded by inflammation in and around the follicles, known as primary cicatricial alopecia.
Liz Williams: Skin care sleuth
Authors: Williams Liz
Published: May 2014

Liz Williams enjoys the challenge of taking the lead in dermatology in her practice. She spoke to Liam Benison
Appreciating the local role of practice nurses
Authors: White Fiona
Published: May 2014

The value of practice nurses in delivering immunizations, screening services and managing chronic disease was recognized at a recent conference at NHS Sutton and Merton
Pruritis, part 2: Urticaria
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

Itching is a common symptom of urticaria and angioedema. This group of problems may be associated with a number of different factors, some of which may be allergy. Occasionally, the allergic and physical urticarias may lead to more serious problems of anaphylaxis and a potential threat to life.
Seize the opportunity
Authors: Howie Kate , Nutbrown Sue
Published: May 2014

The challenges of the White Paper, Liberating the NHS, will require engagement by all primary care clinicians. Practice nurse leaders have responded to the consultation via the RCN Practice Nurses Association (PNA) and directly to the Department of Health (DH).
Improving men's access to sexual health services
Authors: Shone Denise
Published: May 2014

Denise Shone considers the personal, social and financial consequences of sexual ill health in young men and makes some evidence−based recommendations to improve service provision
Isabella Stevens (1939-2010)
Authors: Grieve Sandra
Published: May 2014

Isabella Stevens had a lust for life and a passion for nursing and travel health. Sandra Grieve remembers her
Ten steps to recording a standard 12-lead ECG
Authors: Crawford Jacqui , Doherty Linda
Published: May 2014

Jacqui Crawford and Linda Doherty outline ten steps to correctly recording a 12-lead electrocardiograph (ECG). Precise, standard electrode positions prevent misinterpretation and subsequent mismanagement
Health checks: Could we be left with a hangover?
Authors: Holmes Mark , Waterall Jamie
Published: May 2014

Alcohol misuse costs £2.7 billion a year to the NHS. Mark Holmes and Jamie Waterall ask whether the NHS Health Check programme has missed a chance to help reduce the health risks of alcohol misuse
Looking ahead
Authors: Benison Liam
Published: May 2014

I have been working with Jeannett Martin on a new 3-year strategy to guide the journal's future direction. The last review was held in 2006 and it is surprising how much has changed in that time.
Clinical QA
Authors: Carrier Judith
Published: May 2014

Thrombotic events with NSAIDS Proton pump inhibitor in pregnancy
A primary care-led NHS
Authors: Cross Sue
Published: May 2014

Sue Cross encourages practice nurses not to fear pushing for roles of greater responsibility and influence that can make a real difference to patient care
Practice nurse advocates: Introducing the PNA committee
Authors: Howie Kate , Hall Sonia
Published: May 2014

Kate Howie and Sonia Hall introduce the members of the Practice Nurses Association committee who give their time voluntarily to promoting the interests of practice nurses in forums around the UK
Chaperones: practice policy and training
Authors: Lambert Jane
Published: May 2014

Jane Lambert outlines why surgeries should have a chaperone policy in place, and advocates chaperone training for receptionists
Assessment and diagnosis
Authors: Cooper Maggie
Published: May 2014

Thrush is a common infection, usually caused by Candida. In the first article in a two-part series, Maggie Cooper explains the importance of a careful history and when laboratory tests are needed
Benefits of a county training service for practice staff
Authors: Timmins Sue
Published: May 2014

A central training service for general practice staff across three primary care trusts in Kent offers cost-effectiveness and consistency in education standards, according to Sue Timmins
Paul Vaughan:Calling for leaders
Authors: Paul Vaughan
Published: May 2014

Paul Vaughan argues that practice nurses have a fantastic opportunity to influence the future shape of patient care. He spoke to Liam Benison
Cultural influences on health care in Ghana
Authors: Templeman Victoria
Published: May 2014

Victoria Templeman reflects on an elective placement in Ghana, from providing health care at Fasin Clinic to teaching sex education to young people in the village
Indemnity scheme change concerns practice nurses
Authors: Cox Chris
Published: May 2014

The Royal College of Nursing reassures nurses in general practice that a change to the indemnity scheme will not affect their ability to practise nor require them to take out any additional cover
Measles: time to address a preventable problem
Authors: Bedford Helen
Published: May 2014

Helen Bedford considers the reasons for a rise in the incidence of measles this year and discusses what practice nurses can do to help stamp out a disease that can have serious consequences for public health
Karen Heslop: Merge care pathways
Authors: Heslop Karen
Published: May 2014

Karen Heslop has been a qualified nurse for over 20 years. She specializes in respiratory medicine.
Pension reform: a recipe for industrial action?
Authors: Parr Chris , Carter Peter
Published: May 2014

Discussions continue between nursing unions and the government over changes proposed to pensions by the Hutton review. What is the next step?
Charity cuts could create pressure on the NHS
Authors: Singer Clifford
Published: May 2014

Charities are facing a net budget cut of about £110 million this year, according to research by False Economy, with implications for health-care services
The cervical screening programme: HPV triage
Authors: Cadman Louise
Published: May 2014

Louise Cadman discusses the HPV triage protocol and how management is guided by HPV test results.
Incretin-based therapies for type 2 diabetes
Authors: Capaldi Brenda
Published: May 2014

There are many patients with type 2 diabetes in the UK, and controlling blood glucose levels in these patients can be challenging. Brenda Capaldi discusses the use of incretin-based therapies for people with type 2 diabetes
Reducing health disparity in people with disabilities
Authors: Wolverson Michael
Published: May 2014

There are startling disparities in the health status of people with learning disabilities compared to the general population. Michael Wolverson explores the factors that have influenced this
Emotions and breathing patterns in asthma
Authors: Upton Jane
Published: May 2014

Jane Upton outlines the relationship between breathing patterns, emotions and asthma, and the scientific evidence supporting breathing training for patients with asthma
An unusual case of bilateral cellulitis
Authors: Perry Margaret
Published: May 2014

Margaret Perry discusses the diagnosis and treatment of bilateral cellulitis and patient education to prevent recurrence of the infection
Managing and preventing obesity in infants
Authors: Stewart Laura
Published: May 2014

Laura Stewart emphasizes the importance of managing childhood obesity, the most common childhood nutritional disorder in the world
Care considerations for stoma complications
Authors: Williams Julia
Published: May 2014

Julia Williams identifies the need for education and support to help prevent stoma complications
Managing and preventing obesity in teenagers
Authors: Stewart Laura , Gahagan Alison
Published: May 2014

Laura Stewart and Alison Gahagan discuss the possible causes of obesity in teenagers and how they can be overcome
Hepatitis C part 1: Detection and assessment
Authors: Poll Ray
Published: May 2014

In the first of a two-part series, Ray Poll discusses the detection and assessment of hepatitis C, a global public health problem
Staying smokefree with behavioural support
Authors: Attar-Zadeh Darush
Published: May 2014

Darush Attar-Zadeh discusses the challenges faced by people who are stopping smoking and highlights the importance of behavioural support in enabling them to achieve this
History taking for women's contraception
Authors: Kipps Sarah
Published: May 2014

No contraceptive method is 100% effective. However, Sarah Kipps explains how through accurate and thorough history taking, practice nurses can ensure the safe prescribing of contraception
Marie Therese Massey: Value of education
Authors: Therese Massey Marie
Published: May 2014

With experience in practice nursing and lecturing, Marie Therese Massey highlights the importance of educational development for practice nurses
Type 1 diabetes: pancreas and islet transplantation
Authors: Wardle Julie , Phillips Anne
Published: May 2014

Pancreas and islet transplantation is a suitable treatment option for a select group of patients with type 1 diabetes. Julie Wardle discusses the indications, risks and benefits of these procedures
Report highlights need to rebalance CPD funding
Authors: Young Lynn
Published: May 2014

Health Education England is planning how to spend its education and CPD budget, and a King's Fund report raises some key questions. What are the issues for practice nursing?
Weaning: developing an infant's feeding skills
Authors: More Judy
Published: May 2014

Judy More gives an overview of the three weaning stages, looking at types of food to offer. She also explores the concept of weaning as a learning process for infants
Spirometry 3: interpreting the test
Authors: Loveridge Chris
Published: May 2014

In the third and final article of this series on spirometry, Chris Loveridge reviews two case studies using the top 10 tips for reporting spirometry results, and discusses how to evaluate the clinical history
What is practice nursing's future?
Authors: Briggs Margaret
Published: May 2014

With the employment of practice nurses remaining static over the past 6 years, an NHS consultation paper on improving general practice invites suggestions on what could be done to improve the situation
PGDs: new NICE good practice guidance
Authors: Picton Louise , Hulme Johanna
Published: May 2014

NICE published good practice guidance on PGDs in August. Louise Picton and Johanna Hulme provide an overview of the guidance, including the process of developing and authorizing PGDs
Remember, remember, the fifth of November
Authors: Jackson Caroline , Miller Collette
Published: May 2014

Thinking of taking your child to a local firework display? There’s lots to learn as well as see and hear!
How noisy is your nursery or home?
Authors: Henry Laura
Published: May 2014

Is the atmosphere in your setting one of peace and calm or do you struggle to make yourself heard above the din of voices and clatter of equipment? Laura Henry looks at the effects of noise on you and your children
Every Child Matters: Organisation
Authors: Wilcock Liz
Published: May 2014

The 14 National Standards are now grouped under five outcome headings. ‘Organisation’ covers Standards 1 (Suitable person), 2 (Organisation) and 14 (Documentation). Liz Wilcock looks at what you need to know and what inspectors will want to see
A guide to book-keeping
Authors: Lea Desirie
Published: May 2014

You’re a childcarer not an accountant, so keeping financial records is probably not what you do best. However, if you are going to run a successful day nursery or childminding business a good financial record-keeping system is essential. Desirie Lea sets out the basics
The value of story time
Authors: Peasgood Sue , Elkin Judith , Denham Debbie
Published: May 2014

Story time is a regular feature in the daily routine of most nurseries and pre-schools but its importance is often undervalued. One of the best ways to introduce children to words and language at a very early age is through a wide variety of stories and rhymes. By hearing rhymes from their first awareness, children are gradually introduced to words, phrases and communication. Children need a wealth of language, of stories and experience before they are ready to learn to read or communicate fully.
Inspection of a nursery school - What to expect
Authors: O'Callaghan Kay
Published: May 2014

The day began with close observation of a structured session. The inspector moved around the room to all the activities, listening to and questioning groups and individual children about what they were doing.
Food safety
Authors: Chapleo Rob
Published: May 2014

Young children are vulnerable to food poisoning and other infectious intestinal diseases, but many cases can be prevented by employing simple hygienic practices.
Personal and social development
Authors: Wilkinson Gay
Published: May 2014

Beginning any new experience arouses a mixture of feelings - excitement, curiosity, anxiety - in adults as well as children. Adults can draw on other similar experiences to help them cope with these feelings but young children do not have such a reservoir to tap into.
Language and literacy
Authors: Wilkinson Gay
Published: May 2014

One of the most important ways in which children learn about themselves, others and the world about them is through seeing, hearing and using language - talking, listening, reading and writing - and of these talking and listening are the aspects which they master first and which will form the foundation for later reading and writing.
Improving balancing skills
Authors: Boylin Carol , Henderson Linda
Published: May 2014

All improvements in physical skills depend upon practice and young children need the opportunity to repeat the movements they know and the ones they are learning in order to improve their skills and control.
Taking turns and sharing
Authors: Boylin Carol , Henderson Linda
Published: May 2014

Taking turns and sharing is a vital part of personal and social education and children who do not master this advanced skill may find life increasingly difficult as they progress through school.
Drawing what you see
Authors: Gilbert Janet
Published: May 2014

We all love our child's first attempts at painting or drawing - the blob with green and orange hair labelled ‘mummy’, the trees with purple leaves or the rainbow coloured houses. These imaginative interpretations of the world form an important stage in children's development. However, children also need to learn to see things as they really are and to look at things in their environment carefully.
A-Z of child health
Authors: Shabde Neela
Published: May 2014

Impetigo is a common, highly infectious, skin condition caused by a bacterial organism known as staphylococcus. The organism is normally carried in the nose and on the skin. It most commonly affects the nose area around the mouth though it may affect any other part of the body in school-age children. It is also known to affect babies especially the nappy area. The conditions such as eczema, scabies or where the skin is broken may pre-dispose to impetigo as the organism can enter and infect the skin.
Using television and radio
Authors: Towers Jenny
Published: May 2014

A wealth of television and radio resources are available from BBC Education and Channel 4 Schools to support children's learning in pre-school settings. Programmes for this age range are made to help you meet the requirements of the Desirable Outcomes for Children's Learning.
What is baseline assessment?
Authors: Bartlett David
Published: May 2014

Since September 1998, all children starting primary school in England are being assessed using an accredited baseline assessment scheme. What are the purposes of baseline assessment and what are the implications for practice in reception classes and pre-school provision?
Stop, look, listen
Authors: Edgington Margaret
Published: May 2014

Children learn through doing - using all their senses. To understand the area where they live they need to walk around it with an interested adult so they can experience and talk about its features. By helping your child to focus on and to compare the different features of your area, you will be laying the foundations for science and geography as well as promoting a healthy life-style.
Making time for meaningful talk
Authors: Hedley Sue
Published: May 2014

It is our aim and responsibility to help children become confident communicators in their world. We present a powerful model of language use to children, yet often our talk is perceived by them to be mainly about management - we tell, command or judge when we speak to children and often give them too little time to respond to our questions. To encourage children to use talk as a means of learning,we need to be good listeners. We need to give children our full attention when listening, indicating that what children say has value.
Organising water play
Authors: Hislop Vicky
Published: May 2014

Just putting out a water tray and waiting for it all to happen without you will not work! You must have a plan for the activity and be prepared to make the most of the questions you will be asked as you would with many table top activities. Plan ahead and decide what skills or information you are aiming to share with the children at each session and aim to deliver it. Linking in with previous discussions or ongoing themes makes sense.
Including the child with cerebral palsy
Authors: Brewis Lindsay
Published: May 2014

From the moment of birth, or soon after, children with cerebral palsy (cp) have very different learning experiences than their able bodied peers.
The language of lullabies
Authors: Hughes Sian
Published: May 2014

Lullabies, like counting rhymes and skipping songs, seem to exist in every culture. Everywhere in the world children are rocked and sung to sleep. It is probably the first poetry we ever hear. When a child arrives at playgroup or nursery school they are probably already familiar with a number of these songs. Hand them a toy and ask them to help send it off to sleep, and see how many of them start singing.
Organising circle time
Authors: Stocks Sara
Published: May 2014

Circle time should be a relaxed session where everyone can join in and you can get to know the children in your care a little better. Your aim is to allow them the opportunity to get used to speaking out in a group and also to having their comments listened to with respect. You may use circle time as an opportunity to introduce new ideas or to go over old issues - either way it should be a reassuring time of calm and quiet.
Trends in teaching numeracy
Authors: Fisher Sue
Published: May 2014

The national numeracy strategy is based on research into effective methods of teaching mathematics and aims to provide a structured approach to the teaching of number, with emphasis being placed on the development of mental skills and strategies and interactive, whole-class teaching.
Special days
Authors: Stocks Sara
Published: May 2014

Self-esteem comes from a huge range of experiences, both good and bad and predominantly family based. Healthy selfesteem starts with the way a new-born baby is handled and responded to and carries on through toddler tantrums, early educational experiences and throughout the growingup years. No nursery or pre-school activity is ever going to change a life singlehandedly, of course, but you can begin by raising awareness of the importance of selfesteem for your group and their families.
Take your partners!
Authors: Blanchard Chrys
Published: May 2014

Most children today are familiar with dancing along ‘disco style’ at social events, but have they ever been to a party or family occasion and seen people dancing together and twirling around the room holding onto each other?
Exploring two-dimensional shapes
Authors: Taylor Rebecca
Published: May 2014

Children are surrounded by shapes and it is often difficult to know whether we should start by teaching three-dimensional shapes because we live in a three-dimensional world or start with the two-dimensional shape names.
‘Wings, wands and wishes’: a sensory story
Authors: Cannon Emily , Cameron Kathini
Published: May 2014

Explain to the children that you are all going on an adventure to the magical land of Tiz Woz.
Make a pyramid
Authors: Taylor Rebecca
Published: May 2014

Children will love making this pyramid. They can colour it in, then cut it out and glue it together.
Understanding stories
Authors: Graham Jo
Published: May 2014

Young children's stories will begin very simply and may well be just a slightly altered version of a story they have heard. This is a good start, so encourage your child by listening to their stories as well as telling them your own.
The value of spatial awareness
Authors: Arnold Cath
Published: May 2014

About two years ago, at Pen Green Nursery, we secured funding from the DfEE to build a science discovery area which would offer opportunities for children to play with sand, water, pulleys and conveyor belts.
Make a picture fan
Authors: Davison Shirley
Published: May 2014

Photocopy this sheet, stick it to card and cut out the picture cards. Hold them together with a brass fastener or piece of string so that children can hold them easily and fan them out
Number recognition games
Authors: Fisher Sue
Published: May 2014

Children need to be provided with a range of enjoyable opportunities for counting, recognising numbers and understanding their position. Remember that competence is not measured by a child's ability to write numbers as this often lags behind their mental calculation skills.
Exploring and investigating materials
Authors: Wilson Gay
Published: May 2014

Young children explore and work with materials all the time, in nearly everything they do. They find out that some things bend and some stretch, that different materials are hard, shiny, rough or smooth. Your job is to help children focus on the properties of the materials they are working or playing with and to develop their thinking and language by helping them to verbalise their ideas.