It took Jill a while to adjust to Practice Nursing. Jill missed her acute skills at first, but gradually she began to appreciate the new skill set found in General Practice, and came to understand the role of the PN.

Now, looking back, Jill feels that the hospital system is more of a sickness model and that primary care and preventative health are rewarding, and are growing in value and recognition in the health care system.

Jill commenced Practice Nursing in 2003, at what was then known as Daylesford General Practice. The two Daylesford practices have since merged as Springs Medical Centre, and will soon move to their new premises.

Jill was the first PN employed at the practice, and it was a learning experience for all. Jill says that “working as a PN made me appreciate what working in a team means”.

Jill became a PN Pap test provider about 4 years ago, encouraged by the GPs who believed it would help free up their time if the practice provided this service. Jill says the GPs were very supportive.

Jill enjoys the autonomy that being a Pap test provider brings, along with the rapport she develops with the patients. She feels that she has understanding of the various life stages of the women she sees and the issues which accompany these stages. Jill says that the bottom line is PNs need the support of the GPs in the practice to make PN Pap test providing work.

Some facts

• Rates for cervical screening in Ballarat & District Division of General Practice are poor- 56.8%
• The biggest risk factor in cervical cancer is not being screened every 2 years
• “Nurses play a key role in providing cervical screening, particularly in rural Victoria and with older unscreened or under screened women.” PapScreen Final Report 2000-2005 P:17
• Nurse endocervical component rates are higher than for other providers

Scholarships

Australian Practice Nurse Association (APNA) scholarships are available from the end of August.

Courses

• Clinical Sexual and Reproductive Health for Nurses (credentialling and HIV & Hep C pre and post test counselling accreditation), 18/19 March 2010 at Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, cost $1100.
• The Pap Test and Introduction to Sexual Health, 19-22 Oct at Family Planning Victoria, cost $1210.
• Taking Pap tests: Theory and Practice Mar/Jun 2010 at Melbourne University Dept of General Practice, cost $1680, applications close end of Nov 2009.

For more information contact me at jom@bddgp.org.au.

Tags: practice nursing