This innovative course will enable the development of knowledge, deeper learning and understanding of the General Practice Nurse role for nurses new to primary care and who wish to further enhance their clinical practice and leadership in their role.

This fully funded unit is an excellent opportunity for any nurse, recently employed in General Practice and working within the Wessex region to develop skills in the management of clients as a General Practice Nurse. Taught by Clinical Experts the course also includes an exploration of the context of Practice Nursing and of Primary Care, Clinical Governance, QoF and the role of Clinical Commissioning groups.

You will learn through attendance at interactive, skills-based presentations and you’ll also build a portfolio of evidence from your practice. You’ll be supported throughout your study by lecturers, your peers and a mentor. During the unit you will develop the skills you need to function competently as a practice nurse including; Immunisation; Cervical cytology; Ear care; Wound management; ECG; Venepuncture; ECG.; Diagnostics / health screening; Venepuncture; Ear care; Immunisation / anaphylaxis; Cervical cytology; Sexual health / men & women’s health; Wound management/ Infection control; Mental health / vulnerable clients / safeguarding; Long-term conditions.

The course will be for a duration of 7 months and you will study two consecutive days every fortnight.

Newly qualified nurses applying for this unit may be entitled to access the General Practice Nursing Fellowship and work towards a PG Cert Primary Care. Having completed this unit, you will be offered a further 20 credit unit - choosing from three options:

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

This course requires 100% attendance.

Normally students may enter Level 7 (Master's level) study if they have been awarded:

• Undergraduate degree (honours or non-honours)
• An equivalent qualification (the learning outcome of which are demonstrably appropriate in terms of knowledge, understanding and skills) equivalent to 120 credits at Level 6.

If you do not meet this criteria you are still able to apply for this unit but we may ask you to complete a study skills handbook to familiarise yourself with academic writing at masters level or pre-admission work. This will be sent to you when we have received your application form.

This unit is also available at Level 6 (degree level).

Fees and funding:

This course cannot be self-funded - all funding is provided by Health Education England. You must contact Health Education England Wessex, South East (Philippa.Stupple@hee.nhs.uk) or Dorset Primary Care Training Hub (traininghub@ourdorset.nhs.uk) before applying for this intake.

The assessment will comprise two parts (both of which must be passed):

• Part A -  an essay (50%) 2,500 words
• Part B - a a Practice Portfolio (50%) equivalent to 4,000 words 

Having completed this unit the student is expected to:

1. Debate the evolution and philosophy of the Practice Nurse role 
2. Demonstrate competence across a range of negotiated, nationally recognised Practice Nurse competencies using a multi-method approach 
3. Systematically review the evidence base underpinning one of these Practice Nurse competencies
4. Critically appraise the strategies used to develop their professional competence and justify how they now fulfil the role of General Practice Nurse