Barriers Resources

This article discusses key concepts that general practice nurses (GPNs) can consider when supporting men with longterm conditions (LTCs) in primary care. It looks at relevant statistics alongside common LTCs GPNs may see in primary care, and offers practice points to help GPNs feel more confident in addressing men’s health in those with LTCs. It also explores barriers that may prevent men from accessing healthcare services. By considering these points in primary care, GPNs can better advocate for male patients and improve outcomes.

Having the ability to reflect on professional practice is an essential skill of a registered nurse practising in the UK, and in England, nursing associate, and is a key tenet of the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) revalidation. While demonstrating the importance of reflection, this paper encourages nurses to think beyond the defined constraints of reflection and move towards the more dynamic approach of critical reflection and concludes by introducing the concept of [nursing] praxis — a process which requires nurses to demonstrate a greater understanding of the complex nature of the political, social, economic and environmental constraints under which we live and work and act in a way to reduce their impact.

The amount of migration and people seeking asylum in the UK is increasing due to people leaving their country as a result of fear of persecution. There is a lack of knowledge regarding migrants’ rights to healthcare and barriers which exist trying to access this, including in the primary care setting. This literature review explored the experience of accessing services in the primary care setting from the viewpoint of asylum seekers and refuges (ASRs) and thematic analysis was conducted. The three themes identified were barriers to accessing primary care for ASRs, increased and inappropriate use of emergency services, and risks to public health. As it is a human right to seek asylum from persecution and receive appropriate healthcare in the host country, it is important that primary care is accessed by this population. This will help to prevent inappropriate attendance in emergency departments and promote seeking help before serious illness ensues. 
Primary care should provide compassionate and non-judgemental care to encourage a trusting relationship and promote
health-seeking behaviour.

In this first of a two-part series exploring leadership in general practice, Jaqui Walker, general practice nurse/advanced nurse practitioner, Falkirk, Scotland, looks at the context for leadership in general practice nursing, our role as leaders, and perceived barriers to nurses fully utilising their leadership potential in the general practice setting. Part two will explore why we should lead, who can lead, leadership styles and behaviours for ANP/GPNs and how to develop leaders.

Despite the widespread reported health benefits associated with increased physical activity (PA) and exercise, in reality, a large percentage of adults and children in the UK today are inactive and levels of obesity and life-threatening conditions associated with sedentary and unhealthy lifestyles are increasing (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence [NICE], 2015). Chronic diseases are on the increase, including diabetes, hypertension, bone and joint diseases, cancer and depression, and are affecting both the young and old. Regular PA can guard against these life-changing conditions (Public Health England [PHE], 2014). General practice nurses (GPNs) are ideally placed to advise patients about the benefits of PA. This article provides an overview of recommendations and any safety aspects, current fitness terminology, as well as the importance of exploring patient perspectives in terms of perceived barriers to PA.