There is an unmet need for contraception in the UK. Providing women with up-to-date information on contraceptive choices is essential to reduce unplanned pregnancies. There is a wide choice, including short-, medium- and longterm options. No method is 100% effective, with some relying on the user (e.g. pills) and others working largely independently of the user (e.g. subdermal implant). Many methods have side-effects or pose health risks to certain subpopulations of women. General practice nurses (GPNs) should be allowed to make an informed choice while also undertaking a risk assessment of each individual. This article provides an update on current practice regarding contraceptive choice, including emergency contraception, as well as the efficacy, acceptability, methods of delivery, side-effects and health risks of the different methods available.
Here, Ellen Nicholson, course director/lecturer, School of Health and Social Care, London South Bank University, explores what the plan means for general practice nurses (GPNs) and how this key document will affect their role in general practice.
We are delighted to share the latest news in the world of Education for Health, and present opportunities for you to get involved with us as a student, trainer or partner. We recently celebrated with a new batch of Education for Health graduates and we look forward to welcoming more in the future — maybe you’ll be among them!
In each issue of the Journal of General Practice Nursing, we investigate a topic currently affecting our readers. Here, Jeanette Richards, specialist nurse (sexual health), Brook Square Surgery, Scarborough looks at why...
Carol Stonham, MBE, explains how general practice nurses can use the NHS Long Term Plan to improve respiratory care
While skin conditions involve significant physical discomfort, their psychological impact can often go unseen
Significance of recent NICE guidance for diabetic foot and venous leg ulcers
Foot health campaign aims to bring allied health professions closer together and improve patient outcomes
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