The trained nurse in general practice

Medical receptionists in general practice: Who needs a nurse?

“…In contrast to the UK and North America, there have been far fewer publications relating to the role of nursing in general medical practices in Australia. Of those that have been published, 35–43 one documented that the identification of a staff member as a ‘practice nurse’ for research purposes was a grey area. 41 This was because some practices employed an individual as a receptionist who ‘used to be a nurse’ but was no longer registered, while others employed an EN as a receptionist to undertake both reception and clinical duties.…”

Evolution of practice nursing in Australia

“…Practice nurse had positive effect on the health, morbidity and lifestyle of this population Linn et al (1985Linn et al ( , 1990 Audit of practice nurses' management during 426 consecutive home visits to 80 elderly patients South Australia Practice nurses were able to provide regular assessments of physical, functional and social status; practical assistance in activities of daily living; injections and wound dressings; early detection of medical and/or social deterioration and prevention of further loss of independence Dunt et al (1991) Survey of job characteristics of 689 randomly selected nurses working outside hospitals and nursing homes -included 132 medical clinic nurses (MCNs) -specialist and general…”

“…This situation parallels trends internationally as healthcare systems grapple with issues such as workforce shortages, the burden of chronic disease and access issues (Glasgow et al 2005, Sibbald 2003). An emergent body of descriptive, exploratory investigation has been published in relation to practice nurse demographics, role characteristics and consumer perceptions in the Australian setting (Appleby et al 1999, Armstrong 2001, Australian Divisions of General Practice 2001, Cheek et al 2002, Bonawit & Watson 1996, Halcomb et al 2004a, Le Sueur & Barnard 1993, Linn et al 1985, Lockwood & Maguire 2000, Vincent et al 2001, Whitecross 1999, Willis et al 1998, Patterson 2000, Patterson et al 1999a,b, Patterson & McMurray 2003, Watts et al 2004). In addition, two national conferences, under the mantle of the Royal College of Nursing Australia, have been held to disseminate current research and debate professional, workforce and clinical issues.…”

Evolution of practice nursing in Australia

“…2002, Bonawit & Watson 1996, Halcomb et al. 2004a, Le Sueur & Barnard 1993, Linn et al. 1985, Lockwood & Maguire 2000, Vincent et al.…”