Measles threat: a call to action

Measles is an extremely contagious viral disease than can lead to serious complications and in some cases death. It is especially dangerous in infants and children under five, pregnant women and those who are immunocompromised. Measles, once on the brink of eradication, has made a troubling comeback in recent years. Despite the availability of a reliable and […]
Navigating the New Year’s Resolution Maze: A Prescription for Success in Professional Development

Happy New Year from Health Academy! As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, we often find ourselves filled with optimism and determination, ready to embrace a fresh start. For nurses and pharmacists in the UK, the new year offers a unique opportunity to embark on a transformative learning and clinical professional development journey. […]
Medication administration errors: consequences of improper training

In a recent and concerning case, a registered nurse practicing as a band 5 community nurse, referred to as Nurse X, faced severe consequences as they were struck off the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) register due to a series of medication administration errors and professional misconduct. Nurse X faced a a multitude of charges, […]
Raising awareness of Mental Health challenges during the festive period

Our mental health is as important as our physical health in our daily lives. The state of our mental health influences everything – from our thoughts, actions and emotions. It can affect our relationships, our work, and even our physical health – but so many of us are uncomfortable talking about it and managing it, […]
Let’s be merry and mindful: raising awareness of increased drug and alcohol intake

The festive season is often a time of joy and celebration, however amongst the merriments, there can, unfortunately, also be an increase in drug and alcohol intake. As healthcare professionals, we are all too familiar with the challenges posed by drug and alcohol misuse. Employers also should have an awareness of the impact that increased […]
STIs: The gift no one wants this festive season

As the festive season nears, increased socialisation, alcohol consumption and lowered inhibitions can often lead to people undertaking more risky behaviours. In particular the importance of safe sex practices during this time can often be overlooked with a lack of awareness and consequences contributing to the increase in unprotected sexual encounters and rise in sexually […]
Recommendations for a universal varicella vaccine programme in the UK

The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has proposed the implementation of a universal chickenpox (varicella) vaccination programme within the routine childhood schedule in the UK. They have suggested using a two-dose schedule, using the combined MMRV (measles, mumps, rubella and varicella) vaccine administered at 12 and 18 months of age. This recommendation stems […]
Cervical cancer prevention: what more can we do?

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer. In the UK, proactive measures have been implemented to reduce the impact of cervical cancer through cervical screening programmes and the introduction of the national Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programme. This has been shown to be a true game-changer, significantly reducing the […]
RSV vaccines: what’s the latest?

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common virus that can affect people of all ages. It is particularly serious in infants and the elderly, leading to severe respiratory infections and is a major cause of hospitalisations in these age groups. In June 2023, the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) recommended an immunisation programme […]
AED Training: Restart a heart, why every second counts

Sudden cardiac arrest is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate intervention. When someone experiences sudden cardiac arrest, every second counts. While Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is crucial in maintaining blood flow to vital organs, it alone cannot restore abnormal heart rhythm. In such critical situations, having access to an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and knowing how […]